How To Seal Jalousie Windows | [Innovative Ways]

How to seal Jalousie windows cost-effectively?

Sealing is one of the important steps of soundproofing the Jalousie windows. In this post, I will throw some light on the steps that you need to follow to soundproof the Jalousie windows. Well, the soundproofing process also includes the sealing steps.

The Jalousie windows are one of the most popular sub-categories of windows which are known for its elegance and beauty.

You can't expect a better product than the Jalousie window when wood and glass are combined to build a product.

Because of its functionality and uniqueness, the window is widely used in offices and homes.

Don't get confused if someone asks for the Louver windows, a synonym for Jalousie.

[Also Read]: Best Quiet Propane Generators for RVs

Though the beauty of this window adds elegance to the home/office decor still the Jalousie is popular for its uniqueness.

Let's have a brief discussion on what makes this product so unique.

• Louvers are in great demand because of their ability to maximize the airflow. Airflow optimization gives Louver an upper hand over its competitor, and it's the result of the strategic design.
• Depending upon your need, you can leave the panel wide open or slightly open. I prefer to open the panels slightly on cold days.
• Needless to say, they can be easily installed. and also gives flexibility to its users.

Trust me, I love this window to the core of my heart. However, the noise was a big issue when I installed the Louver first time in my office.

Unfortunately, you encounter different forms of sound with the Louver windows. If you have a perception that by closing the window, you will get rid of the unwanted noise, then let me tell you, you are absolutely wrong. 

If the window is NOT sealed or soundproof, you don't have any option but to bear with the noise.

Other than the external noise, the Louvers itself produce sounds such as creaking, scraping etc.

When it comes to soundproofing the Louvers, the process is entirely different as compared to the normal window because of its unique structure.

There is a big problem with the Jalousie window, they maximize the airflow, and you know that the NOISE uses air as a medium to travel from source to destination. However, maximizing the airflow simply means maximizing the noise.

So, what's the solution?

Best Way To Soundproof Jalousie Windows

There are numerous ways to soundproof a Jalousie window. However, we will discuss the top 6 ways that are NOT only effective but also, budget-friendly.

• Sealing the Jalousie with Weatherstrips
• Installing Storm Windows
• Soundproof Curtains/Blankets
• Acoustical Caulks
• Purchase Acoustic Jalousies
• Installing Blinds/Shutters

[Related]: How to soundproof a window cheaply?

1. Seal with Weatherstrips

To get rid of the unwanted noise sealing is the first and the foremost method. If you overlook this method, then none of the aforementioned methods will help you.

The reason I recommend the weatherstrip for the sealing purpose is that it is really easy to compress it between the tiny spaces in the window frame.

For the Louver window, the strips have to be placed across the mating edge of each pane.

The process is quite simple and, you can do it without any professional help.

Some tools and materials that you will require are as follows:

• Screwdriver
• Gloves
• Cutter
• Insulating Strips

1.  Assuming the Jalousie consists of glasses, remove the glass panes from the window structure using gloves and screwdriver. If it is made of some other material then also follow the aforementioned step.
2. The weatherstrip comes with an adhesive side, so peel off the adhesive covering and put it to work.
3. You need to start from the first pane and fill up the spaces between the panes. Once you reach the end of a pane, use a cutter to cut the strip.
4. Use the screwdriver tip to push the strip tightly in between the panes.
5. Follow the same process for all the panes.
6. Once you have applied the strips, the panes will be less flexible, and thus will behave similarly to a normal window.
7. Insulating the window with the insulating strips will definitely make it more energy efficient.

For sealing purpose, you can also try this product available at Amazon.

2. Install Storm Windows

The other option that is highly feasible is the storm window. In the last couple of years, I have found a sudden increase in the demand of the storm windows.

A storm window is a unique window either installed outside or inside of the main window.

To increase the overall soundproofing, you can also soundproof this window using some highly effective soundproofing materials.

The storm window acts as an additional soundproof layer against the unwanted noise.

You may install it by yourself. However, I will advise you to take the help of a professional because an improper installation can put all your effort into vain.

It is advisable to have a look at all the materials and tools needed for this purpose.

• Screwdriver attachment
• Storm window
• Caulk
• Caulk drill
• Hammer
• Utility knife
• Level
• Measuring tape
• Dust mask

1. Calculate the top, bottom, and middle width of the window with the help of measuring tape.
2. They may not have the same measurement. However, keep in mind that the difference between the measurement shouldn't be more than 2 inches.
3. Measure the height of the window from outside.
4. Consider the lowest measurement to order the storm window.
5. It is highly advisable to use the dusk mask after removing the loose paint from the window.
6. Apply caulk along the edge of the storm window but remember to exclude the bottom part.
7. Now screw the storm window into the window frame.
8. Take help of hammer and utility knife.
9. Install the expander tightly, and also assure that after the installation, storm window opens and closes without any obstacle.
10. In case, the movement of the storm window isn't hassle-free, then it is highly advisable to contact a soundproof consultant.

3. Soundproof Blankets/Curtains

Soundproof blankets/curtains consist of a layer of soundproofing materials. These materials absorb the unwanted noise in their threads. 

The thicker the blankets the better the soundproofing capabilities.

The same holds true with the curtains as well. These curtains are great at reducing the echo caused due to airborne noise.

The "moving blankets" are very heavy and thick, and the primary use of these blankets are to safeguard household appliances, furniture etc during transportation. However, they are very effective in sound dampening.

It is highly advisable to buy a soundproof curtain with the installed grommets.

I have written a detailed article on a soundproof blanket as well as a soundproof curtain, and the good news is that it includes the buying guide also.

The installation process for both of them is quite simple, and you can go ahead and do-it-yourself. However, you need to keep in mind that the rods used should be strong enough to bear the load of these materials.

4. Acoustic Caulk

As discussed earlier also, soundproofing a window can't be complete without the use of an acoustic caulk. 

I recommend you to purchase a sealant and follow the manufacturer instruction.

It is highly advisable to seal all the holes, gaps, and cracks with the sealant for the optimum result. If a crack is left, sound can travel through it making all the efforts zero.

Remember, to cover your eyes, hand, and mouth while applying the sealant.

I recommend to leave the sealant to dry for at least 48 hours. Apply the sealant at the corner of the windows, and at all the visible gaps, cracks etc.

To enhance the outcome, you can install blinds and shutters.

5. Acoustic Jalousie Windows

First of all, it's a costly method, and you should only consider it if the outcome of the aforementioned isn't optimum.

The latest design of the Jalousie windows have taken into consideration all the previous problems.

• Improved soundproofing
• Complete protection
• Improved energy capabilities

6. Installing Blinds and Soundproof Shutters

Blinds alone aren't the solution. You can use it as a supplementary to enhance the soundproofing capabilities of the Jalousie window. Remember, the thicker the blinds the better they are at sound absorption.

Soundproof shutters are effective and can dampen the noise. They are a better option as compared to the blinds. However, for the optimum result, you need to support shutters with the caulking.

Wrapping UP:

I hope this article will add some value. I can assure you that by following the step by step methods discussed in this post can definitely help you to get the best out of Jalousie windows.

Feel free to share the methods that you follow to seal Jalousie window.