HVP Security Shutters Ltd

We have fitted our FlexiGlide sliding folding shutters at Exeter University on a couple of occasions, but this project was for the main campus.Utilising our Barrier style FlexiGlide shutter and working with both the Architect and the University, we believe that the shutter completely suits the modern campus area and bar.The FlexiGlide Barrier is multi purpose shutter that's secure and yet open enough to allow air to circulate through. We installed it at a food servery on the university campus.Other security shutter projects at the University of ExeterWe have also worked with Exeter University on their maths campus as well as fitting multiple roller shutters at the University.About the University of ExeterThe University of Exeter is a public research university located in the city of Exeter. It was founded in 1955 and has since grown to become one of the top universities in the UK, consistently ranking in the top 15 in national league tables.The university has three campuses in Exeter and one in Cornwall, and a total student population of around 26,000. It offers a range of student support services and has a strong focus on student well-being, with a range of facilities and initiatives to support the physical and mental health of its students.About the Streatham campusWe installed our sliding shutters at the Streatham Campus, which is the largest campus of the university. It’s such an intersting place to work with its mix of modern and historic buildings.The architecture on campus is very diverse and spans several centuries. Some of the buildings date back to the 19th century, while others are modern and purpose-built.

When the University of Birmingham refurbished Shackleton Melt restaurant, café, coffee shop and recreation centre, they needed to be able to close off the kitchen, as well as the product fridges and counter area, so the space could still be used out of hours.The University needed to be able to give the students access to the lounge and recreation areas, whilst being able to secure the product areas.A combination of roller shutters and sliding shuttersFor this project a combination of roller shutters and sliding shutters was needed. Both are security shutters, but the fundamental difference is that rolling shutters open and close vertically, while sliding shutters operate horizontally.Roller shutters are generally used to secure rectangular openings such as windows and doors. Sliding shutters on the other hand tend to be used for openings where a roller shutter doesn't really make sense, such as very wide openings, or curved openings.Vision Guard sliding curved shutter in whiteAlong with roller shutters we supplied and installed our FlexiGlide Vision Guard sliding, curved shutter in white. The shutter gives full access whilst the area is open, but secures the curved area when closed. Because FlexiGlide shutters hang from a top-track that can be bent to follow almost any curve, our Vision Guard was the perfect product.

FlexiGlide sliding shutters are usually an ideal choice for securing the entrances to shops and restaurants in shopping centres. These openings are generally high and wide to give a beautiful sense of open space and be as inviting as possible to shoppers.In modern shopping centres the entrances to shops are also often gently curved. This makes a for a very elegant opening into the shop, but also one that's difficult to secure with a traditional roller shutter.FlexiGlide sliding shutters for Slim Chickens restaurantsAs Slim Chickens expand its restaurants across the UK, they have opened in a couple of shopping centres that specify our FlexiGlide sliding shutters.Reasons for FlexiGlide sliding shuttersA sliding shutter can be an excellent choice to secure a wide and high restaurant entrance for several reasons:FlexiGlide shutters can span any width, so a wide opening is no problemOur sliding shutters have a low top-track (under 2 inches high), so the entrance can keep its inviting lookFlexiGlide shutters lock into the floor using unobtrusive floor-sockets. Their beveled surfaces are raised only 2mm from the floor and provide no trip-hazard.They are perfectly suited for curved entrances, because the shutters can follow almost any curveFlexiGlide shutters are lightweightOur shutters operate without electricity, so they are easy to install and maintainSlim Chickens used the FlexiGlide Vision Guard sliding shutter in black at the Arndale Centre in Manchester, as well as at their Cribbs Causeway restaurant in Bristol.We worked with two different fit out companies to get the shutters installed on time ready for opening. There was a strict deadline and only a minimal amount of time allowed for the fit outs. But we love a little challenge and achieved installation of the shutters with a couple of days to spare.We enjoyed working on the project and are happy with the elegant result. The black Vision Guard shutters look very professional alongside the red and black branding of Slim Chickens.

Choosing the perfect roller shutter for your commercial property or retail store is a strategic decision that impacts security, visibility, and even brand image. It’s a common dilemma: how do you balance robust protection with the desire to showcase your products or maintain an inviting presence? This comprehensive guide from HVP Security Shutters delves into the core differences between solid, perforated, and punched roller shutters, outlining the pros and cons of different slat types, exploring the critical trade-off between security versus visibility, and helping you weigh price versus look to find the ideal solution for your business in the UK.The Core Dilemma: Security, Visibility & AestheticsEvery business owner wants to prevent theft and vandalism, but many also rely on their window displays to attract customers, even after closing hours. This creates a fundamental choice when selecting shop front security shutters. Do you prioritize maximum concealment and impregnable burglary resistance, or do you need a solution that allows light in and products to be seen, even when your premises are secured? Understanding the nuances of each roller shutter type is key to making an informed decision.Deep Dive into Slat Types: Pros & ConsThe shutter curtain is made up of individual slats, and their design dictates the shutter's core characteristics.1. Solid Roller ShuttersDescription: Composed of fully interlocking, opaque steel roller shutters or aluminium roller shutters, forming a completely solid barrier when closed.Pros:Maximum Security: Offers the highest level of theft deterrence and vandalism protection, making forced entry extremely difficult.Full Privacy: Completely conceals the interior, preventing any view of goods or activities inside.Excellent Weather Protection: Provides superior defence against wind, rain, and debris.Noise Reduction: Can offer good acoustic insulation.Cons:No Visibility: Blocks natural light and views, making premises appear completely closed.Aesthetic Impact: Can look imposing or unwelcoming when lowered.Ideal For: High-risk businesses, warehouses, industrial units, pharmacies, or any property where absolute overnight security and concealment are the top priorities.2. Punched Roller ShuttersDescription: Features a pattern of small, uniformly spaced holes punched into solid slats, typically made from aluminium roller shutters or steel roller shutters.Pros:Good Security with Partial Visibility: Offers strong physical security while allowing a glimpse of interior displays and some light penetration.Ventilation: The perforations allow for a degree of airflow.Visual Appeal: Can offer a modern, clean aesthetic.Cons:Slightly Less Secure than Solid: While highly resistant, the perforations theoretically offer minute points for compromise compared to a seamless solid slat.Limited Visibility: The view through the perforations is restricted and can appear blurry from a distance.Ideal For: Retailers who want a balance of shop front security and discreet product visibility, or for applications where some light and airflow are desired (e.g., car parks, internal partitions).3. Perforated Roller ShuttersDescription: Similar to punched shutters, but with a significantly higher percentage of the surface area perforated with larger or more numerous holes, creating a more open pattern.Pros:Strong Security with Significant Visibility: Provides robust physical security while maximising the view of interior displays.Excellent Light Transmission: Allows a substantial amount of natural light into the premises, even when secured.Modern Aesthetic: Offers a contemporary and open feel, popular for modern retail designs.Cons:Not as Opaque as Solid: Doesn't offer full concealment or privacy.Potentially Higher Cost: The manufacturing process for the intricate perforations can sometimes be more involved.Ideal For: Showrooms, fashion boutiques, jewellers, and any business that relies heavily on visual merchandising and wants to attract customers with 24/7 product displays.(Also Consider) Transparent / Polycarbonate Shutters & Roller GrillesWhile the above three are the core slat types, it's worth noting other options for specific visibility needs:Transparent Shutters: Made from strong polycarbonate links, offering maximum visibility (virtually clear) with high security. Often seen in high-end retail.Roller Grilles: (e.g., the HVP Armourshield) An open, lattice-style design from steel or aluminium, providing very high visibility and strong deterrence, ideal for bars, reception counters, or shopfronts behind glazing.The Security vs. Visibility BalanceThe choice ultimately boils down to your primary need:Maximum Security & Concealment: Opt for solid roller shutters.Good Security with Discreet Visibility: Choose punched roller shutters.Strong Security with High Visibility: Select perforated roller shutters or roller grilles.Consider the value of the goods you're protecting, the level of crime in your area, and how important your window displays are to your business model.Price vs. Look: Budgeting for Your Business's ImageThe "look" of your shutter, determined by its type, material (e.g., aluminium roller shutters often offer a sleeker finish than galvanised steel), and any custom colours or finishes, will have an impact on the price of roller shutters.Generally, solid steel roller shutters might be more economical for sheer robust security, while perforated aluminium or specialist transparent polycarbonate shutters can be at the higher end due to manufacturing complexity and aesthetic appeal.However, consider the long-term value. A shutter that enhances your brand image and attracts customers, even when closed, can justify a higher initial investment through increased foot traffic and sales. Balancing your budget with your desired aesthetic and security level is key. Making the right choice for your commercial roller shutter involves careful consideration of your business's specific needs for security versus visibility and weighing the value of price versus look. A professional roller shutter supplier can conduct a site survey and provide tailored advice to ensure you select the perfect solution that protects your business while enhancing its appeal.

In the UK, especially in exposed coastal areas or flat, open landscapes, wind loading is a critical factor often overlooked when selecting roller shutters and security shutters. This article will explain what wind loading means for your commercial, industrial, or domestic roller shutters, why it's so important, and how choosing the right shutter design ensures durability and safety against the strongest gusts. We'll delve into the standards, the risks of inadequate wind resistance, and what you need to consider for robust weather protection.What is Wind Loading and Why Does It Matter for Shutters?Wind loading refers to the pressure exerted by wind on a structure. For roller shutters, this means the force applied across the entire surface of the shutter curtain when wind blows against it. The stronger the wind, the greater the pressure, and thus, the higher the wind load.Why is this crucial for your shutters?Structural Integrity: If a shutter isn't designed to withstand the local wind loads, its slats can bend or buckle, the guides can distort, or the fixing points can fail, leading to significant damage.Security Compromise: A damaged shutter is a compromised security barrier. It can leave your property vulnerable to forced entry or further weather damage.Safety Risk: A failing shutter can become a dangerous hazard, with parts detaching or the entire unit collapsing, posing a risk to people and property.Longevity & Cost: Investing in a shutter with appropriate wind resistance means a longer lifespan, fewer repairs, and better value for money in the long run.In the UK, buildings and their components, including security shutters, must comply with Building Regulations which consider wind loads derived from BS EN 1991-1-4 (Eurocode 1: Actions on structures – General actions – Wind actions). Reputable roller shutter manufacturers like HVP Security Shutters design and test their products to meet these stringent requirements.Factors Influencing Wind Loading & Shutter PerformanceSeveral elements dictate the wind load a shutter will experience and its ability to withstand it:Location:Coastal Areas: High wind speeds are common.Open Terrain: Less obstruction means higher wind forces.Building Height: Wind speeds generally increase with height.Building Shape & Surroundings: Corners of buildings or areas between structures can create wind funnelling effects, significantly increasing localized pressure.Shutter Size: Larger shutters have a greater surface area, meaning they are exposed to higher overall wind forces.Slat Profile & Material: Steel Shutters: Generally stronger and heavier, offering excellent wind resistance.Aluminium Shutters: Lighter, but robust profiles with increased thickness or double-skinned, insulated designs can also provide high wind resistance.Slat Curvature & Interlocking: Specific slat designs can improve their ability to resist deflection under pressure.Guide Rails & Fixings: The strength and depth of the shutter guides, along with the quality and number of fixings into the building structure, are paramount. Even the strongest curtain will fail if its anchoring points are weak.How Shutters are Tested and Classified for Wind ResistanceRoller shutters and security grilles undergo rigorous testing to determine their wind resistance. This often involves subjecting them to differential air pressures in a test chamber. The results classify shutters into different wind resistance classes, typically ranging from Class 0 to Class 5 according to BS EN 12424 (Industrial, commercial and garage doors and gates - Resistance to wind load).Ensuring Your Shutters Withstand the ElementsWhen procuring roller shutters or security shutters for your property in the Southwest UK, always discuss wind loading requirements with your supplier. A reputable UK roller shutter manufacturer and installer will:Conduct a thorough site survey: This assesses the specific wind exposure of your building's location.Recommend appropriate shutter specifications: Based on the survey, they will advise on the correct slat profile, material, guide depth, and fixing methods to meet or exceed local building regulations and expected wind loads.Provide relevant documentation: Ensure your chosen shutter is tested and certified to the relevant EN standards for wind resistance.Don't compromise on durability when it comes to external security shutters. Understanding and specifying for wind loading is vital for the long-term safety, security, and performance of your investment.Have a Question? Talk to Our Shutter Specialists

The Glasgow and Clyde NHS Trust has recently undergone a significant refurbishment of all its hospitals and GP surgeries. As part of this project, the Trust required new security shutters for its reception areas.FlexiGlide were asked to supply and fit the shutters, and we had just the product for the job: the Flexiglide classic chainlink folding shutter. Our crisp white, chain-link sliding shutters are both practical and aesthetically pleasing, making them the perfect choice for this project.Flexiglide sliding shutters: an excellent solution for security of reception areas.Our Flexiglide Sliding Shutters are an ideal solution for reception areas. In this project they provide cost-effective protection to the Trust's desk areas while blending seamlessly with the surroundings. We were able to fit both dual-height and curved desktop shutters, ensuring that the shutters met the NHS' specific needs.Practicality and aestheticsWe understand the importance of both practicality and aesthetics in architecture and interior design. We believe our sliding shutters fulfill both of these needs.FlexiGlide sliding shutters are practical, as they provide quick and easy access to the desk area while also ensuring security. Additionally, the chain-link design allows for ample airflow and light, creating a welcoming and comfortable reception area for staff and visitors alike.Why reception desk security is importantA reception desk is often the first point of contact for visitors to a building, and it's important to ensure the safety and security of the staff working there as well as any sensitive information or valuables stored in the area. One way to improve reception desk security is by installing a sliding security shutter.A sliding security shutter can be quickly and easily closed to provide a physical barrier between the reception desk and the public areas of the building. This can prevent unauthorized access, protect valuable items such as computers or cash registers, and provide an added layer of security for staff members working at the reception desk.In addition to providing physical security, a sliding security shutter can also be designed to match the aesthetic of the reception area. This means that the shutter can blend seamlessly into the overall design of the space, without detracting from its appearance.Overall, a sliding security shutter can be an effective way to improve reception desk security without sacrificing aesthetics.

As part of the comprehensive refurbishment of the Camden Art Centre and gallery, a notable addition was the installation of Flexiglide's Vision Air perforated security shutters.These shutters, finished in white, were selected to address the unique spatial constraints present within the facility.About Camden Art Centre Renovation and ExpansionThe Camden Art Centre, located in London, is well-known for its innovative contemporary art exhibitions and educational programs. The building housing the centre has a rich history. It was originally built in the late 19th century as a public library and later served as a school before being converted into an arts center in the late 1960s.Modernising the facilitiesIn recent years, the Camden Art Centre underwent a significant renovation and expansion project. The renovation aimed to modernise the facilities, enhance the visitor experience, and provide more space for exhibitions and educational activities.The project involved architectural updates and improvements to the building's infrastructure while preserving its historic character.New gallery spacesAn important part of the renovation was the addition of new gallery spaces, allowing Camden Art Centre to accommodate larger exhibitions and a greater variety of artistic works.The renovation also included upgrades to the center's amenities, such as improved accessibility features, expanded cafe and retail areas, and upgraded facilities for workshops and events.Sliding Security Shutters to address the building's unique spatial constraintsAs part of the art centre refurbishment we installed a set of FlexiGlide Vision Air perforated security shutters. These shutters, finished in white, were selected to address the unique spatial constraints present within the facility.Limited headspaceThe decision to use Flexiglide's Vision Air shutters was driven by the need for a security solution that could operate effectively within limited headspace.Unlike traditional roller shutters, the Flexiglide system can function optimally in spaces where overhead clearance is restricted. This was particularly pertinent in the case of Camden Arts Centre, where conventional roller shutters were not feasible due to the absence of sufficient overhead space.An ideal fitThe Vision Air Sliding Shutter, characterized by its 50mm top track, proved to be an ideal fit for the limitations encountered at Camden Art Centre. This design feature enabled the shutters to operate smoothly and efficiently within the confined space available, ensuring seamless functionality without compromising on security.