27 January, 2015

The Many Benefits Of Fixed Louvers

By Janine Hughes


Louvers not only add to the aesthetic appeal of buildings, but also offer a reliable and highly cost effective ventilation solution. They can be used on industrial, commercial and residential buildings. They consist of slats that are angled to keep out rain and let in air and light. Horizontal or vertical options are available. Fixed louvers differ from adjustable ones in that the slats are set in position and cannot be moved. They offer privacy, security, shading, protection against bad weather as well as having a pleasing appearance.

There are many design variations and choice will depend on the type of application. Factors such as size and shape of blades, spacing between blades and direction of panels all have to be taken into account. Durability of material used and the type of finish are other important considerations.

These products are manufactured from a number of different materials like wood, metal and even glass. Aluminium is a most popular material as it is corrosion and temperature resistant with a high tensile strength. The finishes on these aluminium products are varied and a natural anodized finish, mill finish or a powder coated color finish are all available.

A louver offers a sustainable yet effective ventilation solution for industrial, commercial and residential buildings. They are also cost effective and ideal where greater weather exposure is experienced. Car parks, factories, apartment blocks and office buildings are just some of the places where they are used. They may also be specifically designed to enhance the facade of a building.

Choosing a manufacturer with a good reputation and experience will ensure satisfaction with a product. The design of products has to take many factors into account such as air flow resistance, water penetration and free area which entails a comparison of air coming through the louvered opening with air coming through the unobstructed opening. Tests have to be conducted on designs and data collected.

The free area is the total open area of the louver divided by the overall opening. A high percentage means that more air can enter into a smaller opening, thus reducing overall costs. Another consideration is the water penetration. Minimal water penetration while maximizing free area is most desirable. Air flow resistance of each product is different depending on the type of blades and the shape and angle of a frame. The specific angle at which slats are set can make all the difference when it comes to effectiveness. Many manufacturers state percentages of free area and air flow resistance in product specifications.

If clients require customization manufacturers are often happy to offer this. There are also various optional extras offered by manufacturers such as fitting an insect screen or some galvanized mesh. Some products already come with gutters situated in front of the blades that help to direct water away from the opening.

A louver is not normally seen as a primary design element but is rather valued for its practicality. However, some architects do use them to create aesthetically pleasing effects on the facades of buildings. The variety of models, sizes, and paint finishes available, means that unusual and appealing features can be created internally and externally. Apart from aesthetic considerations, the benefits of increased air flow amongst many others makes these products invaluable.




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