What factors need to be considered when specifying acoustic louvres?

Every project brings its own requirements, but a successful acoustic louvre specification is guided by a set of core criteria: acoustic performance, airflow performance, resistance to weather and rain penetration, site conditions, internal building use, and aesthetic integration. 

Acoustic Performance

Selecting the right acoustic louvre begins with defining the acoustic requirement. This includes identifying the target sound reduction levels, expressed in Rw (Weighted Sound Reduction) or SRI (Sound Reduction Index) values, based on planning constraints, environmental noise levels, or internal comfort expectations. Higher performance often requires deeper louvre profiles or double-bank configurations, so collaboration with an acoustic consultant is key to ensuring the required reduction is achieved.

Airflow and Pressure Drop

Another fundamental consideration is airflow efficiency. Acoustic louvres, due to their internal baffles, typically offer a lower free area than standard ventilation louvres. This reduction in free area results in a higher pressure drop, which can affect fan effectiveness and increase energy usage. Reviewing data on pressure drop versus airflow curves is essential to ensure that the system is correctly sized and that ventilation targets are achievable without compromising acoustic performance.

Weather Protection

Environmental exposure also plays a role in product selection. While some louvres are designed to provide weather protection and achieve a Class A rain defence rating, this level of performance may not be necessary in all applications. In covered plant areas or sheltered installations, louvres with moderate weather resistance and superior sound attenuation may offer a better overall balance. Specifying a higher level of rain defence than necessary can reduce ventilation efficiency and increase fan energy requirements, leading to higher long-term operational costs. Selection should be guided by the site’s actual weather exposure and acoustic performance needs.

Aesthetic Integration

As acoustic louvres often form a visible part of the rooftop plant area, their integration into the architectural aesthetic is another important aspect of specification. Blade profiles, frame depths, colours, and finishes can be selected to complement or match the building’s design language. In situations where both screening and noise control are needed, such as around HVAC units or generators, acoustic louvres can serve dual purposes, providing both visual concealment and high-performance sound attenuation.