Aluminium or steel roller shutters?
How aluminium and steel laths compare for weight, strength, noise, corrosion and price, and where each is the better choice.
Aluminium laths are lighter, quieter and do not rust. Steel laths are heavier and harder to cut, dent or force. Both can be powder coated, insulated or perforated.
Last updated 13 October 2026 by the Security Shutters UK team
Which types of aluminium lath are there?
Roll-formed aluminium laths are two thin skins with a foam core, used on homes, garages and most offices. Extruded aluminium laths are solid profiles that are much stronger, and suit shops that want aluminium's finish with more resistance.
Where does steel make more sense?
Galvanised steel is the usual choice for industrial units, loading bays, lock-ups and higher-risk premises. It is also the base for many fire-rated and LPS 1175 rated shutters.
What about noise and wear?
Single-skin steel is noisier than foam-filled aluminium, which matters above shops with flats. Heavier curtains also put more load on motors and springs, so steel shutters are paired with stronger drives.
- Homes and garages: foam-filled aluminium
- Offices and most shops: aluminium, extruded where stronger
- Industrial and high-risk: galvanised steel
- Coastal sites: aluminium or well-protected coated steel
Sources
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules can change, so check with your council, insurer or fire risk assessor where it matters.