How Long Do Smart Window Film and Smart Glass Last?

Many people have seen the viral sensation on TikTok and Instagram: glass that turns opaque at the push of a button, and called it fake, AI, or camera tricks. But it is not. This is the cutting-edge tech of smart glass and smart film, and it is now on offer from Solar Screen.

Using PDLC (polymer dispersed liquid crystal) tech, smart glass and smart film go from clear as soda water to opaque as milk when a voltage is applied. It is privacy on demand, providing total concealment when you need it without sacrificing the view when you don’t.

For professionals in the architecture or contracting trades, smart glass — which has an integrated PDLC layer — is an incredible option to offer clients. For homeowners, smart film provides the same functionality, retrofitted.

A great question though, is: how long do these products last?

Great premise, but is it durable?

Smart film and smart glass have incredible lifespans. Depending on quality and usage, smart glass can last two to three decades. And if maintained properly, it will be good for many years longer.

Smart film is not quite as durable, but it’s still not a disposable product. Smart film would be good for ten years or more and can last as long as twenty. The quality smart film and smart glass offered by Solar Screen are not novelty products. They are built to last a generation.

It bears saying that smart film installations are not an easy DIY job, but should be preferably done by industry professionals, such as Solar Screen. Professional installation will optimize performance and enhance the product’s longevity. Smart glass and smart films are great investments; getting a pro to do the job will ensure the investment pays off decades into the future.

How can I make my smart glass last?

This is a great question, and with proper care, your smart film and smart glass can last much longer than it says on the box. Firstly, the quality of the product impacts lifespan. Some products may cost a bit more, but can last much longer. Secondly, expert installation boosts the product’s lifespan and ensures optimal durability.

The bad news is that the environment can impact durability. Harsh weather conditions can impact the product’s lifespan, and pollutants can degrade the materials over time.

As far as maintenance goes, proper cleaning will definitely extend the glass or film’s lifespan. ‘Proper’ in this case means ammonia-free cleaning materials without abrasives or other harsh chemicals. Basically, treat it like you would treat your TV screen, and do not take a scourer to it!

Inspections are your friend. Regular assessments by a professional can spot early signs of degradation, which can be remedied before total replacement is necessary. Minor fixes — like replacing a faulty transformer, repairing edge seals, or reapplying sections of film — can extend the product’s life and performance.

Proactive care is infinitely better for your peace of mind and your wallet than a costly replacement that could have been avoided.

When should I consider replacing my smart glass or smart film?

The first warning sign that your smart film or smart glass is getting long in the tooth is reduced clarity and/or opacity. This means the PDLC is wearing out, and it could be time to consider replacement. The second warning is that it could be time to refurbish your smart glass if it is cracking, bubbling, or discoloring. This indicates that the product has done its duty and is now ready to be put to pasture. And then, as the pace of technology advances in the modern world, newer tech could make an excellent case for replacing older tech.

This all sounds good, but is it green?

In a word, yes. While smart glass and smart film are presently difficult to recycle, smart film and smart glass offset the environmental impact by reducing the need for artificial lighting and minimizing heat gain or loss. Over time, this leads to lower energy consumption, reduced reliance on HVAC systems, and a smaller carbon footprint, making it an eco-smart choice for both residential and commercial spaces.

Final thoughts:

Smart glass and smart film are absolute game changers in residential, commercial, industrial, and medical fields. They give privacy when it’s needed and clarity when you want, all at the press of a button, reframes how homeowners and professionals view their glass installations. The versatility of this product, not to mention its sheer handiness, adds a useful, practical, and aesthetic element to any office, home, or showroom.

And the kicker: it is smart in more ways than one. Smart film and smart glass can seamlessly fit in with smart home automation. By integrating with systems like Google Home, Alexa, or Control4, users can control the opacity with voice commands, mobile apps, or programmed schedules. Some systems even allow the glass to respond to ambient light or occupancy sensors, adding another layer of energy efficiency and convenience.

Smart glass and smart film may seem like science fiction or fantasies from the future, but they are today’s technology available right now from Solar Screen.