FAQ - Smart Tint Pro

Can we install this film on the top half of the glass only? We were thinking we wanted to keep the existing decals in place and install film from the decal up to the top of the panel.

Yes, Smart Tint has completed many projects with partial coverage as seen in our extensive media library.

WE STRONGLY ADVISE TO INSTALL OIN THE ENTIRE PANEL BEACUE OF THE EXPOSED EDGES THAT THE FILM WILL LEAVE ON THE GTLASS THAT MAY GET COMPROMISED DURE THE CLKEANING AND MAINTNCE PROCESS.

https://vimeo.com/smarttint

Is the Smart Tint™ energy efficient?

Yes, Smart Tint is considered an energy efficient and green product that consumes between 3 and 5 watts per meter squared. We provide Low Voltage Transformers to operate the technology between 48-60VAC.

Is it less expensive than smart glass?

Yes, Smart Cling Self Adhesive film is a fraction of the cost and no construction required. Smart Tint is also a semi permanent application and will be sealed in using the Smart Film Edge Sealant we provide.

Does it block the UV harmful rays?

Yes, Smart Tint blocks over 98% of the harmful UV rays in both its energized and un-energized state. https://shop.smarttint.com/Smart-Tint-offers-7-COLORS-custom-cut-pre-wired-and-ready-to-install-_b_6.html

Can we install this product ourselves?

Yes, we offer complete do it your self kits with practice pieces. Refer to our "How To Install" section for videos and step by step tutorials.

How much does Smart Tint™ cost?

Every Smart Tint project is different and we custom cut your material into almost any shape or size, pre-wire, test and send you a ready to install kit with a package price. Smart Tint, Inc offers contractor, dealer, and retail pricing on a sliding scale. Lead times play a key role in job pricing. We match your material sizes with other orders for maximum efficiency and pass the savings on to you.

How can I purchase or get a job quote?

If you would like to buy now our online shopping cart allows you to order per sheet of material by the square foot. Simply click the "Order by the Square Foot" link. If you would like to get a Quote then click the "Get a Quote" link and provide us the details on your project. https://www.smarttint.com/quotes.html

What is the difference between Smart Cling Self Adhesive and the NON-Adhesive backings?

Smart Tint offers a Smart Cling Self Adhesive that is thinner than the non-adhesive and widely used in the automotive industry because of its ability to contour to the complex curves of automotive glass. Smart Tint Non-Adhesive is very popular for projection screens, electronic blinds, white boards, high tech window treatments and mechanical installation techniques due to its rigidity. They both provide maximum clarity when energized and extreme privacy when powered off. Contact us today for pricing. https://www.smarttint.com/specs/specsheet-smart-tint.pdf

How does one fix these films both the (Smart Cling Self Adhesive or Non-Adhesive Smart Tint). Is there a special way of fixing them?

Go to www.HowToInstallSmartTint.com. The top of the page shows the Smart Cling Self Adhesive Dry installation and scroll down for the NON-Adhesive Demo Video.

Can the sheets be cut and joined?

Yes you can trim however it is recommended that you provide accurate measurements. Our edges are cut laser straight depending on the installation environment, and the seams will leave no gaps. We recommend you use this as an advantage and to isolate sections of the window so they can be operated independently.

Can a series of sheets be connected together to have one common control?

Absolutely. We can accommodate multiple sheets to be wired in parallel, no matter what the size of your project.

Is there a specification of the thickness of the glass that it will be installed on?

No, Smart Cling will adhere to any smooth surface and our NON-ADHESIVE can be hung like a curtain if necessary.

Do you deliver internationally?

Smart Tint, Inc ships worldwide and has completed projects all over the world.

Can we have a list of the colors that are available?

Here is a link to our colors page. http://shop.smarttint.com/Smart-Tint-now-offers-4-NEW-COLORS-_b_6.html

Can the sheets be fixed in any direction?

Yes, Smart Tint is custom manufactured to your exact dimensions and wire locations.

Are there warranties on the product?

Smart Tint stands behind our product with an Industry Leading 5 Year Warranty on material burnout. We offer extended warranty programs once a project has been approved. https://shop.smarttint.com/Standard-Warranty-Disclaimer-_b_69.html?draft=1

How long will it take for production and delivery?

This depends on material size, total quantity ordered and geographic shipping place. For expedited orders and authorized providers we can ship as fast as 48 hours from payment confirmation. This includes the 24 hours quality control run time each sheet receives prior to shipment.

Can Smart Tint be put in an interior pocketing sliding door that will travel 42"?

Smart Tint has specially priced packages for sliding door applications. We have multiple options for wiring logistics to operate a sliding door. All technical questions will be addressed during engineering time provided with every order. https://shop.smarttint.com/Smart-Tint-Sliding-Door-Package_p_15828.html

Clarity – What is the % of clear glass when the unit is not opaque?

Smart Cling Self Adhesive White material is 98% transparent when powered on and the clearest in the Industry. Smart Tint is the only film in the industry that outgases on its own.

Is it possible to get 100% blackout? If So, what %?

Smart Tint, Inc can provide a Black film which is the closest to blackout and the darkest film in the Industry, reading 0 on a light meter.

Is it possible to dim the Smart Tint?

Yes, Smart Tint is Dimmable using our Dimming Power Control Units which come with a dial knob & remote control. We also have an HX150 Dimming System which has RS485/RS232 Compatibility.

Do you have any tables showing the difference between clarity and blackout?

Smart Tint can offer you a sample kit to help familiarize yourself with our technology. We have many videos showcasing clarity in our extensive media library https://vimeo.com/smarttint http://shop.smarttint.com/Sample-Kit_p_1389.html

What is the life expectancy of the Smart Tint, if left on for say 8 hours a day?

Smart Tint is tested for a 4 million on/off cycle. Smart Tint can last 15-20 years when properly installed. Smart Tint draws only 4 watts per 10 sq feet. It is a green product.

Do you have Color Options? Or just White?

Smart Tint offers White, Grey, Charcoal Grey, Blue, Green, Red and can offer a sample kit to demonstrate before purchase.

Functionality – Is it Wi-Fi Compatible?

Smart Tint is compatible with most 3rd party home integration systems such as Crestron, Lutron, Alexa, Control 4. Smart Tint will provide program assistance during engineering time provided with every order.

Warranty? Please provide Terms and Conditions

Smart Tint provides an industry leading 5 year warranty on material burnout (yellow, cracking). All panels are to be inspected, & tested prior to installation. Photo and video must be sent to maintain warranty guidelines. https://shop.smarttint.com/Standard-Warranty-Disclaimer-_b_69.html?draft=1

Typical Lead Time?

Smart Tint can manufacture to meet your deadlines and typically will complete an order within 24-48 hours upon receipt of final drawings & warranty disclosure

Is Butt Jointed Possible?

Yes, Smart Tint can manufacture two panels to be butt ended together providing a virtually seamless install. Smart Tint has the largest manufacture size in the Industry with a max width of 72".

Is a matte white finish possible when film is opaque?

Smart Tint is a frosted white finish providing complete privacy when powered off opaque. Take a look at the videos in our extensive Vimeo library https://vimeo.com/smarttint

Are there different levels of opacity?

Yes, Smart Tint has the option to be dimmable and can be controlled by a switch, dial knob, or remote changing the opacity.

When Smart Tint is powered on is it blackout or does light go through?

Smart Tint operates powered on transparent / powered off opaque. When powered off it will block 99% of UV and sun light. Our Black film is the darkest in the Industry providing near black out technology.

What is the Max sizes possible?

Smart Cling Self Adhesive is our proprietary technology and can be manufactured to 72" on a side, the largest in the Industry.

Do you have recommended installers or can you do installation?

Smart Tint is the direct manufacturer of the technology and does not install, however we do work with a 3rd party network of installers who have experience with our technology. Once an order is placed we can recommend a local installer for you to coordinate with.

Is Smart Tint capable of being integrated w/ Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or other voice control platforms?

Yes, Smart Tint can operate with most 3rd party home integration systems such as Crestron, Lutron, Control 4, Alexa, etc. Smart Tint will provide engineering time with every order to assist with programming.

Is dimming programmable to adjust at set times or room temperatures?

Yes, Smart Tint has been proven to operate with most 3rd party timers, and temperature relays. Please contact Smart Tint and utilize engineering time with your order to assist with programming.

Does Smart Tint need to be hardwired in order to control with a Smart Phone?

Smart Tint can operate via 3rd party home integration systems on a hard-wired or non hard-wired system.

Do you have an android app?

Yes, Smart Tint will work with most 3rd party home integration systems such as Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, Crestron, Lutron, Savant, Control 4, etc. We will provide engineering time with your order to discuss programming.

Can Smart Tint be installed outside?

Yes, it's okay to install Smart Tint outdoors but be sure you run the perimeter of the film with Smart Film Edge Sealant to protect it from outdoor elements.

Is it compatible with Zwave or Zigbee?

No, Smart Tint needs a pure sine wave in order to operate properly. Alexa, Crestron, Lutron, Control 4 are all acceptable 3rd party control systems.

Can Smart Tint be installed onto curved glass?

Smart Tint can manufacture our Smart Cling Self Adhesive film to any shape and size. We will require a physical template be mailed to us for all odd shaped Smart Tint panels.

What is the Protocol to communicate with the Smart Tint HX150 Dimming System?

Smart Tint will send the Communication Protocol with every order that includes the HX150 Dimming system.

What is the number of electrical circuit to operate the Smart Tint?

Smart Tint is extremely efficient and it is correct to say that 15amp-110volts is more than sufficient to operate the entire project.

What is the official weight of the film?

Smart Tint official installed weight of our film is 60 grams per square foot with the front and back protective liners removed. Please note: The liners weight a total of 4.5 grams per liner x 2 = 9 grams.

How do you trim holes for door handles?

Smart Tint recommends you remove the door handles and dry fit the material. Once positioned perfectly you will proceed with Installation. With the film on the glass score and X in the center of the hole and then use a Razor at a 45 Degree angle to cut out the hole. Leave yourself 1/8" tolerance so the handle does not touch the film. You can also use the Smart Film Edge Sealant provided to seal in the hole and place the gromit over it.

When we turn the power off it takes up to 6 seconds on the black tint to turn back full opaque again is this correct, it is instant on the small samples?

You must be unplugging the power plug from the wall when you are testing the reaction times of your panel defaulting to it's opaque state. That's the capacitor in the power plug discharging voltage as it powers down. Here's the solution. wire in a switch in between the power plug and your Smart Tint, and you will see the material power off instantly, in milliseconds.

Do the transformers come with a 3 pin UK plug option?

Smart Tint can supply a Power Control Unit which steps the voltage down from 220/240VAC to the 60VAC that powers your Smart Tint. The power plug is compatible with most power plug adapters. Our units ship with US plugs attached.

Are there any temperature concerns we need to be worried about?

As long as the glass temperature does not drop below 35 degrees Fahrenheit there should be no Installation issues.

How to pair a Smart Tint Remote Control?

Check out Smart Tint power supply page:

Power Supply Page

When was Smart Glass Invented?

1984 – The Birth of PDLC Technology

Polymer-Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) technology was first patented by J.L. Fergason in the United States. His invention, based on a micro-emulsion method, allowed glass to switch between transparent and opaque states using an electric current. By 1987, Raychem Corporation secured exclusive patent rights. Early PDLC technology required high voltage, was expensive, and had a limited lifespan of fewer than three years. It had a haze factor of 12%, slow cycling speeds, and was sensitive to temperature variations.

For a complete timeline on the evolution of Smart Tint click here.

1999 – Smart Tint® is Born

Smart Tint revolutionized the industry by developing a low-voltage, energy-efficient switchable film, eliminating the need for costly Smart Glass. By embedding PDLC between two layers of polyethylene plastic, Smart Tint dramatically reduced haze to 4% and made the technology more accessible.

2012 – Patents & Industry Advancements

Smart Tint Inc. located in Stony Brook, New York secured multiple U.S. Patent and Trademark registrations for Smart Tint®, Smart Film®, and Smart Cling®. During this period, proprietary advancements further reduced the haze factor to less than 2%. The unique Smart Cling® backing allowed the film to self-outgas, preventing heat-induced glass fractures—an issue that plagued other self-adhesive films.

2020 – 20 Years of Leadership & NEC Certification

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Smart Tint became the only switchable film in the industry certified by the National Electric Code (NEC). It achieved an industry-leading haze factor of less than 1.5%, solidifying its reputation as the premier switchable film solution.

2022 – Smart Security Film: Riot Tint®

Smart Tint introduced Riot Tint®, the first Smart Security Film, which provides both privacy on demand and impact resistance. This fire-rated film withstands over 14,000 psi of tensile strength, making it the top choice for school districts and security-sensitive applications. Additionally, the Nano-Hard Shell Scratch-Resistant Coating was applied to enhance durability.

2024 – UL & ISO Certification

Smart Tint became the only U.S. and Canada-based manufacturer to achieve ETL approval, complying with UL standards and ISO quality control certifications. This milestone reinforced Smart Tint’s commitment to safety, quality, and compliance in the industry.

2025 – Two Decades of Proven Performance

With Smart Tint installations operating flawlessly since 2005, the brand continues to set the standard for performance, reliability, and industry leadership. Its proprietary technology has stood the test of time, proving to be the most advanced and trusted Smart Film solution worldwide. Smart Tint remains the only manufacturer with UL compliance, ISO quality certification, and NEC approval, reinforcing its position as the industry leader in switchable film technology.

How does Smart Glass work and what is Smart Glass?

Smart Glass is any glass that has Smart Tint installed on the surface of it or sandwiched in between 2 pieces of glass. The original old school smart glass was only available sandwiched in between 2 pieces of glass. This method was soon upgraded to a surface mount Smart Tint version for many important reasons. Here is a list of advantages of Genuine Smart Tint® w/ proprietary nano hard shell scratch resistant coating and proprietary Smart Cling® self adhesive peel-n-stick backing technology that is included with all of our Smart Film®. Genuine Smart Tint has the lowest haze rate of less than 1.5% providing the best performing Smart Film world wide!

Traditional Smart Glass is very expensive to transport, Install and needs to be cycled has the heat build up due to its embedded glass design requires a cool off period. Smart Tint is low voltage, NEC compliant and does not have to be cycled and is a fration of the cost of pre manufactured smart glass and can instantly convert any glass with its application.

Smart Tint applied Smart Glass transitions from transparent to opaque with the flick of a switch when power is applied.

While this may seem like magic, it is simply the interaction of the embedded PDLC or Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal technology and low voltage electricity. With power Genuine Smart Tint® Switchable electric Smart Film® turns clear and when the power is removed it turns private. Smart Tint also manufactures the reverse operating technology that Powers OFF Clear and Powers ON Private. Contact a Smart Tint project manager with any question and a free estimate for your project. All Smart Tint films are dimmable as well.

How do you install Smart Tint® and create Smart Glass?

For a comprehensive step by step Smart Film installation guide

go to: https://howtoinstallsmarttint.com/

enter password: SmartTintPro

Does Smart Film privacy film blocks harmful UV rays?

Yes, Genuine Smart Tint blocks over 98% of the harmful UV rays in both its energized and un-energized state.

Can customers install Smart Film themselves? DIY?

Smart Film requires a skilled hand, low voltage electrical wiring and a clean work environment. A professional installation is usually recommended but if you meet the above criteria and have read our how to install smart tint guide located at www.HowToInstallSmartTint.com using password: diy

then your answer is yes. Remember Smart Tint provides a dedicated project manager with every project to review your project scope and send you shop drawings to confirm all final measurement's and preferred wire locations on the film before it is shipped out. Pioneering the industry since 1999 Smart Tint brings the most expertise and a national electric code compliant complete turn key ready to install system to your project. Tip of the day: Measure 2x and we cut once.

Genuine Smart Tint® is the only ETL-certified Smart Film® in the industry that conforms to UL standards for both United States and Canada!

Is Smart Film Electric Smart Tint energy efficient?

Yes, It is considered a green product that consumes between 3 and 6 watts per meter squared.

What is the difference between Smart Film Self Adhesive and Smart Film NON-Adhesive backings?

Smart Tint manufactures a proprietary Smart Cling® Self Adhesive award winning backing on all of its films. It is the only peel and stick backing in the inductry that out gases on its own preventing solar fracturing. Perfect for wet , hot, damp environments such aas exterior facing glass, curtain wall systems, and bathrooms. Smart Cling Self Adhesive solved all the problems that traditional self adhesives created such as providing an easier installation with a more forgiving time sensitive adhesion process and glass cracking due to the in ability to out gas the hot temperatures of extreme sun exposure. We have it installed wo

Smart Tint also manufactures a Non-Adhesive switchable privacy film that has the ability to contour to the curves of various types of glass. Smart Film is very popular for projection screens, electronic blinds, white boards, and high tech window treatments. Smart Film switchable privacy film provides maximum clarity when energized and extreme privacy when powered off. The only difference between the two switchable films is that Self Adhesive has a peel and stick backing and our non-adhesive can be installed with a double sided adhesive clear 3m VHB tape.

How much does Smart Film cost?

Every Smart Film project is different and we custom manufacture your material into almost any shape or size, pre-wire, test and send you a complete ready to install system. Seeing on how Smart Tint has been around for over 20 years now there have been many 3rd party after market knock offs. These knock offs can been easiliy identified as they will not have the Genuine Smart Tint serial number on them as shown in the photo below.

Knock offs us older technology with inferior grade PDLC causing unacceptable performance haze in its energized state. Anything more that a 2.5% haze factor in its clear state is below the high Architectural grade standard of 1.5%. These 3rd party films also do not carry the ETL listed for UL standard's serial number identification. This is extremely important to comply with the national electric code for both the United States and Canada.

Being the direct soul source manufacturer for Genuine Smart Tint® We have the quickest lead times and turn around shipping times business. Most orders depending on size are manufactured and shipped out withing 2-5 business days of final paperwork confirmation. Over night expedited services are available upon request.

For premium architectural grade performance with our proprietary nano-hard shell scratch resistant coating and Smart Cling® Self adhesive backing you can budget anywhere from $35-$65 per square foot deppending on your project sizes and qty. We can also recommend one of our 2000 plus certified installers at sub contractor pricing from $23-$40 per square depending on project logistics. Our talented team of in house engineer's will assist with any system installation questions such as low voltage wiring, sliding doors, static windows, curtain wall systems, and provide a comprehensive knowledge base for 3rd party control integration such a s lutron, crestron, DMX, audrino etc.

To get a FREE estimate contact one of our project managers by clicking here.

Is Smart Tint National Electric Code compliant for the USA and Canada?

YES! Only Genuine Smart Tint is ETL certified and UL compliant for both the United States and Canada. Beware of 3rd party knock offs as they tend to use inferior manufacturing techniques, sub standard products and poor performing PDLC technology causing operational failure, poor performance and can provide a safety hazard.

Smart Tint is UL compliant and ETL certified for both the United States of America and Canada.

The Hidden Dangers of Non-ETL Certified and NON UL Compliant Smart Films

Using non-ETL certified films can pose serious safety risks, including electrical malfunctions, overheating, and even fire hazards. Smart Tint® is the only ETL-listed smart film in the industry, ensuring the highest level of safety and compliance with electrical standards.

Below are two images showcasing the dangers of knockoff, non-ETL listed films. One image highlights fire damage caused by poor-quality materials, while the other shows blackened burn marks dangerously close to a drop ceiling. These issues arise due to incorrect electrical wiring and substandard materials, which could lead to catastrophic failures.

With Smart Tint®’s ETL-certified technology, you can trust that our film meets the strictest safety requirements, preventing these hazards and providing reliable, high-performance results.

Learn more about the only ETL-Certified Smart Tint® in the industry.

Why genuine Smart Tint® and Smart Film® is the correct choice for your Electric Window Tint Smart Glass Project?

Industry-Leading Smart Film® Technology – Made in the USA

Smart Tint® is the original and most trusted name in switchable Smart Film® technology. We design, manufacture, and support our products 100% in the USA, ensuring the highest quality, fastest turnaround, and expert engineering support.

Unlike third-party resellers importing from China or Canada, Smart Tint® is the only manufacturer with:
✔ ETL listing for UL compliance in the U.S. and Canada
✔ Fire-rated & security-certified—used in schools, offices, and government buildings
✔ A 10+ year track record of durability

All of our systems comply with electric codes for the United States & Canada. We work with electricians, electrical inspectors, system integrators, contractors, builders, architects, designers, and DIYers alike for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

Manufactured in the USA—not resold by third-party companies.
100% American workforce with strict ISO quality control inspections.
UL-listed power supplies for safe and reliable operation.
Proprietary Nano Hardshell Technology = the most scratch-resistant Smart Film® available

Unlike 3rd party knock offs who market different grades of quality performance ranging from Classic Contractor/Builder Grade to Crystal to Ultra all of our Genuine Smart Tint® material is premium Architectural Grade with the lowest <1.5% haze factor in its clearest state and provides the best privacy in its private/opaque state. All of our technology is dimmable and extremely efficient.

" With Genuine Smart Tint® The Difference Is Clear! "

Pioneering Smart Film since 1999—over 25 years of expertise.
29 patents registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Smart Cling® Self-Adhesive Technology:
✅ The only film that outgasses on its own, preventing solar fracturing issues seen in knockoffs.
Proven longevity—installations running for 10+ years and counting

United States Patent and Trademark Office Active Registrations:

Industry-leading warranty for long-term durability.
Expert engineering support from 10+ year in-house specialists.
24/7 technical support to ensure your project’s success.

1,900+ certified installers in the U.S. & 550+ worldwide.
Optional templates Custom-cut to your exact specifications.
Choose your wire locations—ideal for doors, sliding panels, and unique applications.
Every order includes:
✅ Remote control & wall switch
✅ Engineering consultation to ensure seamless installation.

UL-listed power system for safe, low-voltage operation.
Seamlessly integrates with Crestron, Lutron, Savant, Arduino, and other control systems.
Doubles as a projection screen—turn any glass into a dynamic display.

Can this product be applied to an existing wood frame door?

Yes, you can Install Smart Cling Self Adhesive to an existing wood frame door. We have offer electric hinges and power transfer cable solutions to conceal and secure the wiring.

https://vimeo.com/80220499

Does your company provide installation services?

Smart Tint, Inc is the direct manufacturer of the technology. We do not provide Installation services, However we do work with a network of third party Installation companies whom we can recommend to you once a deposit has been placed towards your project. For DIY Installations we will provide a sample piece for you upon ordering so you can install a sample piece first. This will eliminate any questioning about how to work with Smart Tint. Remember Smart Tint is a dry install. As long as the Installer is careful and DOES NOT KINK OR DENT THE MATERIAL OR PULL THE WIRES OUT there should be no issues. Obviously a clean work environment is important. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

What is the control unit?

Smart Tint requires a Low Voltage Power Control Unit to operate the technology. We have a few different units depending on the project scope and client preference.of Dimming or On/Off only.

Can you "trim" the film on site....or do you need an absolute measurement from me before the panels are custom made?

The material is custom manufactured with special equipment to insure straight cuts. However you can cut the material if needed to add a logo, trim, etc. without compromising its effect. If absolutely necessary, you need to use a strong pair of scissors or sheers only as to apply pressure to both sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

General