Blackpool Archives - UK Doors & Shutters

Over the past few weeks, the North West of the UK has seen persistent rainfall and stormy conditions, with many areas experiencing surface water and river flooding especially in parts of Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Cumbria. As local businesses respond to these conditions, it’s more important than ever to focus on flood preparedness and protecting your premises from water damage.

Flooding can be extremely disruptive for shops, cafes and retail spaces — not just because of water entering a building, but also due to damage to roller shutters, electrical systems, stock and fittings. Here’s what you need to know to protect your investment and keep trading.

Why Flooding Happens in Urban Areas

Even without rivers overflowing, heavy rainfall can overwhelm drains and surface water systems in urban environments like the North West. This can lead to flash floods that enter properties through doors, vents or low-lying entrances. The Environment Agency now issues flood alerts and warnings which can help you prepare in advance — and they’ve recently expanded this service across parts of Greater Manchester to deliver early warning messages to homes and businesses.

Practical Ways to Protect Your Roller Shutters and Shopfront

1. Check Your Flood Risk and Sign Up for Alerts

Before floods strike, make sure you know the risk level for your postcode. You can sign up for free flood warnings via GOV.UK, which will alert you by phone, text or email if flooding is expected.

2. Install Temporary Flood Barriers

Temporary flood barriers or sandbags can be deployed quickly at the first sign of rising water. These act as a first line of defence to stop water entering through roller shutters or doors — particularly useful if storms are forecast.

3. Seal Gaps Around Shutters

Small gaps between the shutter tracks and the wall can allow water to seep in. Using waterproof seals and silicone around the edges of your shutter frame can significantly reduce this risk.

4. Maintain Shutters Regularly

Ensure your roller shutters are well-maintained with regular cleaning, greasing of moving parts and rust checks. A well-serviced shutter will be more resilient in adverse conditions and less likely to jam or fail.

5. Consider Drainage Improvements

Installing small drainage solutions like trench drains or sump pumps near your shopfront can help divert water away before it reaches doorways and shutter bases.

6. Invest in Flood-Resistant Upgrades

For longer-term protection, you may want to look at flood-resistant roller shutters or water-resistant slats. Retrofitting seals and reinforcing shutter boxes can also help minimise water ingress.

Don’t Forget the Bigger Picture

Flood resilience isn’t just about roller shutters — it’s about having a plan in place for your business:

Create a business flood plan that includes how to respond during a flood, key contact numbers (e.g. your insurer, council and utilities) and procedures for protecting stock and equipment. GOV.UK has a full business flood plan checklist to help you get started.
Review your insurance cover to make sure it includes flood damage and business interruption — many standard policies exclude flooding unless specifically added.
Keep important documents and electrical items stored above ground level so they’re less likely to be damaged if water enters your premises.

Trusted Resources & Further Reading

Preparing your business for flooding – official guidance from the Environment Agency and GOV.UK, including checklists and planning tools:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/preparing-your-business-for-flooding (GOV.UK)
Adapting your home or business to the risk of flooding – UK government advice on reducing flood damage:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/adapting-your-home-or-business-to-the-risk-of-flooding (GOV.UK)
Shopfront and shutter solutions from us at UK Doors and Shutters — practical products and advice to help protect your premises:
https://www.ukdoorsandshutters.co.uk/

Heavy rain and flooding pose a real risk to businesses across the North West, but with proper planning and the right protective measures, you can greatly minimise the impact on your shopfront — particularly your roller shutters and entrance areas.

Being proactive now means less downtime, fewer repair costs and greater peace of mind when storms hit again, if you have any roller shutter problems due to flood damage speak to a member of our team today and we can help you through your insurance company to get your shutters and shopfronts back to working order.

Coastal areas present unique challenges for buildings and structures due to their proximity to the sea. The high salinity in the air can accelerate the corrosion of metals and cause significant wear and tear. For shop owners in the areas of Blackpool, Morecambe, Formby etc, choosing the right type of roller shutters is crucial to ensure longevity and security. This blog will explore the best types of roller shutters for coastal environments, how they can withstand salinity, the necessary maintenance, and common issues shop owners should be aware of.

The Best Types of Roller Shutters for Coastal Areas

Aluminum Roller Shutters

Aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion, making it an excellent choice for coastal areas. Its natural oxide layer provides protection against the salty air, and it is also lightweight, which reduces the strain on the shutter mechanism. Additionally, aluminum shutters can be powder-coated to enhance their resistance to the elements and provide a wide range of color options.

Stainless Steel Roller Shutters

Stainless steel, particularly grades like 316, is known for its superior corrosion resistance. While it is more expensive than aluminum, its durability can justify the cost, especially in harsh coastal conditions. Stainless steel shutters provide excellent security and can withstand the constant exposure to salty air without rusting.

PVC Roller Shutters

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) shutters are another good option for coastal areas. They are completely immune to corrosion and are relatively low maintenance. PVC shutters are also available in various designs and colors, offering flexibility in terms of aesthetics.

Galvanized Steel Roller Shutters

Galvanized steel shutters are coated with a layer of zinc, which provides a barrier against corrosion. While they are more susceptible to corrosion than aluminum or stainless steel, proper maintenance can extend their lifespan. They are robust and offer good security, making them a viable option if cost is a concern.

Maintenance Tips for Coastal Roller Shutters

Even with the best materials, regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity of roller shutters in coastal areas. Here are some key maintenance tips:

Regular Cleaning

Salt deposits can accumulate on the surface of the shutters, leading to corrosion. Regular cleaning with fresh water can help remove these deposits. Avoid using harsh chemicals that might damage the protective coatings.

Lubrication

The moving parts of the roller shutters, such as the hinges and rollers, should be regularly lubricated to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Use a silicone-based lubricant as it is less likely to attract dust and dirt.

Inspection

Regularly inspect the shutters for signs of wear and tear, such as rust spots, cracks, or dents. Addressing these issues early can prevent more significant problems down the line.

Re-coating

For metal shutters, re-coating them with a protective layer of paint or powder coating every few years can help protect against the harsh coastal environment.

Professional Servicing

It is advisable to have the shutters professionally serviced at least once a year. A professional can perform a thorough inspection, clean hard-to-reach areas, and make any necessary repairs.

Common Issues Faced by Shop Owners

Shop owners in coastal areas need to be aware of several potential issues with their roller shutters:

Corrosion

Despite choosing corrosion-resistant materials, the constant exposure to salty air can eventually lead to corrosion. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate this risk.

Mechanical Failure

The salty environment can lead to mechanical issues, such as jammed rollers or hinges. This can affect the functionality of the shutters and compromise the security of the premises.

Aesthetic Degradation

The combination of salt, sun, and wind can cause the shutters to look worn out faster than in non-coastal areas. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help maintain their appearance.

Higher Maintenance Costs

Due to the harsh environment, the maintenance costs for roller shutters in coastal areas can be higher. Shop owners should budget for regular maintenance and occasional repairs.

Weather-Related Damage

Coastal areas are often prone to extreme weather conditions like storms and hurricanes. Roller shutters must be robust enough to withstand these forces, and shop owners should ensure they choose shutters that meet relevant standards for wind and impact resistance.

Choosing the right roller shutters for coastal areas is crucial for ensuring security, durability, and aesthetics. Aluminum, stainless steel, PVC, and galvanized steel are among the best options due to their resistance to corrosion. However, even the best materials require regular maintenance to withstand the harsh coastal environment. By following proper maintenance practices and being aware of potential issues, shop owners can ensure their roller shutters remain functional and look good for years to come. Investing in high-quality shutters and regular servicing can save time and money in the long run, providing peace of mind in a challenging environment.