What is manual to electric conversion?
Push-up and crank shutters usually take a tube motor inside the existing barrel, sometimes with a new barrel if the old one is undersized. Chain-operated industrial doors usually take a side-mounted gear motor with a hand-chain or crank for emergencies.
A conversion needs a power supply near the box and a control point; we plan both at survey.
If the shutter is worn, a conversion may simply move the problem, so we check its condition first and tell you honestly if replacement is better value.
Which options can you choose?
- DomesticTubular motor and switch or remote for window shutters.
- ShopTube motor with key switch or remote and manual override.
- IndustrialGear motor with controls and emergency operation.
Typical specification
| Needs | sound curtain and barrel, nearby power |
|---|---|
| Adds | motor, controls and limit setting |
How much does manual to electric conversion cost?
| Manual to electric conversion | Inc VAT | Ex VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic window shutter conversion | £355 – £655 | £295 – £545 |
| Shop shutter conversion with key switch | £955 – £1,795 | £795 – £1,495 |
| Industrial door conversion with gear motor | £1,555 – £2,995 | £1,295 – £2,495 |
Guide prices, per shutter, supplied and fitted. VAT at 20% where it applies.
Every price is fixed in writing after a survey. See all roller shutter prices or use the quote tool for a guide range for your size.
What should you check before ordering?
- Power: A suitable supply is needed near the shutter box; electrical work is done to BS 7671.
- Safety devices: Converting a commercial door to powered operation means adding suitable safety devices and commissioning them.
How does the process work?
Tell us about the opening
Use the quote tool or the form: what it is for, rough sizes and a few photos if you have them.
Free survey
We measure the opening and the space around it, check fixings and power, and talk through options.
Fixed written price
You get a clear quotation with the product, controls, fitting and lead time. Nothing is ordered until you accept.
Made, fitted, handed over
The shutter is made to measure, fitted, set up and demonstrated, with the manufacturer's documents left with you.
Questions about manual to electric conversion
Can any manual shutter be made electric?
Most can, as long as the curtain, barrel and guides are in reasonable condition. Very old or damaged shutters may be better replaced.
How long does a conversion take?
Most domestic and shop conversions take a few hours once the parts are ready, plus any electrical work.
Is it worth converting rather than replacing?
If the shutter is sound, yes: a conversion costs a fraction of a new shutter.
