Louvered windows and jalousie windows are exactly the same thing. Most people have probably heard of louvered windows. They are the slatted windows often seen in tropical climates, allowing balmy breezes to flow through the window’s individual horizontal panes. You may have never heard of jalousie windows before – discover more about these types of windows.
The Basics Of Louvered & Jalousie Windows
The word ‘louvered’ is actually derived from the word ‘jaloux’, which is a French word that means jealousy. We’re not sure why a term that refers to jealousy was used to indicate a type of window style – but who knows? Maybe when these windows were first introduced in the 16th century, someone was jealous that the windows could allow fresh air to flow through a room while keeping out unwanted elements like rain. That’s just a hunch, but worth considering as the origin of the window’s name.
Louvered windows aren’t for everyone or for every type of home or climate. They are most often utilized in mild climates and are a popular option for breezeways, passageways and porches that can benefit from the cooling breezes they provide. Here are a few advantages and drawbacks to these replacement windows.
Advantages of Louvered And Jalousie Windows
Ventilation – Louvered windows provide natural air conditioning. The open panes allow air to freely flow into a room, cooling it off. This is why they are a popular choice in more tropical climates where air conditioning is too expensive to run or is not available. While air is allowed in, rain and direct sunshine are kept out. Remember though that what goes in also goes out, so they are not a good option in cooler climates where heat loss can rapidly occur.
Lower Utility Bills – Even if a home is equipped with air conditioning, properly placed louvered windows can create enough air flow to keep rooms cool without needing to run the a/c as much. Cooling breezes through the slats can keep occupants comfy while keeping utility bills down. This is especially true at night and makes for great sleeping conditions when the breezes are blowing.
Aesthetics – There are no other types of windows that offer the same look and style of louvered or jalousie windows. They can add architectural interest and can provide a relaxed and tropical feel to a home.
Options – You can select louvered windows in different sizes, color options and glass finishes.
Cost – Louvered windows are relatively inexpensive and cost approximately $75 – $100 per window. Installation costs will increase the price and should be factored in when determining total window cost. Find out more on louvered and jalousie window prices.
Replacement – Since each pane of glass on a louvered window is independent of the others, you can easily replace just one or a few panes if broken, without having to replace the entire window.
Drawbacks – Energy Efficiency – There is no way to completely seal a louvered window tightly due to its construction. Air can leak through the individual panes of glass, even when the window is tightly closed, which makes the windows rather inefficient. While this may not pose a problem in mild or tropical climates where louvered windows are often found, it makes them an impractical choice for those that live in cold weather climates.
Weather Protection – While louvered windows are designed to keep rain and direct sunlight out, they cannot be completely sealed tightly. This means that if you live in an area prone to severe rain, wind or storms, the windows may be letting in more of the elements than you would like.
Security – Since louvered windows aren’t completely sealed, it also makes them targets for intruders looking to gain easy entry into a home. The panes can be broken and removed strip by strip without the commotion caused by breaking a large pane of glass.
Durability – There are moving parts on louvered windows, unlike most other traditional windows. This means that they are more likely to suffer the consequences of repeated use and hold up as well as stationary windows. The good news, however, is that individual panes of glass can be replaced if broken without having to replace the whole window.
Deciding on louvered windows for your home is a personal choice, and often comes down to where you live and whether you like the look of the windows and the balmy breezes they allow to flow through your home. You should check with local ordinances, however, before finalizing your decision, because some jurisdictions may not allow the installation of louvered windows in homes.
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Awning Windows
Bay Windows
Casement Windows
Double-Hung Windows
