how to fix a jammed roller shutter

Roller shutters are fantastic when they work smoothly, offering safety, insulation, and peace of mind. But if it is jammed, it becomes a serious security and operational issue, especially for London shops, warehouses, car parks, and homes; moreover, a jammed shutter can bring your day to a complete halt. At UK Roller Shutter, we have helped thousands of businesses and homeowners across London to get their shutters back in action fast. However, in this blog, we will guide you through what to do if your roller shutter is jammed, possible causes, and how our expert team can fix it quickly and affordably. 

Common Reasons Your Roller Shutter Might Be Jammed

Understanding the root of the issue is helpful before attempting to solve it. In most cases, jammed roller shutters result from:

  1. Power failure – Electric shutters can stop working if there’s a local power cut or wiring issue.
  2. Damaged motor – The shutter motor may burn out or wear down over time.
  3. Obstruction in the track – Dirt, small debris, or even rust can block the path.
  4. Misaligned or bent tracks – This is especially common with older shutters or after forceful handling.
  5. Broken springs or slats – If you hear a grinding sound, chances are something is loose or broken inside.

What to Do First Before Calling a Professional

If your roller shutter has suddenly jammed, don’t panic. However, follow these quick checks:

a. Check the Power Supply

If you have an electric shutter, make sure the power is still on. Moreover, try another appliance on the same socket to rule out electrical issues.

b. Switch to Manual Mode (If Available)

Many shutters have a manual override. Afterwards, this is handy during power failures or emergencies. So, check your shutter manual for details.

c. Inspect the Tracks

Take a quick look at the side tracks. If you see any visible blockages, gently clear them using a cloth or soft brush. Don’t force it!

d. Don’t Push or Pull

It’s tempting to try and yank it open or closed, but this can cause further damage. On the other hand, if it won’t move, it needs expert attention.

Why You Need a Professional Roller Shutter Repair Service

Roller shutters are precision-built systems. However, trying to fix a jammed roller shutter yourself without the right tools or knowledge can be dangerous. Call the pros—they offer the safest and most reliable solution:

  • We work quickly and safely – Our team at UK Roller Shutter arrives fully equipped with the tools and replacement parts needed for the job.
  • We identify the root cause – Whether it’s a worn-out motor, a sensor fault, or track misalignment, we don’t just patch the issue — we fix it for the long run.
  • We cover all of London – Based in London, we offer same-day emergency roller shutter repairs across all boroughs.
  • Transparent pricing – No hidden charges. No surprises. Just honest service.

Emergency Roller Shutter Repair in London? Call Us 24/7

Is your roller shutter jammed outside business hours? We know how critical security is, especially in high-traffic or high-risk areas. That’s why UK Roller Shutter offers 24/7 emergency repair services across London. Whether your shutter gets stuck at midnight or on a busy Saturday morning, we’ll be there.

Avoid Jams in the Future

Here’s what we recommend to avoid roller shutter jamming in the future:

  • Annual servicing for commercial shutters
  • Bi-annual inspections for high-usage shutters
  • Lubrication and alignment checks
  • Motor health monitoring

For this reason, our maintenance packages are affordable and customised to suit your usage and shutter type.

Why Choose UK Roller Shutter?

Here’s what makes us the top choice in London:

  • Fast response time
  • Fully qualified engineers
  • Experience with all types of roller shutters, e.g. manual, electric, industrial, shopfront
  • Competitive pricing
  • Outstanding customer service

In addition to replacing shutters, we also assist London homes and businesses in maintaining their safety, security, and tranquillity.

Concluding Remarks!

Lastly, even though a jammed roller shutter is annoying, your day doesn’t have to be ruined. UK Roller Shutter can assist with both minor repairs and major replacements. But our knowledgeable engineers are only a phone call away, and we take pride in being among London’s most reputable roller shutter repair companies.