Back to all articles
09.01.2026

Roller Shutters: Are they still up to date?

ROMA Roller Shutters on large window better with motor

Roller Shutters belt winders - whether manual or electric - are classic solutions for operating Roller Shutters. But are they also the best choice for roller shutter control? ROMA Roller Shutters have integrated drives with intelligent control that meet the highest standards of convenience, energy efficiency and design - both in new builds and for retrofitting. Whether by radio, app or fully automated in the Smart Home:

Direct control of the motor is the most reliable, convenient and future-proof solution today. Find out in this article how belt winders work, what advantages modern control systems offer in comparison - and why switching to a fully automated solution is worthwhile in the long term.

A ROMA specialist partner in your area can provide you withexpert advice and individual planning.

Roller Shutters: The most important facts in brief

  • Manual belt winders: are a simple but less convenient solution.

  • Electric belt winders: offer greater ease of use, but remain technically limited.

  • ROMA Roller Shutters: have integrated drives that can be controlled conveniently, quietly and energy-efficiently.

  • Smart Home integration: enables automated processes - controlled by the position of the sun or time program, for example.

  • For new builds and retrofitting: the fully automated control of Roller Shutters is the most future-proof solution today.

What is a Roller Shutters belt winder?

Abelt winderis used to wind or unwind theroller shutter belt whenthe roller shutter israised or lowered. It is available in two versions:


Manual Roller Shutters Belt Winders

Thisclassic solution works purelymechanically. The belt is pulled or released by hand. The advantages are the low purchase costs and the simple technology. The disadvantage is thelimited ease of use- especially with large windows or frequent use.


Electric belt winder for Roller Shutters

Anelectric belt winder for Roller Shuttersperforms this taskmotorized. Depending on the version, it is controlled by push-button, remote control or automatically via time programs.

Hands pulling on the roller shutter strap

Why Roller Shutters belt winders are no longer necessary today

Despite their widespread use, belt winders - even the electric version - are technically outdated. They are only an interim solution that does not come close to the efficiency, convenience and design freedom of modern Roller Shutters control systems.

ROMA relies on motors integrated directly into the Roller Shutters, without any visible belt winders. The electric Roller Shutters operate almost silently, are low-maintenance and can be precisely automated - for example based on the position of the sun, time of day or weather data.

The result: greater convenience, higher energy efficiency and an aesthetically tidy living environment. Anyone building or modernizing today is therefore opting directly for fully automated control.

How to control ROMA Roller Shutters

  • Electric via switch or push-button: classic operation via a permanently installed wall switch - ideal for individual windows or rooms.

  • Radio control: convenient via remote control or wall transmitter - can also be controlled in groups, without any wiring.

  • App control: via smartphone or tablet.

  • Automated in the Smart Home: fully integrated into the building.

Smart Home integration of Roller Shutters

With ROMA Smart Home, you can conveniently control your Roller Shutters via app, radio or automatically according to the position of the sun and the weather. The systems can be seamlessly integrated into existing Smart Home environments - for more convenience, energy efficiency and security in everyday life.

Convenience starts with the right controls

Whether in new builds or modernization projects, the requirements for roller shutter operation have changed significantly. Instead of outdated belt winders, more and more building owners are opting for integrated, automated solutions that are suitable for everyday use. ROMA offers modern control systems that harmonize ease of use, energy efficiency and design .

For individual planning and professional implementation, we recommend consulting a ROMA Distributor in your area.

ROMA specialist partner near you
Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required fields.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Roller Shutters belt winders

What is a Roller Shutters belt winder?

A Roller Shutters belt winder is a device that winds or unwinds the belt of a Roller Shutters - either manually by hand or electrically by motor. It can be used for the daily operation of the Roller Shutters.

What is the difference between a belt winder and an integrated drive?

A belt winder operates the Roller Shutters via a belt - either manually or electrically. ROMA, on the other hand, relies on drives integrated directly into the roller shutter box, which are significantly quieter, more durable and easier to control.

Discover electric Roller Shutters from ROMA

Why doesn't ROMA offer electric belt winders?

Electric belt winders are technically limited and visually conspicuous. ROMA deliberately opts for modern motor solutions that are more elegant, require less maintenance and are more efficient - and are a perfect match for the automated control system.

Are integrated ROMA operators also suitable for retrofitting?

Yes, many ROMA Roller Shutters can also be easily retrofitted to existing buildings - without the need for costly conversions. A ROMA specialist partner will support you with individual planning.

How are ROMA Roller Shutters controlled?

ROMA Roller Shutters are controlled by motors integrated into the roller shutter shaft - not by electric belt winders. Depending on the equipment, they can be operated using a wall switch, radio remote control, app or fully automatically via a Smart Home system. Particularly convenient: the control can be programmed individually - e.g. according to the time, position of the sun or weather conditions. In this way, energy saving, convenience and security can be optimally combined.

To the ROMA Smart Home solutions

Previous article
To the top