Windows are the eye to your home, it is essential that you choose the right kind. The primary function of a window is to provide a proper view, ventilation, and protection from the world.
But the current trends of window placement and styles have changed drastically. Gone are the days when people invested in robust windows for their durability.
Nowadays, people want style and functionality and Jalousie windows are definitely here to deliver both. The coming sections will highlight detailed information about jalousie windows and how to replace a jalousie window.
What Is A Jalousie Window?
A jalousie window consists of multiple horizontal slats, or louvers, arranged in parallel and operated by a crank or lever that tilts them open or closed together to regulate airflow and light.
Typically made from glass or uPVC, these windows gained popularity in warm mid-20th-century climates for allowing ventilation while blocking rain. Today, they are still found in porches, sunrooms, and coastal homes, valued for their balance of fresh air circulation and privacy.
How a Jalousie Window Works
1. Horizontal Slats
A jalousie window is made up of multiple horizontal slats, or louvers, stacked one above the other.
2. Clips and Frame
The slats are secured by clips attached to a metal frame, which enables them to pivot smoothly.
3. Crank Mechanism
A manually operated crank connects to the slats, controlling their movement.
4. Tilting Action
When the crank is turned, the bottom edge of each slat tilts upward and outward. This synchronized motion allows the window to open partially or fully, with the slats lying almost horizontal when fully open.
5. Overlapping Seal
In the closed position, the slats overlap, forming a seal that provides reasonable protection against rain and wind, though not as tight as modern window designs.
There are options in the material of the panel, some might use aluminum and others might offer them in various hard materials to increase the durability of the window.
Benefits Of Jalousie Window
Rain Friendly
The slanted panel setting prevents the rain from getting inside the house, allowing you to keep your windows open in light rain and enjoy the nice weather.
Better Ventilation
In comparison to single or double hung window, a jalousie window allows better airflow with the help of its numerous openings. In hung windows you can open half the window space one at a time.
Easy Repair
In case your slat or panel is damaged the repair is easy and localized in a single part of the window. You can simply detach the specific section and repair or replace it. On the other hand, if a traditional window gets damaged, the complete windowpane needs to be replaced. This makes jalousie window repair and maintenance easy and cost effective.
Easier To Decorate And Renovate
The glass pane can be easily replaced to match the aesthetic of your room and decoration. You can easy replace them with wood, aluminum, or other colored material to give your windows a customized touch (even in case you have a broken glass).
Downside Of A Jalousie Window
Lack Of Water Resistance
Solid widows without slating panel defiantly provide more protection to rain and snow, therefore the chances of water seeping in through openings is really high.
Insulation Problems
Jalousies windows have numerous opening which allows the heat to escape from your house; this makes them limited to sunrooms for homes located in cold climates and considered best for air conditioning.
How Can Oridow Make Jalousie Windows Better?
As mentioned earlier this classic design needed modification to be adapted to the modern home setting. We have got some easy solution to fix all insulation and water resistance problems.
- Our jalousie window design is installed with EPDM gasket that makes it water proof.
- The gasket between the jalousie window frames and panel to reduce the fraction, and limit damage to the structure.
- The foldable louver blades can move to any angle to prevent outside elements from entering the metal housings, metal wedge or metal tab.
- We use low-E glass to prevent heat loss in cold regions.
- You can also attach a bug repellant screen to the window.
- We have added aluminum material to make the design robust.
- To increase the security of the jalousie windows, an aluminum bar is added behind each blade.
Oridow is a manufacturer and supplier of quality and classy windows and doors located in China. We provide highly flexible solutions that are adaptable to your homes, request a quote and customize aluminum or new glass windows according to your home needs.
Advantages of Having Jalousie Windows
If you want to have your windows open during a storm, you will like having jalousie windows.
You’ll be able to let the cold air from the storm in a while, preventing the floors and other surfaces surrounding the windows from getting wet thanks to the slats’ ability to deflect rain and keep the elements out, much as an awning window would.
Improved Circulation of Air
Since they use the full aperture, jalousie windows allow for greater ventilation than other types of windows, such as single-hung or double-hung varieties.
Whether you have single- or double-hung windows, you can only open up a fraction of the available area at any moment. On the other hand, Jalousie windows do not have the same level of protection from the elements as these substantial windows.
Maintenance and Little Adjustments
Since you simply need to replace the broken slat, repairing Jalousie window slats is a simple task that results in significant cost savings.
Replacement of a whole pane of glass is often required for traditional windows, which results in increased expenses. Unhooking the damaged portion of your jalousie window system and replacing it with a new one is what you do when it breaks.
Although glass was much more brittle and easily broken many decades ago, one of the primary reasons people loved these windows was how simple and quick it was to maintain them.
Several Approaches to the Decoration of the Space
The slats of jalousie windows may be replaced with various kinds of glass or even materials that aren’t glass, such as aluminum or wood, which is another advantage of these sorts of windows.
If you decide to accomplish either, you won’t have any trouble turning your window into a shutter or a chic frosted privacy window. To replace the existing glass slats with replacements of the same size, you need to detach the moving parts from their hooks and slide them out.
Compared to a window with a complete pane, this form of window may have its appearance and functionality modified with far less effort.
Consider Your Options Before Opting for Jalousie Windows
Jalousie windows are not recommended for use in northern climate houses since they do not provide the same level of insulation as other types of windows.
Since they are made up of many different components, there are too many spaces between each one to be successfully sealed.
Sunrooms are the only appropriate locations for these windows in a cold climate home if the goal is to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the house and have energy efficient windows.
Consider installing jalousie windows in your house if you are in the market for low-maintenance windows that let you keep your home’s air circulating even when it is raining outside.
Awning windows offer many of the benefits of jalousie windows without the drawbacks. Suppose you live in a cold climate or want a window offering better insulation for your home.
In that case, you should consider awning windows which offer many advantages over jalousie windows. However, they do have some limitations. To install your new jalousie windows, you should look for a reputable window replacement contractor.
How to Replace Jalousie Windows
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Skill Level Required
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Replacing jalousie windows as a DIY project requires significant skill and experience.
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Whether swapping them for another jalousie or upgrading to a more conventional option (e.g., double-hung), careful planning is essential.
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Key Installation Considerations
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Factor in the balance between natural light, airflow, and ventilation control.
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Ensure the new window type meets your comfort and design goals.
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Hiring a Contractor
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Professional replacement provides warranties, correct installation, and competitive pricing.
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Contractors ensure compliance with building codes and local requirements.
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Expert Evaluation
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A skilled window installer will assess your home’s architecture, construction, and climate conditions.
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They can also advise on eligibility for tax credits or rebates related to energy efficiency.
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Benefits of Proper Replacement
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Enhances curb appeal and modernizes your home.
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Increases property value and improves energy efficiency.
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Ensures long-term durability and optimal performance.
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Jalousie Windows Replacement Parts
When considering the purchase of jalousie windows, one of the most significant considerations is how simple it is to find the necessary components, such as crank window parts or jalousie window parts.
The good news is that several respectable manufacturers make jalousie window components easily accessible.
Customers and builders prefer jalousie windows because they need less upkeep and are simpler and more affordable to replace. In many cases, repairing or changing components may be achieved with low mechanical expertise and the right amount of direction.
The majority of people choose to seek jalousie windows components on the internet. Slats, cranks, and window frame are the three components most often sought after.
The jalousie window operators or hand cranks are the most likely to become defective from these three components.
These devices, which consist of a handle and a crank gear, are used to open and shut the window. This jalousie window component is more likely to need repair or replacement as its use increases.
There is a wide array of websites belonging to different manufacturers and other online how-to manuals that might be useful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are jalousie windows outdated?
Jalousie windows were most popular in the mid-20th century, especially in warm climates. While they aren’t as common today, many homeowners still appreciate them for their ventilation and vintage style. Modern versions now come with improved materials and seals, making them more efficient than older models.
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Provide excellent airflow and ventilation
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Still popular in sunrooms, patios, and coastal homes
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Modern upgrades improve insulation and durability
2. Do jalousie windows leak?
Traditional jalousie windows can let in water and air because of the gaps between the slats. However, newer designs often include weatherstripping and gaskets to minimize leaks.
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Older models = higher chance of water seepage
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Newer models with EPDM gaskets are more water-resistant
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Best suited for warm climates rather than cold or rainy regions
3. Are jalousie windows energy efficient?
By design, jalousie windows are not as energy efficient as double-hung, casement, or awning windows. Their many openings allow heat loss in winter and can make cooling less effective in extreme climates.
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Poor insulation compared to modern windows
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Suitable for homes in warm or coastal regions
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Can be upgraded with low-E glass and aluminum framing for better efficiency
4. Can you still buy jalousie windows and parts?
Yes. While less common than other window types, jalousie windows and replacement parts are still available from specialized manufacturers and online suppliers.
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Common parts: slats, cranks, frames
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Replacement parts are affordable and easy to install
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Best sourced online from reputable suppliers or contractors
5. How much does it cost to replace jalousie windows?
Costs vary depending on size, material, and whether you’re replacing with another jalousie or a more modern window type. Professional installation typically ensures warranties and correct fitting.
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DIY replacement is cheaper but requires skill
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Professional replacement averages similar to other window types
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Additional costs may apply for custom frames or energy-efficient glass
6. Where are jalousie windows best used?
Jalousie windows are ideal in spaces where airflow and light are a priority over insulation. They’re a common choice in warm, coastal, or tropical regions.
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Perfect for sunrooms, porches, and patios
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Great for coastal homes with natural breezes
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Not recommended for cold-climate main living areas
7. What are the pros and cons of jalousie windows?
Jalousie windows offer great ventilation and easy maintenance but fall short in insulation and security compared to modern windows.
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Pros:
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Excellent airflow and ventilation
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Easy to repair by replacing individual slats
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Customizable with different materials (glass, wood, aluminum)
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Cons:
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Poor insulation and energy efficiency
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Less secure than modern window types
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Can allow leaks in heavy rain
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