Fire Shutters Buyers Guide

Fire Shutters Buyers Guide

Fire Shutters For Domestic, Commercial, and Industrial Applications
 


🔍 Product Overview

Fire shutters are specialist roller shutters designed to compartmentalise fire, protecting escape routes and limiting fire spread. Unlike traditional shutters, fire-rated shutters are tested and certified to withstand fire for a set period (e.g., 60, 120, or 240 minutes).  Fire shutters are not tested for the spread of Smoke, if you need Smoke see our Fire and Smoke Curtains..

There are two main types:

  • Compact Fire Shutters – ideal for domestic or small-scale commercial use where aesthetics and space-saving are important.
  • Industrial Fire Shutters – built for heavy-duty protection in warehouses, factories, or larger commercial environments.
     

✅ Key Features & Benefits

FeatureCompact Fire ShutterIndustrial Fire Shutter
Fire RatingUp to 4 hours (240 mins)Up to 4 hours (240 mins)
Curtain MaterialSingle skin 76mm steel lathSingle skin 76mm steel lath
Guide ChannelsSlimline for space savingHeavier duty steel guides
Motor TypeTubular motor (concealed in barrel)Inline Industrial motor (Inside of Endplates)
Finish OptionsGalvanised or RAL powder-coatedGalvanised or RAL powder-coated
ControlsSingle phase with battery back-up3-phase or single-phase with fire panel integration
CertificationTested to BS EN 16034 and BS 476Certifire and CE marked (where applicable)

 


🏢 Solid vs Flexible Structures – What You Need to Know

Solid Structures:

  • Include walls made of brick, concrete, blockwork, or structural steel.
  • These are structurally rigid and suitable for direct fixing of the shutter guides and motor brackets.
  • Fire shutters mounted on solid structures do not typically require additional reinforcements.

Flexible Structures:

  • Include timber stud walls.
  • Require a Solid Timber frame using C16 Timbers tied into something structural top and bottom.  Timbers must be 100mm Wide and 75mm Deep.
  • Essential for achieving fire certification, as the supporting structure must also meet fire integrity standards.

 


🏆 Best Use Cases

Compact Fire Shutter

  • Kitchen serveries in schools, hospitals
  • Reception counters in offices
  • Cafés or food prep areas
  • Residential fire compartments

Industrial Fire Shutter

  • Warehouses and factories
  • Car parks and storage units
  • Retail centres and loading bays
  • Large compartment zones in commercial premises
     

📐 Technical Considerations

  • Max Size (Compact): ~4m wide x 3m high
  • Max Size (Industrial): Up to 7m wide x 5m high (larger on request)
  • Mounting: Face fix (on the wall) or reveal fix (within the opening)
  • Power: 240V single phase or 415V 3-phase (Industrial)
  • Compliance: BS EN 16034:2014 and BS 476 Part 22 standards

     

🎨 Finishes & Customisation

Both shutters are available in:

  • Standard Galvanised Steel
  • Powder-Coated Finishes in any standard RAL colour
     

🔧 Controls

Compact Fire Shutter – Standard Controls

  • Battery Backup Unit: Ensures the shutter closes safely in a fire, even during a power failure.
  • Fire Alarm Relay: Allows integration with your building’s fire alarm system—shutter deploys automatically when an alarm is triggered.
  • Manual Override: Allows for safe, manual operation in the event of motor failure.

Compact Fire Shutter – Additional Control Options

  • Audio Visual Warning Panel: Emits sound and light signals to alert building occupants before the shutter descends.
  • Emergency Escape Button: Enables quick egress through the shutter during an emergency, depending on layout and regulations.

Industrial Fire Shutter – Standard Controls

  • Solenoid Release: Linked directly to the fire alarm and/or a fusible link; activates shutter descent on fire detection or heat trigger.
  • Chain Override: A manual chain system attached to the motor, allowing the shutter to be opened or closed during power outages.

Industrial Fire Shutter – Additional Control Options

  • Audio Visual Warning Devices: Essential for larger or high-traffic areas to warn staff and visitors prior to shutter operation.

📌 Note: All fire shutters must be commissioned and tested post-installation to ensure full compliance with fire safety regulations.

 


🛠 Installation Options

  • DIY Installation: Only recommended for experienced tradespeople or low-risk domestic installs.
  • Professional Installation: Strongly advised for industrial settings, fire certification compliance, and integration with alarms/systems.
     

🕒 Lead Times:

Typically 3-5 weeks for manufacture and delivery. Powder coating Non Stock Colours or bespoke controls may add extra time.
 


🔧 Maintenance & Aftercare

  • Annual service required to retain fire certification.
  • Battery Back-Up systems should be tested quarterly.
  • Visual checks for motor function, curtain integrity, and control panel alerts.

📋 Pro Tip: Keep a fire shutter logbook for inspections and service records.
 


💷 Cost Considerations

Shutter TypeApproximate Cost Range (ex. VAT)
Compact Fire Shutter£1500 – £4000
Industrial Fire Shutter£1,800 – £8,000

💡 Prices vary by size, fire rating, control systems, and finish. Excludes Installation.

 

🔒 Why Choose Security Direct?

  • Over 30 years of specialist experience
  • Products independently fire tested and certified
  • UK-wide delivery and expert installation
  • Custom solutions for any structure type
  • Trusted by schools, councils, NHS, and major retailers

     

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can fire shutters be connected to my fire alarm system?
Yes, both compact and industrial shutters can be linked via relays or fire control panels.

Q: What happens to the shutter during a power cut?
Battery back-up systems allow shutters to close in an emergency, even without mains power.

Q: Are these shutters insurance approved?
Yes. Most insurance companies accept fire-rated shutters that are tested and CE marked.

Q: How often do fire shutters need servicing?
Annually, with additional checks on batteries and controls recommended quarterly.

 

📞 Contact Us Today

Looking to protect your property with certified fire shutters?  

👉 Call us on 0808 256 6159

 📩 Or Get a Free Quote Today