Louver width changes three things: how much you see through an open shutter, how many louvers the panel has, and how deep the opening needs to be.
| Louver width | Where it suits |
|---|---|
| 2.5 in (64 mm) | Small windows and a traditional look. More louvers, so less view when open. |
| 3.5 in (89 mm) | The middle ground most windows suit. |
| 4.5 in (114 mm) | Large windows and doors. Fewest louvers and the widest view when open, but the window needs more depth. |
Depth
A louver swings through an arc as it tilts. The wider the louver, the more room it needs in front of the glass, handles and cranks. That’s why the designer asks for the opening depth: we check it against the louver you chose and tell you if it won’t clear.
Proportion
On a small window, wide louvers can look oversized because there are only a few of them. On a large window or a door, narrow louvers can look busy. When in doubt, 3.5 inches suits most windows.