Modern commercial structures must accomplish multiple ends simultaneously. Not only do they have to be architecturally stunning and enhance productivity, but they must also do so while adhering to modern sustainability standards.
As such, architects are constantly looking for dynamic materials that can give them a head start. One such option is architectural louvers. Keep reading as we explore the multi-faceted role of louvers in modern building design.
Benefits of Louvers in Architectural Design
There are myriad benefits of architectural louvers that can ultimately improve the comfort, functionality, and appearance of commercial structures.
Aesthetics
Louvers can do wonders for enhancing the architectural appeal of a commercial building. They can help break up drab facades with intriguing angles and textures. In fact, louver systems are alternately known as “dynamic facades” thanks in large part to their aesthetic benefits. Louvers treated with reflective coatings sparkle in the sunlight and add an element of vivacity to the building’s exterior.
Energy Efficiency
One of the most exciting benefits of louvers is their potential to enhance energy efficiency. By promoting natural ventilation throughout a building, they can greatly reduce the reliance on HVAC in hot climates. When combined with strategic orientation, wall mounted fans, and a robust insulation infrastructure, buildings can make significant headway toward net-zero status.
Sun Shading
Louvers also play a key role in shading and natural light control, helping keep the structure adequately illuminated without excessive warming. Some benefits include:
Louvers can help block the sun’s intense heat without absorbing and storing warmth, leading to more comfortable interior environments
Shading and glare reduction, allowing for greater control of interior lighting
UV protection for improved ventilation without the threat of sunburn to building occupants
All in all, the dynamic shading benefits of louvers is one of the key reasons for their increase in popularity, especially in buildings that contain significant window area.
Air Quality
Louvers play a key role in promoting the air quality of a building. There are even specific types of louvers that act as backdraft dampers, guaranteeing the correct flow of air throughout the facility. This is especially relevant in commercial plants or other environments that need to efficiently diffuse potential airborne toxins.
Styles of Architectural Louvers
There are numerous styles of architectural louvers. Each will have utility for the specific application for which it is used.
Fixed-Blade Louvers
This is the most common style of louver. It uses blades that do not move, either manually or electrically. The fixed slats are typically installed at 45- or 60-degree angles, depending on the sun and wind patterns common to the wall on which they are installed. They provide an efficient means of controlling air and sun entrance to help the building save on energy consumption.
Adjustable Louvers
Adjustable louvers have blades that are either manually or electrically manipulated. This allows them to change angles based on the current weather. This gives building occupants increased control for the utmost safety and comfort. It should be noted that they will cost a b it more than standard fixed-blade louvers.
Storm Louvers
Storm louvers are specially designed to promote ventilation without allowing moisture infiltration. They will typically use sharper angles than standard louvers to help eliminate moisture without blocking airflow. They are a common louver option in coastal areas where wind-driven rain is prevalent.
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Acoustical Louvers
In addition to promoting air flow, acoustical louvers include sound attenuation features. They help absorb sound waves and direct them away from the building, helping reduce noise pollution in the structure. They commonly feature a powder coat or other type of sound-absorbent material to improve their noise-mitigating utility.
Costs of Louver Systems
The total cost of implementing a louver system will probably fall somewhere between $50 and $150 per square foot. This would be a likely figure for a standard 4-inch, high-performance fixed aluminum louver. However, the cost varies widely based on factors such as:
Material - aluminum louvers are the most economical and prevalent, with more robust steel options costing more
Complexity - customized designs with intricate patterns and motorized, adjustable options will cost more than standard fixed options
Installation labor - more difficult areas of the building to access, such as walls directly adjacent to bodies of water, will result in higher labor costs
With that said, while there is an upfront cost associated with louver installation, a big-picture view should be taken into consideration.
The Science Direct Journal discovered that long-term energy savings seen in buildings with dynamic facades could exceed 34% annually, helping to quickly recoup the initial installation cost over time.
Use Louvers to Take Your Commercial Building to the Next Level
Modern commercial buildings are increasingly dynamic. As such, it is crucial to source innovative materials to get a head start on bringing dynamic designs to fruition. With their multitude of benefits of design styles, architectural louvers are an ideal option to help modern building facades stay ahead of the times.