Australia is subject to extreme weather and climate variability. In 2016, the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) noted that temperatures have increased by approximately 1°C each year since 1910. The resulting rise in temperatures has driven consumer preference for energy saving solutions that offer maximum functionality.
Due to our increasingly hot climate, energy use from air conditioners is rising, with a direct impact on household budgets. However, carefully selected products such as window louvre systems, have the ability to deliver versatility and energy efficiency within a climate sensitive design. According to the National Institute of Building Sciences, natural ventilation can save 10-30 per cent in total energy consumption in favourable conditions.
“The ventilation provided by louvre systems is reliant on natural forces, and accordingly reduces energy consumption and costs to its users, says Niels Verhaar, Product Manager at Doric. “Louvres use external air movement and pressure differences to cool an interior space instead of artificial, mechanical cooling provided by air conditioners.”
To be effective, louvres must balance the variables that can impact comfort, such as radiant and ambient temperature, humidity, and air motion, as well as the characteristics and activities of the occupants themselves.
Louvre windows achieve this balance by increasing circulation and ventilation, allowing natural breeze to enter an interior space. This not only opens up rooms and entire houses depending on design, but also acts as a form of passive cooling. As a result, louvres can play a significant role in keeping interior spaces cool during warmer months, managing humidity, and reducing condenstation build-up.
“Well-designed louvre systems can also provide window shading and allow users to control natural light levels,” said Mr Verhaar. “When correctly designed, such louvre systems should allow light to enter an interior space while minimising solar heat and damaging UV rays.”
In winter months, weather-tight designs can protect against the winter sun, as well as wind and rain. Louvres can help regulate indoor air temperature by keeping out cool air during cooler months. This additional functionality allows these window systems to offer year-round comfort in all types of climates.
Louvres are also useful solutions when seeking to create interior spaces that promote health and wellbeing. A Washington State University study determined that proper ventilation is “essential for a comfortable, healthy and productive indoor environment.” Additionally, the same study highlighted that natural ventilation can improve indoor air quality by reducing odours, humidity, dampness, and dust and dirt accumulation, all of which can negatively impact on the health of occupants.
The Doric Ventus louvres have been designed to offer consumers these environmental benefits and are manufactured using the highest quality materials and tested to Australian Standards.
With a 100 per cent vent opening, ergonomic handles, non-scratch UV stabilised powder coat, Ventus Louvres are built to withstand Australia’s harsh climate. In addition to excelling in high temperatures, they are also fully weather tight and easily resist wind, rain and other weather events. These systems can be used for windows as well as to enclose verandas, balconies and the area above existing balustrades.
Available in a wide range of colours, styles and finishes, the sleek design of Ventus Louvres can be matched to homes of any size and aesthetic. They are fully compliant with the fall prevention requirements set out in the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and meet the relevant BCA testing standards.
“A key concern for architects and home builders when considering window options is finding a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal. Louvres now come in a range of styles and colours, with options to suit any home look. They can also be positioned throughout the home to create natural airflow and reduce temperature extremes, meaning you can create the look and environment you want,”concludes Mr Verhaar.
Source: Doric