The principal reason for using louvres is to allow the movement of air. Each project should be considered independently, ensuring that the specified solution delivers all the required performance criteria.
A plant room housing expensive HVAC equipment will typically require rain defence louvres to offer both good airflow and protection from rain water ingress.
For projects where the primary concern is maximum airflow, and some rain penetration is acceptable, ventilation louvres can be considered.
Where visual screening is the main requirement and rain ingress is not an issue, e.g. a car park or rooftop plant room, screening models offer an easy to install and economical solution.
In addition, sound attenuation and noise reduction may be required in any of those situations. Acoustic louvres should then be considered.
PERFORMANCE VS. DESIGN VISION
Louvre specification is a balance between form and function, with louvred façade appearance playing an important part in the selection process. With a wide range of options available, louvres can become a stand out feature, or harmoniously blend with the building’s design.
KEY SPECIFICATION FACTORS
- Building site’s position
- Prevailing weather conditions (especially wind direction)
- Location of the louvres on the building and their exposure to wind driven rain
- Required airflow performance and acceptable pressure drop
- Level of permissible rain water penetration
- Acoustic requirements
- Exterior building design and aesthetics
