How to Choose a Louver for Your HVAC or Building Envelope Project
Fixed, adjustable, sand trap, acoustic, or weatherproof: Goodwind's louver range covers five types. What each is for, real specs, and how to pick the right one, for MEP consultants and contractors.
A louver is a blade-based building envelope component that lets air pass through an opening while blocking rain, debris, or direct sightlines. Goodwind manufactures louvers in fixed, adjustable, sand trap, acoustic, and weatherproof types, engineered for ventilation, weather protection, and architectural integration on commercial, industrial, and residential buildings.
Types of Louvers
| Type | What It's Built For |
|---|---|
| Fixed | Blades set at a permanent angle; simplest option where airflow needs don't change |
| Adjustable | Blade angle can be changed to control airflow or shut off the opening |
| Sand Trap | Keeps wind-driven sand out of HVAC intakes; see our sand trap louver guide |
| Acoustic | Reduces noise transmission through the opening |
| Weatherproof | Built for exterior use with added rain and weather resistance |
Goodwind also manufactures a high capacity drum louver for applications that need a larger free area than a standard flat louver panel provides.
Material, Finish, and Coating Options
Louvers are available in aluminum, stainless steel, or galvanized steel, with a powder coated, anodized, or custom color finish. Coating options include zinc, no-zinc, and special coatings for corrosive or coastal environments.
Blade Angle
Blade angle is customizable at 0°, 15°, 30°, or 45°. A steeper angle generally improves weather resistance at the cost of some free area, so the right angle depends on how much rain or wind-driven debris the location is exposed to versus how much airflow the opening needs to pass.
How to Choose the Right Louver
For MEP Consultants at the Design Stage
Match the type to the actual exposure and function: weatherproof or sand trap for an exposed intake in a windy or dusty location, acoustic where the opening faces a noise-sensitive area, adjustable where airflow needs to be shut off or modulated, and fixed everywhere else. Blade angle and coating should follow from the site's weather exposure, not be left as a default.
For Contractors at Procurement Stage
Confirm type, material, finish, and blade angle against the drawing before ordering, since several types can look similar once installed but aren't interchangeable. Louvers are manufactured to size, so submit exact opening dimensions rather than rounding to a standard size.
FAQ
What types of louvers do you manufacture?
Fixed, adjustable, sand trap, acoustic, and weatherproof louvers, to suit a wide range of applications.
Can louvers be customized for size and finish?
Yes. Louvers can be customized for size, blade angle, material, and finish to meet specific project requirements.
Are Goodwind louvers suitable for exterior use?
Yes. Louvers are designed for both interior and exterior use, providing weather protection and ventilation.
How do I select the right louver for my application?
Selection depends on airflow requirements, weather conditions, and architectural needs. Contact Goodwind's team for guidance specific to your project.
Not sure which type fits your opening? Contact Goodwind for technical input, or see our guides on the sand trap louver and drum louver.