The Rolling Shutter Installation Process: What to Expect
Table of Contents
Most customers come to us having never had a rolling shutter installed before. They want to know: how long does it take, what do they need to have ready, and what happens if something goes wrong? Here is the complete process from first contact to finished installation.
Step 1: Site Visit
-
Free visit — no obligation
A GRS technician visits your location, takes precise measurements with a laser distance meter, assesses the lintel and structural condition above the opening, checks available hood space, and identifies any non-standard requirements (curved openings, unusual finishes, integration with existing security systems).
The site visit takes 20–40 minutes for a single opening and up to 2 hours for complex multi-opening commercial or industrial projects. We will also advise if a proposed installation is structurally inadvisable — for example, a lintel in poor condition that would require reinforcement before installation.
Step 2: Written Quotation
-
Firm written quote within 2 hours
Based on the site visit measurements, we provide a written quotation specifying: exact dimensions, material and gauge, motor model and rating (if motorised), finish type, access control components, and installation cost — broken out as line items so you know exactly what you are paying for.
This is not a vague estimate. It is the firm quote we commit to. We do not add surprise fees after installation.
For new construction projects: We can also provide an indicative quote from architectural drawings before the site is accessible, which is updated to a firm quote after the site visit.
Step 3: Fabrication
-
Made-to-measure for your site
All shutters are fabricated to the exact dimensions from your site. The curtain is roll-formed from sheet coil, side guides are cut and drilled, the spring shaft is assembled and tensioned, and the hood box is fabricated. For motorised installations, the motor is mounted, wired, and pre-tested before dispatch.
Standard fabrication time: 2–5 working days for most residential and commercial shutters. Large industrial orders or non-standard materials may require 7–14 days.
Step 4: Installation Day
-
Typically 3–6 hours for a single shutter
The installation team arrives with the pre-fabricated shutter assembly. They mount the side guides to the wall (anchor bolts into masonry), install the spring shaft and hood, drop the curtain into the guides, adjust spring tension, fit the bottom profile, and connect the motor (if motorised). The area around the opening needs to be clear and accessible.
For motorised shutters, the electrician will need access to a nearby 220V point. If you do not have one within reach of the control box location, we can advise on running a new circuit — but that is your electrician's scope, not ours.
Step 5: Handover and Testing
-
Full operational test and demonstration
Before we leave, we run the shutter through 10 full open/close cycles, set travel limits precisely, test all remote handsets, demonstrate the manual override (motorised only), confirm the lock functions correctly, and explain basic maintenance requirements. You receive a 1-year warranty card and our emergency contact number.
"Site visit to installation completion is typically 2–10 business days for standard residential or commercial shutters nationwide."
What to Have Ready Before Installation Day
- The opening must be accessible — no construction material, furniture, or vehicles blocking access
- For motorised installations: a 220V single-phase power point within 3m of the motor position
- Someone must be present to provide access and approve the completed work
- If the installation is in rented premises, have landlord consent confirmed in advance
- For high-rise or difficult-access locations: confirm whether scaffolding is needed (we will advise after the site visit)
Total Timeline
For a standard single aluminium or GI shutter:
- Day 0: You call or WhatsApp us
- Day 1: Site visit (usually next business day)
- Day 2: Written quote received
- Day 3–5: You approve the quote and pay advance (typically 50%)
- Day 5–8: Fabrication complete
- Day 6–10: Installation complete, shutter operational
Urgent timelines: For straightforward standard-size shutters, we can sometimes compress this to 48–72 hours from first contact to installation. Call to discuss if timing is critical.