How do you clean windows behind louvre panels?

Are you including aluminium louvre screens in your building designs, particularly over windows for privacy or solar control? One factor that is often overlooked is how to wash the windows once the building is finished and the screens are in front. Without the right design, louvre screens can make window maintenance difficult, frustrating and sometimes nearly impossible. 

In this article, you’ll learn what design features can make maintenance easier and how to prevent common mistakes before they’re built into your project.

Design features for easier window access

Your ability to support long-term window access starts at the design stage. When specifying screen facade architecture louvre screens, several design features can simplify ongoing maintenance.

1. Blade size and spacing

Spacing the blades with a sufficient gap allows for the window washing brush to pass between the louvre blades. Typically, a 150mm gap is sufficient. This also applies to operable louvre blades, which can be opened to allow the brush to access the glass behind. 

2. Clasp bracket louvre systems

Systems like our clasp bracket louvre system allow the louvres to be spaced off the window with a sufficient gap. This allows a window washing brush to pass behind the panel and access the glass. 

3. Sliding systems

Putting the louvre panel onto a sliding track allows the panel to be pushed to one side, providing unimpeded access to the window glass. Simply slide the panel to one side, clean the glass, then return the panel to its original position. 

4. Hinged systems

Similar to sliding systems, hinged panels enable the louvre screen to be opened to provide unimpeded access to the window. 

5. Removable sections 

Designing part of the louvre screen to be removable means that the building residents can take some of the louvres out when the windows need cleaning. This option comes with a few downsides, including making the window cleaning job much bigger and exposing the louvres to the risk of marks and scratches. 

Another window consideration

On the subject of windows and louvres, there is another point that is often overlooked. That is allowing window sashes to open when a louvre screen is in front of the window. Imagine the frustration of opening the window for the first time, only for it to hit the louvre screen! This can also be easily overcome if it is thought about at the design stage.

The first option is to make the windows sliding. This is the best option as it provides maximum ventilation. It is worth noting that louvres can act as fall protection, allowing the windows to go right to the floor. 

The second option is to have restrictors on the window sashes and ensure that the louvres are spaced far enough off the cladding to allow the sash to open.

Don’t let window cleaning be an afterthought

Cleaning windows behind louvre screens doesn’t have to be a frustrating afterthought. With the right design decisions made early, you can ensure windows remain accessible for the long term.

The problem? Many designs overlook window access entirely until it’s too late. But now that you know what features make a difference, you can take proactive steps to avoid these common pitfalls.

Want more ideas? Download our free Projects brochure to see how different home designers have addressed similar challenges and explore options for your project.