**History and Evolution:**
– Louvers originated in the Middle Ages as lantern-like constructions in wood for ventilation.
– Early louvers were basic barrels, later evolving into pottery designs with faces.
– Modern louvers come in materials like aluminum, metal, wood, and glass.
– Louvers are used in buildings in bushfire-prone areas to enhance resistance.
– Construction methods vary based on the level of bushfire risk of the building.
**Construction and Operation:**
– Louvers can be operated with levers, pulleys, or motorized operators.
– Building standards detail specific construction requirements for bushfire-prone areas.
– Various materials and methods are specified depending on the bushfire risk level.
– Louvers play a role in improving ventilation and temperature control in industrial facilities.
– Bell towers use louvers to maximize sound projection while protecting the bells.
**Louvers vs. Jalousies:**
– Louvers are fixed, while jalousies are movable and adjustable.
– Jalousies can be positioned parallel to each other through a mechanism.
– Louvers and jalousies are sometimes mistakenly used interchangeably.
– The movable nature of jalousies sets them apart from fixed louvers.
– The key difference between louvers and jalousies lies in their adjustability.
**Architectural Applications:**
– Louvers are not common design elements but serve as technical devices.
– They help cool buildings in hot climates and block direct sunlight.
– Louvers can improve indoor daylighting and limit glare.
– Industrial facilities use louvers for natural ventilation and temperature regulation.
– Some architects incorporate louvers for aesthetic purposes in building facades.
**Infrastructure Uses:**
– Louvers can function as flood openings to equalize hydrostatic pressure.
– They are designed to allow floodwaters to enter and leave buildings.
– Louver windows are designed to withstand cyclonic conditions.
– Louver blades are tested for cyclonic regions to resist debris.
– Flood openings with louvers help mitigate structural damage during floods.
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A louver (American English) or louvre (British English; see spelling differences) is a window blind or shutter with horizontal slats that are angled to admit light and air, but to keep out rain and direct sunshine. The angle of the slats may be adjustable, usually in blinds and windows, or fixed.
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