Why this happens
Inside the barrel of a manual shutter are torsion springs that carry most of the curtain's weight. Over time springs lose tension, and occasionally one snaps, so the shutter becomes much heavier. Friction from dry guides or seized bearings adds to it.
| Likely cause | Tell-tale signs |
|---|---|
| Springs lost tension | Gradually heavier over months; won't stay up |
| Snapped spring | Suddenly much heavier, sometimes after a loud bang |
| Seized bearings | Heavy and grinding |
| Dry or rusty guide rails | Heavy with scraping, worse in humid weather |
| Over-tensioned springs | Shutter flies up or is hard to pull down |
Safe checks you can do first
- Check the guides for dirt or rust.
- Note whether the shutter stays where you leave it, or drops or rises on its own.
- Listen for grinding from the barrel area.
What not to do
- Never adjust or release springs yourself. They store a lot of energy and can cause serious injury.
- Don't let a heavy shutter drop. Lower it with control or leave it.
- Don't keep using a shutter you suspect has a snapped spring.
💡 Fastest way to a fix: WhatsApp us a short video of the shutter (from a safe distance), a photo of the motor or lock area if visible, and your location. We'll usually be able to tell you the likely cause and a price range straight away.
How we fix it
Our technicians safely re-tension or replace springs, replace worn bearings and service the guides so the shutter is balanced and easy to operate again.
How much will it cost?
Spring re-tensioning or replacement starts from $250, depending on shutter size and spring type.
Note on pricing: these are starting prices. The final cost depends on the complexity of the fault, shutter size and type, parts needed and site access. A site visit is needed for an accurate quote, and the site visit is free. See the full price list.