How much does smart glass cost?
How much does smart glass cost?
$70 – $150 smart glass cost per square foot (with installation)
$25 – $55 smart film cost per square foot (with installation)
Smart glass & smart tint cost
Smart glass costs $70 to $150 per square foot installed and is a complete panel installed like traditional glass. Smart tint costs $25 to $55 per square foot for film you apply to existing glass. Smart windows cost $25 to $150 per square foot with installation, depending on the application type.
| Type | Average installed cost |
|---|---|
| Smart glass | $70 – $150 per square foot |
| Smart tint film | $25 – $55 per square foot* |
*DIY installation
Smart glass
Smart glass, also called switchable glass, costs $70 to $150 per square foot. Smart glass allows windows, glass doors, and other glass surfaces to switch between transparent and opaque states for privacy and light control.
Manufacturers fit the smart technology between the glass panels, integrate it into the framing system, or a combination of both. The most popular and widely used smart technology is Polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) smart glass. The following table details PDLC and other smart glass technologies.
| Type | Cost per square foot* | Technology | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polymer-dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC) | $85 – $150 | Active |
|
| Suspended particle devices (SPD) | $80 – $130 | Active |
|
| Electrochromic glass | $90 – $120 | Active |
|
| Photochromic glass | $70 – $100 | Passive |
|
| Thermochromic glass | $70 - $100 | Passive |
|
*Includes professional installation
As seen in the table, the technologies used for smart glass can be active or passive:
Active smart glass requires an electrical current to change from opaque to transparent and allows for more precise control over light transmission and privacy.
Passive smart glass technologies change their properties in response to environmental conditions, like light and temperature, without requiring electricity. These passive options are simpler and more cost-effective but offer less precise control.
Smart film or tint
Smart film or tint is a separate adhesive layer you apply to an existing glass surface. The tint material costs $25 to $55 per square foot. Professional installation adds $50 to $75 per hour on average. Smart film is a more cost-effective solution than smart glass, especially for smaller and DIY installations.
While smart film is cheaper than smart glass, it has a shorter lifespan. Exposure to UV light and temperature changes can cause the film to peel away from the glass. The quality of the underlying glass can also impact the film's performance. If the glass is too thin or has imperfections, scratches, or uneven areas, the film may not stick properly and can look distorted.
Professional installation can extend the lifespan of the smart film by preventing damage that often occurs during DIY installation.
Smart glass & film cost by size
The size of the window or glass panel is a key factor in determining the cost of smart glass. Smart glass and film costs $25 to $150 per square foot. Larger windows and bigger projects often come with a better price per square foot compared to smaller, individual windows due to bulk purchase discounts.
| Window size (inches) | Average smart glass cost* | Average smart film cost* |
|---|---|---|
| 24 x 24 | $280 – $600 | $125 – $250 |
| 24 x 36 | $420 – $900 | $175 – $350 |
| 24 x 48 | $560 – $1,200 | $250 – $500 |
| 36 x 48 | $840 – $1,800 | $350 – $725 |
| 36 x 60 | $1,050 – $2,250 | $450 – $1,000 |
| 48 x 60 | $1,400 – $3,000 | $600 – $1,200 |
| 72 x 48 | $1,700 – $3,600 | $700 – $1,400 |
*Includes professional installation
Smart glass cost by placement
Installers recommend smart glass in many areas of the home for energy efficiency, light control, and privacy. Switchable smart glass shower doors cost $1,300 to $2,700 for privacy control. Small bathroom windows cost $200 to $600 to adjust light and privacy. Smart glass skylights cost $500 to $8,000 to reduce glare and save energy.
| Location | Average cost* |
|---|---|
| Bathroom window cost | $200 – $600 |
| Shower door cost | $1,300 – $2,700 |
| Living room window | $1,000 – $3,600 |
| Office partition wall cost | $2,000 – $7,000 |
| Skylight cost | $500 – $8,000 |
*Includes professional installation
While you can apply smart film to existing bathroom windows, shower doors, and skylights, the material will have a limited lifespan due to the high humidity, frequent use, and UV exposure in these areas.
Smart glass cost factors
Several factors affect the cost of smart glass installation:
Size of the glass: The larger the window, the more the smart glass will cost.
Quantity ordered: The larger the order, the better the price per square foot.
Type of application: Smart glass requires electrical wiring and connection to a power source, which can result in higher installation costs compared to smart film.
Additional features or customization: Custom sizes, specialized coatings, or integrated controls can increase the overall cost.
DIY vs. professional installation: Hiring professionals for installation ensures proper fitting and functionality but adds to the overall cost.
Location: Electrician and window installer rates vary depending on the location. Smart glass installation is a specialized skill. If there are fewer qualified installers in your area, it may drive up the price due to limited competition.
Delivery: Some suppliers charge a delivery fee of $100 to $150 for smart film and $300 to $1,200 for smart glass, depending on your location and the order size.
Supplier and brand: Different suppliers and brands offer varying pricing structures and product quality, which can impact the overall cost and longevity of the product.
How to save money on smart glass installation
Careful planning and research can help make smart glass a more affordable upgrade. These tips can help you save on the total project costs:
Buy in bulk: Purchasing smart glass or film in larger quantities can provide significant per-square-foot discounts. Orders over 100 square feet have costs as low as $70 to $100 per square foot, compared to $130 to $150 per square foot for smaller single-unit orders.
Look for financial Incentives: Homeowners may be eligible for tax credits or rebates like the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, which can help offset the upfront installation costs.
Opt for standard sizes: Smart glass panels in standard sizes are more cost-effective than custom sizes.
Negotiate with suppliers: Negotiate pricing with suppliers and contractors, especially if you're purchasing in bulk or bundling multiple services.
Regular maintenance: Invest in regular maintenance and upkeep to prevent costly repairs or replacements down the line, extending the lifespan of your smart glass.
Smart glass pros and cons
Smart glass windows are an appealing home upgrade, offering energy savings, comfort, and privacy control while adding value to a home. Smart windows are also convenient, with windows controlled remotely through a smartphone app or integrated into your smart home system.
The following table details the pros and cons of smart glass windows:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Smart glass FAQs
What is smart glass and how does it work?
Smart glass, also called switchable glass, is a type of glass that changes from clear to frosted on demand. Smart glass works by using specialized coatings, films, or materials that can change their optical and thermal properties in response to electrical charges, light exposure, or temperature changes.
What is the difference between smart glass and smart film?
Smart Glass is a complete unit that comes as a pre-manufactured panel with the smart technology sandwiched between two glass panes or integrated into the framing structure. Smart glass panels replace your existing windows or doors.
Smart film, on the other hand, is a thin film applied to an existing glass surface, similar to a window tint. The simple installation makes it a more budget-friendly option.
How long does smart glass last?
High-quality smart glass made with laminated and tempered safety glass can last 20 to 30 years. However, smart film products generally have a shorter lifespan of 10 to 20 years, as they are not as protected as the glass itself. The quality of the application, high humidity, frequent use, and UV exposure can all affect the lifespan.
How are smart glass and smart film installed?
Installers place smart glass similar to traditional glass but with a power source connection. In contrast, low-voltage smart film does not require an electrical connection. Installers apply the self-adhesive smart film directly onto the existing glass surface, similar to window tinting.
Both products are best installed by a professional to ensure proper handling, electrical wiring, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines—all of which are important for the product to function correctly and safely over time.
Can I install smart glass windows myself?
While you can install smart glass windows yourself, professional installation is recommended. Most smart glass types require electrical wiring to connect to a power source and control system. Unless you're a qualified electrician, it's best to leave this part to a professional to ensure it's done safely and up to code.
Getting estimates from smart window installers
If you’re considering adding smart windows to your smart home, follow these suggestions to find the best smart glass installer near you:
Get quotes from multiple installers that specialize in smart glass and film.
Ensure they are licensed, bonded, and insured for your protection.
Ask about their experience, warranties, and post-installation support.
Explore tax credits or rebates that can offset the initial costs.
Ask if the installer or manufacturer offers financing options.
Don’t forget to factor in ongoing maintenance costs when budgeting for the project.
Questions to ask a smart window installer
Ask these questions to evaluate the installer's experience, costs, process, and guarantees to ensure you select the right partner for your smart window project:
What is your experience with smart glass or film installation?
What certifications or training do you have from smart glass or film manufacturers?
Do you have a portfolio of your past smart glass projects?
Can you provide references from your past projects?
What are the typical costs for smart glass or film installation?
Do you offer any financing options?
Will this purchase qualify for any tax credits or rebates?
What is your work process and timeline for the project?
What warranties or guarantees do you provide for the product and installation?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.