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Week 2: Roll Shutters Deep Dive

onboarding_course/week2_roll_shutters.md document
Updated: 2026-03-07 02:45
# Week 2: Roll Shutters Deep Dive

## Day 1: What Are Roll Shutters?

### Definition
Roll shutters are exterior rolling doors made of interlocking aluminum slats that roll up into a box when open and roll down to cover windows, doors, or openings.

### Key Benefits (Selling Points)
1. **Security** - Physical barrier against intruders
2. **Light Control** - Complete blackout capability
3. **Energy Efficiency** - Insulation reduces heating/cooling costs
4. **Noise Reduction** - Blocks outside noise
5. **Storm Protection** - Guards against wind, debris, hail
6. **Privacy** - Complete privacy when closed
7. **UV Protection** - Protects furniture from sun damage

### How They Work
- Motor or manual crank inside the building
- Slats roll up into headbox above opening
- Guide rails on sides keep slats aligned
- Bottom bar seals against sill

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## Day 2: Types & Options

### Slat Profiles
| Profile | Size | Best For |
|---------|------|----------|
| 42mm | Standard | Residential windows |
| 55mm | Medium | Larger windows, light commercial |
| 77mm | Large | Big openings, commercial |

### Operation Types
1. **Manual (Crank)** - Belt/tape or hand crank
2. **Motorized** - Electric motor, wall switch
3. **Remote Control** - RF remote
4. **Smart Home** - WiFi, app control, timers, sensors

### Popular Add-Ons
- Sun/wind sensors (auto-close)
- Timer controls
- Battery backup
- Integration with home automation

### Colors
- Standard: White, beige, brown
- Premium: Custom powder coating available

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## Day 3: Applications

### Residential
- Windows (bedroom blackout, security)
- Patio doors (large glass protection)
- Vacation homes (security when away)
- Basements (egress, security)

### Commercial
- Storefronts (security)
- Restaurants (patio enclosure)
- Schools (security, weather)
- Healthcare (privacy, light control)

### Specialty
- Hurricane zones
- High-crime areas
- Shift workers (blackout)
- Home theaters

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## Day 4: Common Questions & Objections

### "Are they secure?"
"Roll shutters provide excellent security. The interlocking aluminum slats create a physical barrier that's difficult to breach. Many customers install them specifically for peace of mind, especially for vacation homes or businesses."

### "Will they look ugly?"
"When open, the shutters roll completely into the headbox - you don't see them at all. The headbox can be concealed in the soffit or covered with a decorative hood. When closed, they have a clean, uniform look."

### "How long do they last?"
"With proper maintenance, roll shutters last 15-20+ years. The motors are typically rated for 10+ years of normal use. We back everything with a 5-year warranty."

### "Can I install them myself?"
"We recommend professional installation to ensure proper operation and warranty coverage. Incorrect installation can void the warranty and cause operational issues."

### "What about power outages?"
"Motorized shutters have manual override - you can crank them by hand if power is out. We also offer battery backup systems."

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## Day 5: Technical Specifications

### Key Measurements
- **Width:** Measure rough opening, add for guide rails
- **Height:** Measure from top of opening to sill
- **Depth:** Headbox requires 8-12" depending on size
- **Mounting:** Inside mount vs. outside mount

### Weight Considerations
- Approximate: 5-7 lbs per square foot
- Larger shutters = more powerful motor required
- Check structural support for heavy units

### Electrical Requirements
- Standard motors: 120V, dedicated circuit recommended
- Commercial: May need 220V for large units
- Hardwired vs. plug-in options

### Week 2 Quiz
1. Name 5 benefits of roll shutters
2. What slat profile is best for residential windows?
3. How do you answer "will they look ugly?"
4. What happens during a power outage?
5. What warranty do we offer?

### Hands-On
- [ ] Review 5 roll shutter quotes in CRM
- [ ] Memorize the top 5 benefits
- [ ] Practice the security objection response
- [ ] Watch installation video