Retractable security grilles for windows and doors in London

IKS Locksmiths install made-to-measure retractable security grilles for windows and doors in London, Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas. Retractable grilles are strong metal sliding shutters, crafted from high quality steel with a powder coated, weather resistant finish.

As security grilles specialists in London we recommend retractable security grilles when a property needs high security without permanently blocking natural light, ventilations or the appearance of the windows and doors. They are suitable for homes, flats, offices, shops, schools and commercial premises.

Retractable security grilles are also known as collapsible security grilles, folding security grilles, concertina security grilles, sliding security grilles or lattice gates. These terms are often used to describe the same type of side-folding security grille.

Why choose retractable security grilles?

Retractable security grilles are popular because they combine physical protection with everyday flexibility. They can be locked when security is needed and folded neatly away when the property is occupied or open to customers.

Advantages of installing retractable security grilles include:

Benefit	Why it helps
High security	Creates a strong physical barrier across vulnerable windows and doors
Natural light	Allows light into the property, especially when folded back
Discreet appearance	Can be hidden behind curtains, blinds or within the reveal
Easy everyday use	Can be opened and closed when needed
Suitable for occupied properties	Can be locked while people are inside, depending on the layout
Suitable for homes and businesses	Works for residential, retail, office and commercial settings

When are retractable grilles the right choice?

Retractable grilles are usually a good option when:

• You want to retain natural light.
• You need to secure patio doors, French doors or glazed doors.
• You want security without a permanent visual barrier.
• You need a solution that folds neatly away during the day.
• You want to secure a shop, office or home outside opening hours or overnight.
• You need a practical alternative to fixed bars or shutters.

Retractable vs fixed security grilles

When choosing between retractable and fixed security grilles installation, seeking advice from a professional installer is advisable. There are a range of practical and aesthetic factors to consider.

Feature	Retractable security grilles	Fixed security grilles
Security	Excellent when locked	Excellent permanent protection
Everyday convenience	Can be folded away when not in use	Always in position
Appearance	Discreet when open	Always visible, although they can be designed to blend with the window
Natural light	Maximum light when folded back	Light still enters, but the grille remains visible
Ventilation	Windows can often be opened while the grille is retracted (depending on the installation)	Depends on window configuration
Best suited for	Homes, patio doors, offices, retail premises and openings used regularly	Basement windows, vulnerable windows and high-risk areas
Maintenance	Low	Very low
Cost	Typically higher due to moving components	Often a more economical option

Retractable security grilles are often the preferred option where flexibility and appearance are priorites. Fixed security grilles are usually recommended for properties where a permanent physical barrier is the main requirement.

During a survey, we assess the property and explain which option is likely to provide the best balance of security, practicality and appearance.

Where can retractable security grilles be installed?

Retractable security grilles can be installed on a wide range of windows and doors, depending on the property layout and fixing points.

Common installations include:

• A range of types of windows
• Front and back doors
• Patio doors
• French doors
• Shopfronts
• Offices
• Schools
• Commercial premises
• Homes

Retractable grilles are often used in homes, flats, shops, offices, schools and commercial premises because they can provide strong protection while still allowing the space to be used normally during the day.

For business premises, see our commercial security grilles service.

Retractable, collapsible, folding and concertina grilles: what’s the difference?

The following terms are used interchangeably, and all mean the same thing:

• Retractable grilles
• Retractable security grilles
• Collapsible security grilles
• Collapsible grilles
• Folding security grilles
• Folding window security grilles
• Folding security door gates
• Concertina security grilles
• Concertina window security grilles
• Concertina gates
• Sliding security grilles
• Lattice gates
• Side folding security grilles

In most cases, these terms refer to a metal security grille that slides or folds sideways across a window or door. The grille locks into place when closed and folds back when open.

The genuine differences usually relate to the grille design, lattice pattern, track type, locking system and how the grille stacks when open. IKS Locksmiths can advise on the most suitable option for your property.

Choosing the right retractable security grille

Choosing the right retractable grille depends on the type of property, the opening size, how the window or door is used and the appearance you want to achieve.

A specialist will advise on the best option for your particular property.

Option	Common choices
Lattice style	S-lattice grilles or X-lattice grilles
Installation position	Internal retractable security grilles or external retractable security grilles
Fixing method	Face fixed or reveal fixed
Stack position	Left stack, right stack or split stack
Track type	Standard track, low-profile track or removable track
Lock type	Two-point hook locks or multi-point locking systems
Finish	Powder-coated finish for durability
Colour	Standard colour range or bespoke colour matching

How bespoke measuring and installation helps achieve the best results

Every window and door opening is different. Accurate measuring is essential for smooth operation, a neat finish and reliable security.

A poorly measured grille may be difficult to use, may not sit correctly in the opening or may leave weak points around the frame. This is why measuring should be carried out by someone with practical experience of fitting security grilles, not only by a salesperson.

At IKS Locksmiths, an experienced installer oversees the process from design to completion. This helps with:

• Accurate measurements
• Correct fixing points
• Smooth sliding operation
• Suitable track placement
• Secure locking
• A better fit around handles, frames, curtains and blinds
• A cleaner final appearance

Are retractable security grilles suitable for your property?

Retractable grilles are suitable for many property types, but there are cases where fixed grilles or shutters may be a better choice.

Property Type	Are retractable grilles suitable?	Notes
House	✅Yes	Often suitable for doors, patio doors and vulnerable windows
Flat	✅Yes	Internal grilles may be more practical, depending on access and building rules
Shop	✅Yes	Often suitable for shopfronts and entrances, although roller shutters may be better for some premises
Office	✅Yes	Useful for ground-floor windows, entrances and glazed doors
Patio doors	✅Yes	One of the most common uses for retractable grilles
Schools	✅Yes	Security grilles are ideal for schools
French doors	✅Yes	Can provide protection while retaining light and access
Commercial premises	✅Yes	Suitable for offices, retail units, clinics, warehouses and other businesses

Fixed grilles may be better when a window does not need regular access, when the main goal is permanent protection or where the lowest-cost high-security option is preferred. Roller shutters may be better for some shopfronts and commercial entrances.

Why choose IKS Locksmiths?

Choose IKS Locksmiths for the best security grilles installation in London. IKS is an MLA Approved locksmith in Barnet and leading installer of different types of security grilles in Greater London and the surrounding areas of Hertfordshire, Essex and Buckinghamshire.

Check IKS Locksmiths Credentials:

Master Locksmith Association approved company	✅	Qualified, DBS checked and regularly vetted by the Master Locksmiths Association
High quality products	✅	On a par with Banham security grilles but at more competitive prices
Excellent value for money	✅	The highest quality without the high price tag
Specialised measuring for accuracy	✅	Measuring is only carried out by an experienced installer and not just a sales person
Expert installers	✅	The highest level of expertise and experience
High levels of customer service	✅	Our bespoke approach to customer service prioritises attention to detail and excellent aftercare
A direct line to a Master Locksmith	✅	You will have a direct line to a Master Locksmith who will oversee the process from start to finish and beyond
Grilles Gallery and brochure	✅	Choose your preferred style from our retractable security grilles gallery and brochure, which shows the different styles of grilles available
Covering Greater London and surrounding areas	✅	We cover Greater London, Hertfordshire, Essex and Buckinghamshire
5* rated reviews	✅	Check our reviews on Google, Trustpilot and social media

Request a free quotation

Do you want to know how much security grilles cost? Contact IKS Locksmiths with approximate measurements and photos of the windows or doors you want to secure. We can provide an initial retractable security grilles price estimate and arrange a free in-person survey where needed.

For more detail, read our guide on how much security grilles cost.

Whether you are looking for retractable security grilles for doors​ or windows or are unsure what the best option for your property is, we can help.

Call or WhatsApp on 0203 284 1045 or 07947426981
email info@ikslocksmiths.co.uk

Frequently asked questions

Are retractable security grilles as secure as fixed grilles?

Yes, retractable security grilles are as secure as fixed grilles when they are locked. However, they are not secure when they are not in the locked position. Therefore, it is important to consider each case to get the correct balance between security and practicality. Consulting with a security grilles specialist is the best way to establish the best option for a particular property.

Can retractable security grilles be fitted inside or outside?

Yes, retractable security grilles can be fitted inside or outside. However, which option is workable will depend on the configuration of a particular property. For example, when windows or a door open inward, external retractable security grilles allow the windows or door to open and vice versa. Also, if the grilles are on a high level, internal retractable security grilles work best, as it would not be possible to operate the grilles from outside. Seeking advice from a security grilles specialist is essential to choose the best security grilles for your property.

Can I use retractable grilles on patio doors?

Yes, retractable grilles are ideal for patio door security because they provide high security, let light into the property, and provide the flexibility of being hidden away in the open position when you are at home during the day and locked and secure at night or when you are out of the house. They are an excellent deterrent and can prevent intruders from smashing the glass to gain entry.

How much space is needed when the grille is open?

The overall space needed to stack grilles in the open position is 15-20% of the total width of the grilles in the locked position. This can either be stacked to one side of the opening or equally on both sides, depending on what is most practical and aesthetic. It can also be stacked within the reveal or face fixed leaving the whole opening clear when in the open position. Always ask an experienced security grilles specialist what the best option for your property is.

Do retractable grilles block natural light?

No, retractable grilles do not block natural light. In fact, they are designed to let natural light in whether in the open or locked position. This makes retractable security grilles a popular option in many situations.

Are retractable security grilles suitable for listed or period properties?

Retractable security grilles are unlikely to be suitable for listed buildings due to preservation laws; however, they are often suitable for period properties such as Victorian houses. It depends on the specific restrictions in place for a particular property, and it is important to check with the local council before making any changes. We always aim to preserve the appearance of a property and balance aesthetics with high security.

Can retractable grilles be colour matched?

Yes, retractable grilles can be colour matched, and you can choose the finish too.

How long does installation take?

From the point of placing an order for security grilles it takes 2 to 3 weeks for bespoke retractable security grilles to be fabricated and delivered. In the meantime, an installation date would be booked. It takes between 1 and 3 hours to install an individual grille, depending on the complexity of the job. The time to complete the entire job will depend on the number of grilles and the complexity of the job. Most of our jobs are completed within half a day or 1 to 2 days for bigger jobs.

Contact IKS Locksmiths, London security grilles specialist

IKS are London specialists in bespoke fixed and retractable window grilles and door grilles. Contact us to find out more about fixed or retractable security grilles in London.

• phone or WhatsApp on 0203 284 1045 or 07947426981
• email info@ikslocksmiths.co.uk