we successfully used Sarlon roller blinds on the outside of windows...make sure the blind is held out from the window to maintain air flow We also created a screened outdoor room using black Sarlon cloth attached to frames enclosing a verandah (access through an old fashioned fly screen covered in Sarlon)...initially to keep out the sun but it also did a great job of keeping out bugs and keeping inside warmer in cold weather..the black Sarlon has the effect of looking through fly screens thus improving the view looking out and obscuring the view looking in during the day...i suggest you double check the use of double glazing in the tropics as you need to allow heat to escape overnight and a window covering would be better on the inside to keep heat in during short periods of cold weather

Thanks for your feedback. I am more worried about the heating issues in winter. With so much glazing, just wanting to know a good way to retain heat. Maybe large roller blinds would be a simple solution

Roller shutters? 🤔 Thinking about getting some for security. Anyone have recommendations or personal experiences to share? 🏡🔒

Being married to a firefighter, my first thought when you talk of putting roller shutters on external doors is the safety issue. If you needed to escape a fire during the night you would be in trouble if you had shutters down. The same issue applies to locked security doors and there has been many instances of people trapped inside due to lack of visibility and panic being unable to unlock their doors to get out.

this is a very old post and since then we have built a holiday house in a firezone and were required to install special fire rated roller shutters that we find excellent for shading (better than a verandah) and use them for security during long vacant periods ...they are supposed to be able to be disconnected from inside in an emergency and use rechargeable battery operated controls for routine operation but we still used double glazed windows for heat and sound control but teh shutters can also be installed inside new walls to look so much better than retrofitted and would happily use them again but there is a wide range of prices so shop around for what you need

Yes, external roller shutters can be installed on most sliding doors, provided there's enough space for the shutter box and side guides. They're a popular option for improving security, privacy, insulation and protection from Melbourne's weather.

For roller shutter installation Melbourne, accurate measurements are essential because sliding doors are often wider than standard windows. The shutter needs to be correctly sized and aligned to ensure smooth operation without interfering with the door.

Sunline Rollertec offers custom-made roller shutters for a range of door and window sizes, so the installation is tailored to the opening rather than using a standard fit. If you're considering shutters for a sliding door, it's worth having the opening professionally measured to ensure the best fit, reliable operation and long-term performance.