Louver dampers are best applied to balance or control flow. The normal leak path of 0.7% of duct area produces a three to five percent leak rate in average applications.As a general rule, a damper should be used in the middle third of the control range for best results. This gives equal percentage in either direction should the need arise.A variety of options are available. Metallic spring seals, sealed (dust tight) blade ends, shear seals, and many materials are available.