Aluminium vs Steel Shutters: The Complete Material Comparison Guide

When investing in security shutters for your property, choosing the right material is a crucial decision. At HVP Security Shutters, we manufacture and install both aluminium and steel shutters across the UK, drawing on over 34 years’ experience working with commercial and residential clients. This guide provides an expert, side-by-side comparison of aluminium and steel shutters—helping you make an informed choice for your project.

Aluminium Shutters: Benefits and Applications

Aluminium shutters are a popular choice for many of our clients, especially in retail, office, and residential settings. Their lightweight nature makes them easy to operate—either manually or electrically—and they offer excellent resistance to corrosion, making them ideal for coastal or humid environments.

Key advantages:

• Lightweight yet strong
• Corrosion-resistant (ideal for outdoor and coastal use)
• Modern appearance with a range of finishes and colours
• Cost-effective for most commercial and domestic applications
• Suitable for chainlink and open-style grilles (great for shopfronts needing ventilation)

Popular model: Our K25 Aluminium Roller Shutter is a versatile, cost-effective solution trusted by businesses across the South West.

Steel Shutters: Strength and Security Features

Steel shutters provide the highest levels of physical security and are often specified for industrial sites, schools, airports, and locations requiring robust protection. Their heavier construction deters forced entry and provides long-term durability under frequent use.

Key advantages:

• Exceptional strength and impact resistance
• Available with LPS 1175 security ratings for high-risk sites
• 1–4 hour fire-rated models available (BS EN 1634-1, BS EN 16034:2014)
• Suitable for large openings and high-traffic areas
• Can be integrated into building management and fire alarm systems

Popular model: The Armourshield Roller Shutter features a distinctive design and is widely used in high-security environments.

Cost Comparison: Aluminium vs Steel

The cost of your shutter system will depend on size, specification, and operation. As a general guide:

• Aluminium domestic/garage shutters: £800–£2,000+
• Standard commercial aluminium/steel: £1,500–£4,000+
• Heavy-duty industrial steel: £2,500–£8,000+
• LPS 1175 security steel: £2,500–£10,000+
• Fire-rated steel: £2,000–£6,000+

Note: 80% of our customers opt for electric operation for ease of use. All installations come with a 12-month parts & labour warranty.

Which Material is Right for Your Project?

Choose aluminium shutters if you need:

• Lightweight, corrosion-resistant security
• A modern look for retail or residential use
• A cost-effective solution for medium security

Choose steel shutters if you need:

• Maximum physical security or fire protection
• Compliance with strict safety standards (e.g., LPS 1175, fire rating)
• A robust solution for industrial, educational, or high-traffic sites

Not sure? Our expert team is happy to provide tailored advice based on your site, budget, and compliance needs.

Why Choose HVP Security Shutters?

• 34+ years’ experience: Over 12,000 shutters fitted across 9,000+ projects.
• Quality assurance: All products manufactured to ISO 9001:2015 standards.
• Certifications: Constructionline Gold, DHF member, £10,000,000 public liability insurance.
• Full documentation: Technical drawings, method statements, risk assessments, and CE marking provided as standard.
• Nationwide service: Installation and maintenance across the UK; supply-only for international clients.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact HVP Security Shutters for a free, no-obligation site survey and expert material recommendation. Call us on 01392 270 218, email info@roller-shutter.uk, or visit our Exeter showroom to see our FlexiGlide range in person.

HVP Security Shutters – Trusted by schools, airports, shopping centres, and businesses nationwide.