Roller Garage Door FAQs - Essex
How do roller garage doors work?
A roller garage door consists of horizontal aluminium slats that interlock to form a curtain. When you press the remote control, an electric motor winds the curtain up into a compact top box mounted above the opening. When closing, the motor unwinds the curtain smoothly down the guide runners on each side. A safety edge on the bottom of the curtain detects obstructions and reverses the door automatically.
Do Rollrite cover all of Essex for roller garage door installation?
Yes, Rollrite supply and install roller garage doors across the whole of Essex and into parts of Suffolk, Hertfordshire and east London. Based in Sible Hedingham near Halstead, the team travel to towns from Southend-on-Sea in the south to Saffron Walden in the north, and from Harlow in the west to Clacton-on-Sea on the coast. Surveys and installations are carried out regularly across all areas.
How long does it take to install a roller garage door?
Most roller garage door installations are completed in a single visit, typically within half a day. This includes removing any existing door if needed, fitting the new roller door and guide runners, mounting the motor and control unit, programming the remote controls and running all safety checks. Larger or more complex installations may take a full day.
What is the difference between 55mm and 77mm roller garage doors?
The numbers refer to the slat profile thickness. The 55mm slat uses high-density 12.5mm insulated aluminium and is ideal for single garages up to around 3 metres wide. The 77mm slat is thicker at 18mm and stronger, making it suitable for wider openings up to 5 metres, including double garages. Both profiles are foam-filled for insulation and include electric operation with remote control as standard.
Do I need planning permission for a roller garage door in Essex?
In most cases, replacing an existing garage door with a roller garage door falls under permitted development and does not require planning permission. If your property is listed or located in a conservation area, you should check with your local planning authority before proceeding. Rollrite can advise on this during the free survey.
Are roller garage doors secure?
Yes, roller garage doors are one of the most secure types of garage door available. The interlocking aluminium slats are difficult to force apart, and the guide runners prevent the curtain from being levered out from the sides. All Rollrite doors include an automatic locking mechanism that engages when the door is fully closed. There is no external handle or lock to pick.
Can a roller garage door be fitted to any garage?
Roller garage doors can be fitted to most standard garage openings. They require approximately 75mm of clear space on each side for the guide runners and between 205mm and 300mm of headroom above the opening for the top box. Because the curtain rolls into a compact box rather than sliding along ceiling tracks, they are ideal for garages with limited headroom or where you want to retain full ceiling space.
Do roller garage doors need maintenance?
Roller garage doors require very little maintenance compared to other door types. It is good practice to wipe down the slats and guide runners a couple of times a year to remove dirt and debris. Lubricating the guide runners with a silicone-based spray once or twice a year helps keep the door running smoothly. If you notice any issues with the motor or the door is not running true, Rollrite offer servicing and adjustments.
Are roller garage doors insulated?
All Rollrite roller garage doors use foam-filled aluminium slats that provide a layer of thermal insulation. This helps reduce heat loss through the garage opening, keeping the garage warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Insulated doors are particularly beneficial if your garage is attached to the house, used as a workshop, or if you store temperature-sensitive items inside.
What guarantee do Rollrite offer on roller garage doors?
Rollrite provide a manufacturer warranty on all roller garage doors, covering the door curtain, motor and operating mechanism. The exact warranty period depends on the package and motor chosen. Because Rollrite are a local Essex business, aftercare and warranty support is handled directly rather than through a third party. If you have an issue, you deal with the same team that installed the door.
Can I get a roller garage door with a manual override?
Yes, every electric roller garage door installed by Rollrite includes a manual override as standard. This allows you to open and close the door by hand during a power cut. The override is operated using a simple winding handle or emergency release, depending on the motor model fitted. This means you are never locked out of your garage if the electricity goes off.
Do Rollrite remove the old garage door?
Yes, Rollrite remove and dispose of the existing garage door as part of the installation. This includes taking down the old door, removing any tracks, springs or fittings, and leaving the opening clean and ready for the new roller door. The cost of removal is included in the installation price, so there are no hidden extras.
What colours are available for roller garage doors?
Rollrite offer 14 colours for roller garage doors: White, Black, Anthracite, Slate Grey, Ivory, Bordeaux, Dark Blue, Moss Green, Fir Green, Agate Grey, Light Brown, Dark Brown, Golden Oak and Chartwell. Woodgrain finishes are also available. Colour options may vary slightly between slat profiles, so the best approach is to discuss your preference during the free survey.
How do I book a free survey with Rollrite?
You can book a free survey by calling Rollrite on 01376 800 750 or by filling in the contact form on the website. A member of the team will arrange a convenient time to visit your property, take measurements and discuss your requirements. You will then receive a fixed written quote with no obligation. There is no charge for the survey or the quote. You can also get an instant quote using our cost calculator.