Jalousie windows, or louvered windows, are made up of slats that can open and close like blinds. Their main advantages are excellent airflow and appealing aesthetics for some homeowners. Unfortunately, they are also known for poor energy efficiency and security — so most homeowners will fare better choosing from more popular types of windows.
These windows were patented in the United States in 1901 by Joseph W. Walker, although similar windows were used in parts of France since around the 18th century. Jalousie windows were once popular in mid-century homes, particularly in coastal, warm climates such as Florida and Hawaii.
We go over the origins of the jalousie windows, how they work, their typical costs and alternative window styles should you prefer a different style.
What types of jalousie windows are there?
Jalousie comes from the French word for “jealousy,” and may also mean “screen or shield.” Etymologists speculate that these windows got their name due to their ability to shield homeowners inside from neighbors’ jealous glances.
Jalousie windows are made from aluminum, glass and acrylic, though aluminum is the favored choice. “Consumers have shown a marked preference for aluminum windows that can last more than 30 years with basic care and maintenance,” said Jay Sanders, a licensed contractor and owner of Baltimore home remodeling company Castle Dream Construction.
Aluminum is resistant to rust, which can help minimize wear and tear on the window. Of course, glass is optimal to let light into the house even when the slats are closed.
How do jalousie windows work?
If you’ve ever lived in a home with Venetian blinds, the appearance of jalousie windows should be familiar. The windows have overlapping horizontal slats that you operate with a hand crank to let in fresh air for natural ventilation. This might be a pleasant way to encourage airflow in enclosed porches or sunrooms.
“You must clean the slats every few days and lubricate the parts once a year, preferably with a silicone-based lubricant,” said Sanders. “Ensure that dirt and dust do not settle on the windows, as they cause wear and tear.”
If a glass slat breaks, you may be able to replace individual slats by having a new one made by a glass cutter.
How much do jalousie windows cost?
We found companies offering new or reused windows for $425–$450. These prices may not reflect accurate costs in your area, because many window companies do not offer jalousie windows. Some stores, such as City Mill, may offer some replacement hardware for the crank but not offer the windows themselves.
We requested window quotes for a randomly chosen address in Miami, Florida (where jalousie windows were once popular). None of the four companies that reached out offered jalousie windows at all.
The actual cost of jalousie windows may depend heavily on your ability to find a provider and whether the windows need to be custom-made.
Should you get jalousie windows?
Generally speaking, jalousies are not the best windows for modern houses. They may be suitable in a few specific cases, but you might do better considering other window options before committing to this type.
The cons far outweigh these pros, chief among them being leakage and water flow into the home which can cause damage over time.
Justin Conzemius
Who should buy jalousie windows
The benefits of jalousie windows are limited, but some people still enjoy them.
“Window technology and development have come a long way since jalousie windows were introduced in the 18th century. The pros are very limited, [but] they can offer privacy and provide airflow,” said Justin Conzemius, vice president and general manager at Andersen Corporation.
If you are interested in as much natural ventilation as possible, you might appreciate how jalousie windows can help air circulate throughout your home. Classic mid-century homes in historic parts of Hawaii or Florida may have been built with jalousies. You might prefer to preserve the original look with modern jalousie windows.
Tilting your jalousie windows correctly may prevent passersby from peeking inside the house while allowing fresh air inside. This privacy can be a positive feature.
Jalousie windows work best for people living in a mild, temperate climate and ideally in a quiet, safe neighborhood. Homeowners looking for replacement windows may also prefer to keep the original style.
Who should not buy jalousie windows
Before air conditioning was widely available, jalousie windows may have offered more distinct advantages to freshen and cool a home. The cons of jalousie windows may bring more trouble for homeowners than the advantages are worth.
“The cons far outweigh these pros, chief among them being leakage and water flow into the home which can cause damage over time,” said Conzemius. “They are not energy-efficient because they don’t seal tightly with the home, are hard to clean and maintain, and present a security concern as the window plates can be manipulated or easily broken by intruders,” he added.
The glass panes of standard windows fit tightly into the window frame. Because jalousies work like window blinds, creating an airtight seal is impossible.
Besides leaking air-conditioned air out, gaps in jalousie window slats can let dust and insects in. A jalousie window’s main functionality is ventilation — if you aren’t comfortable with elements of the outside coming in, you’ll likely end up fighting what your windows were built to do. Jalousie windows are also prone to rust and water leaking.
Jalousie windows are not the best option if you are concerned about potential break-ins. An intruder can gain access by moving or taking out a few slats. This can be done more quietly than breaking a standard window, so security is a concern.
Overall, if your climate fluctuates enough that you need temperature control in your home, jalousie windows could cost you more in energy than windows with a stronger seal.
What are some jalousie window alternatives?
Replacement windows can update the style and functionality of your home.
“There are many window options today that are better suited for every type of home. For example, if you like the idea of a jalousie window, consider an awning window instead, which allows for airflow, protects your home and gives you open sightlines and plenty of sunlight,” said Conzemius.
Different types of windows might suit your needs and offer a charming aesthetic while offering some performance benefits over jalousie windows. For example, casement windows also open outward on a hand crank. They may be easier to shut tightly than jalousies. Awning windows have large glass panes that can tilt outward to let in fresh air even during a rainstorm (the tilt of the glass shields the interior against rain getting in).
The best new windows for your house should suit your climate and help you maximize your home’s energy efficiency.
What’s next?
If you love a jalousie or louver window for your home, you may want to contact a window installation company in your area to get a sense of which companies offer jalousie windows and what replacement costs look like.
You might also want to consider which other window options are a good match for your home and offer the natural ventilation you’re looking for. You may find that a new window style could offer you more advantages than louvered windows.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics.
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