Jalousie windows, also known as louvered windows, are a unique window style that improves indoor airflow and natural ventilation. These windows consist of parallel glass, acrylic, or wooden slats that open and close simultaneously, similar to Venetian blinds.

Jalousie windows are particularly well-suited for warm, rainy climates, making them popular in tropical locations like Florida and Hawaii. While their popularity has declined since the 1960s, jalousie windows still offer distinct advantages in specific architectural and climatic contexts. This guide will explore the history, benefits, drawbacks, and applications of jalousie windows to help you determine if they’re the right choice for your home.

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How Jalousie Windows Work

When open, the slats allow for maximum airflow, making them ideal for capturing cooling breezes. The windows work on a principle similar to Venetian blinds but with the window material itself acting as the adjustable slats. Jalousie windows are difficult to find, though a few leading window companies still carry them.

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Advantages of Jalousie Windows

Despite their decline in popularity, jalousie windows offer several benefits that make them attractive for specific applications and climates.

Improved Ventilation

Perhaps the biggest benefit of jalousie windows is the ease with which they allow homeowners to let fresh air inside, particularly while it’s raining. When kept at an angle, the slats can block rain while still providing ventilation, so your home’s interior won’t become stuffy during storms.

Natural Light

Jalousie windows with glass panes let in a great deal of sunlight, and there are no sashes to obstruct your view outside. For rooms like porches, these windows can provide a connection between a home’s indoor and outdoor space.

Simple Repairs

It’s easy and relatively inexpensive to pop out a damaged slat and replace it. You don’t need to replace the full pane as you would with a standard window, and you can often perform the repair yourself.

Aesthetics

The look of a jalousie window brings to mind the relaxing atmosphere of beach or island life that’s hard to replicate with a standard window.

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Drawbacks of Jalousie Windows

Despite their advantages, jalousie windows have several drawbacks that have contributed to their decline in popularity and limited their use in modern construction.

Air and Water Leakage

Even when closed, the slats of a jalousie window don’t form a perfect seal against the elements. Cold air from outdoors can still leak in. Additionally, even though they’re designed to keep rain out, the same wind that provides ventilation can also blow water between the slats when they’re open. 

Poor Energy Efficiency

The primary reason that jalousie windows declined in popularity was the advent of air conditioning. Not only did AC replace the function of these windows, but the two now work at cross purposes within a home—jalousie windows allow cooled air to leak outside, making AC units work harder and driving electric bills up. The same would happen to heated air in cold weather, as jalousie windows offer little to no insulation.

Security Risks

The same design function that allows jalousie windows to be easily repaired also makes them less secure. It’s easy to pop out a slat and reach in to operate the louver. If there is glass in these windows, it can’t be double- or triple-paned, making it easier to break.

Pest Infestations

Many areas with warm climates also have significant insect populations. Along with air and water, jalousie windows can allow insects and other pests inside, especially when open. They also aren’t compatible with traditional window screens, so you’d need to purchase specialty screens as well.

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How Much Do Jalousie Windows Cost?

Jalousie windows are difficult to find, but they’re relatively inexpensive. We found jalousie windows starting as low as $100 when we browsed home improvement retailers online.

Professional Installation

Jalousie window installation is a job best left to professionals, particularly if the window is large or located above a building’s ground floor. You can contact local window installers for a per-hour estimate.

DIY Installation

Experienced do-it-yourselfers (DIYers) may consider installing their own jalousie windows to save on labor costs. The new windows cost between $170 and $380, but you’ll also need the appropriate tools, lumber, and sealant to install a window. We only recommend DIY window installation for smaller, ground-floor windows.

*Costs in this article were sourced from contractor estimates used by Angi.

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Ideal Applications for Jalousie Windows

Despite their limitations, jalousie windows can be a great choice in certain situations. Understanding the ideal applications can help homeowners and architects make informed decisions about using these windows.

Climate Considerations

Jalousie windows are best suited for warm, humid climates with frequent rainfall. In these environments, the windows’ ability to provide ventilation while offering some protection from rain is highly valuable. They’re particularly well-suited for tropical and subtropical regions where maintaining airflow is crucial for comfort. However, in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations or harsh winters, jalousie windows are less practical due to their poor insulation properties.

Architectural Styles

From an architectural standpoint, jalousie windows complement certain styles particularly well. They’re often associated with midcentury modern and tropical design aesthetics. Jalousie windows can be an excellent choice for sunrooms, enclosed porches, or other transitional spaces where maximizing airflow and light is desirable. They can also be effective when renovating older homes to maintain a period-appropriate look while improving ventilation.

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Comparing Jalousie Windows to Other Window Types

To fully understand the unique characteristics of jalousie windows, it’s helpful to compare them to other common window styles. This comparison can highlight the strengths and weaknesses of jalousie windows in different contexts.

Jalousie vs. Louvered Windows

While the terms “jalousie” and “louvered” are often used interchangeably, there can be subtle differences. Louvered windows sometimes refer to windows with fixed slats, while jalousie windows always have adjustable slats. Both types offer similar aesthetic benefits, but jalousie windows provide more control over airflow. However, fixed louvered windows may offer better insulation and security than their adjustable counterparts.

Jalousie vs. Awning Windows

Awning windows, which are hinged at the top and open outward, offer some similar benefits to jalousie windows in terms of ventilation. Both types allow for airflow during light rain. However, awning windows provide better insulation and security when closed. They also typically accommodate screens more easily than jalousie windows. Awning windows are generally more versatile across different climates, while jalousie windows excel in specific warm, humid environments.

Jalousie vs. Casement Windows

Casement windows, which are hinged on one side and open outward, offer excellent ventilation like jalousie windows. However, casement windows provide much better insulation and security when closed. They can also be opened wide to capture breezes more effectively in some situations. While jalousie windows offer more precise control over airflow, casement windows are generally more energy-efficient and suitable for a wider range of climates.

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Maintaining and Repairing Jalousie Windows

Proper maintenance and timely repairs extend the longevity and functionality of jalousie windows. Here are the common maintenance tasks and repair issues you should do to keep your windows in good condition.

Routine Maintenance Tasks

Regular maintenance of jalousie windows includes cleaning the slats and tracks to prevent debris buildup, lubricating moving parts to ensure smooth operation, and inspecting seals and weatherstripping for wear. It’s also important to check the alignment of slats periodically to make sure they close properly. In coastal areas, cleaning salt deposits and checking for corrosion should be part of routine maintenance.

Common Repair Issues

Common repair issues for jalousie windows include replacing broken or cracked slats, adjusting misaligned slats, and repairing or replacing worn louver mechanisms. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and maintain the window’s functionality. While some repairs, such as replacing individual slats, can be relatively simple, more complex issues with the operating mechanism may require professional help.

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Our Conclusion

Jalousie windows offer unique benefits in terms of ventilation and aesthetic appeal, particularly in warm, humid climates. Their ability to provide airflow while offering some protection from rain makes them well-suited for tropical environments and certain architectural styles. However, their poor energy efficiency and security concerns limit their practicality in many modern applications.

For homeowners in appropriate climates or those looking to maintain a specific architectural style, jalousie windows can be a viable option. However, more energy-efficient and secure window types such as awning or casement windows are better choices for most homes, especially in areas with varied weather conditions. 

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FAQ About Jalousie Windows

What is the purpose of jalousie windows?

The purpose of jalousie windows is to allow for natural ventilation, even during a rainstorm. The slats are intended to let fresh air in while letting rain slide down and away from the window.

Do they still make jalousie windows?

They still make jalousie windows, but you may have trouble finding them. They’re much easier to get in Hawaii than in other states.

What is the difference between jalousie and louver?

Sometimes “jalousie” and “louver” are used interchangeably. Other times, a louvered window refers to one with fixed rather than adjustable slats. Additionally, “louvre windows” is the British term for jalousie windows. 

What is the difference between jalousie windows and awning windows?

Awning windows only have one glass pane that opens from a hinge at the top of the frame. Jalousie windows have multiple panes or slats on a single track that can open in parallel similar to window blinds. Awning windows also seal more tightly and can be used with or without internal window screens.

What is the most popular design style for jalousie windows?

The most popular design styles for jalousie windows are island- beach-style interior decor since they’re most popular in these climates.

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