Roller shutter stuck halfway, heavy or off track? Learn the 7 most common causes, what you can safely check yourself and when to call a technician.
Repair in Progress
Lock Replaced
Back in ServiceMost stuck shutters are caused by dirt in the rails, a bent slat, a weak spring, a loose rail, dry bearings, a motor fault or a damaged lock. You can safely clean the rails yourself. Springs, rails and motors need a technician.
Forcing a stuck shutter turns a small repair into a big one.
Sand, dust and small stones build up inside the side rails, especially on shops facing a main road. The curtain catches on the dirt and stops running smoothly. With the shutter fully open, brush and wipe the inside of both rails. Avoid thick grease, which collects more dirt.
A knock from a vehicle, trolley or forced entry can bend one or more slats. A bent slat jams inside the rail and the shutter stops halfway. Damaged slats need replacing so the curtain runs straight again.
If your manual shutter suddenly feels very heavy, or drops quickly when you close it, the torsion spring in the barrel may be weak or broken. This is one of the most common faults on older shutters, and the spring is under high tension, so replacement must be done by a trained technician.
A bent guide rail or loose bolts can let the curtain slip out of its track. You may see one side lower than the other. Stop using the shutter until the rail is straightened or replaced.
Grinding or squeaking usually means dry or worn bearings. Light lubrication helps, but persistent noise means the bearings need replacing before they damage the barrel.
On motorized shutters, the culprit is often electrical: a burnt motor, a remote that lost its pairing or a limit switch out of adjustment. Check the power and remote battery. If the motor hums without moving, switch it off.
Finally, a damaged lock, handle or bottom bar can stop the shutter closing or locking fully. These parts can be replaced quickly.
Keep this handy.
Typical stuck-shutter repairs we have carried out.
BEFOREAFTER
Our team can free and fix a jammed curtain.
You can clean the rails and check the motor power. Anything involving springs, rails or wiring should be left to a technician.
Usually a bent slat or a dent in the rail at that height.
If it will not close and your premises are exposed, yes. Call our 24/7 line.
Send a short video of the jam and your location for quick advice.
