Smart Windows: An Introduction To New Window System Technology

15 October 2019

Technology is constantly evolving, now more than ever before. From the latest smartphones to wearable tech, it has made massive leaps in the last few decades.

The home improvement sector is no exception, with lights, heating controls and even kitchen appliances now all becoming ‘smart’. 

Windows

What does it mean to be a ‘smart’ product? Smart products are able use information about themselves and about the environment in which they run, and are able to inter-operate with other products. They are controlled through the internet, usually through a smartphone app.

So, if we can control our heating and our lights from our phones, what possibilities does the double glazing industry have that will allow us to catch up? When are we going to start seeing new, practical improvements to windows? 

With the introduction of smart windows on the horizon, we might not be too far off…

What are the benefits of smart windows?

Offering practical solutions to everyday problems, homeowners are taking kindly to smart technology, which is why so many manufacturers are developing ‘smart’ solutions in their products.

While some instances are less practical than others, smart windows are making peoples’ lives much easier. 

For example, if an elderly person living independently leaves a window wide open during the night, the smart window can notify a family member, who is then able to contact or visit the relative to secure the home for them.

Smart windows can even tell if a closed window has been locked, therefore giving homeowners greater insight into the security of their home at all times.

Some see smart tech as unnecessary or even just a fad, however, its applications like this where it will really shine.

What are the benefits for installers? 

Smart windows offer great security benefits for homeowners, but what good are they to installers? 

High-value

As with all new technology, consumers are willing to pay more for the additional functionality and practicality that it brings.

And thanks to the added security of smart windows, homeowners don’t just view the product as a next-generation window, but as a sound investment in their home security. 

Offering the fantastic benefits of uPVC as well, this all comes together to allow suppliers to charge more for the new technology, as it is simply leaps and bounds ahead of the rest. After all, can homeowners really put a price on the added safety and security of their homes?

With such advanced technology, it would be fair to assume that installers would have to be specialists in smart technology to offer the product, however this isn’t the case.

Installation

On the outside, there’s no difference between a conventional window and a smart window – all the technology is internal.

Not only does this mean that homeowners needn’t compromise on the look of their windows, but also means that installers can install smart windows as efficiently as they would a conventional one.

Many new technologies released nowadays require specialist training and/or qualifications to install, however smart windows have been developed with both the installer and the homeowner in mind.

Smart windows vs smart glass? What’s the difference?

Smart windows are not to be confused with smart glass.

Smart glass is a completely different piece of technology. Rather than showing homeowners the status of their window openings, smart glass is a visual solution.

Most often found in offices, smart glass can go from transparent (see-through) to translucent (blurry) at the touch of a button.

Essentially, smart glass’ technology lies in the actual glass, while the technology of smart windows is found in the frames. Although they’re both very practical, smart glass is mainly found in corporate environments, while smart windows are a residential solution.

But what about smart doors?

With all this talk of smart windows, you might be wondering what about doors?

In actual fact, doors have already begun to receive the smart products treatment.

From smart doorbells from the likes of Google and Amazon, to smart locks from Yale and other door lock manufacturers, it’s already possible for homeowners to make their doors ‘smart’.

Smart door technology has predominantly focused on residential projects, being closely tied to smart home devices.

TruFrame’s focus on security and bringing value to the installer

TruFrame constantly aims to offer its installers the best possible products, therefore keeping them at the forefront of the double glazing industry and in turn, ensuring our installers are content with the service we provide.

Our difference is that we place quality, products, delivery and service above all else. 

We don’t believe smart windows to be a “fad”. 

We believe it’s the next step in double glazing technology thanks to its benefits of increased safety and security for homeowners. 

We’re excited to see where this technology goes and will continue to work with all our installers to offer unparalleled trade support.

If you have any questions regarding smart window technology, simply get in touch with our friendly team today who will be able to answer any questions you may have on the topic.