Thursday, January 22, 2015

The Many Benefits Of Fixed Louvers

By Janine Hughes


A louver consists of slats that effectively let air and light in but keep direct sunlight, noise and rain out. These slats may be horizontal or vertical and fixed louvers are those with permanently set slats. They are very versatile and may be used to give privacy, protection against bad weather or for shading and security. They can also be used to create a pleasing aesthetic effect.

There are many different designs available. Shapes and sizes of blades differ and even the spaces between blades vary from product to product. Blades are made of different materials and the finishes used are also different. Choice is based primarily on where the product is to be used. For example, certain products are specially designed for use in situations with severe weather conditions.

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.

Clients may be given the opportunity to customize products. They may be able to choose the size and shape of blades or a particular finish. They may also be able to order extras to be fitted such as galvanized mesh. There are products that already come with gutters fitted in front of blades directing water away from the opening of the building.

Louvers are valued for the practical solution they present. They offer cost effective ventilation, protection and privacy but they are can also be used to create pleasing aesthetic effects. The variety of designs, sizes, shapes and finishes allow for appealing and unusual features to be created both indoors and outdoors. When shopping online for these products, designs and prices are easy to compare in order to make the best choice.




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