Question 1

What is switchable smart film?

Accepted Answer

Switchable smart film — also called PDLC film, electric privacy film, or smart window film — is a retrofit glazing technology that transforms existing glass into an on-demand privacy surface. Standard PriviFilm grades are opaque without power and switch clear when energised through the correctly matched transformer. Exact voltage, optical performance and switching time depend on the selected grade.

Question 2

How does PDLC smart film work?

Accepted Answer

PDLC technology suspends liquid crystal molecules in a polymer matrix between conductive layers. In standard privacy grades, the unpowered molecules scatter light to create an opaque appearance; power supplied through the matched transformer aligns them and makes the film transparent. Exact transmission, haze, voltage and switching time vary by grade.

Question 3

How much does smart film cost?

Accepted Answer

Supply-only PriviFilm starts at £275/m² + VAT and surveyed supply-and-fit starts at £350/m² + VAT for suitable projects. Final cost depends on pane sizes, preparation, access, controls, electrics and location. Compare complete quotations with replacement smart glass.

Question 4

Can PriviFilm™ be retrofitted to existing glass?

Accepted Answer

Yes — this is the primary advantage of PriviFilm™. The film can be applied to most existing glass surfaces including single glazing, double glazing, and laminated glass, without the need for glass replacement.

Question 5

How long does smart film installation take?

Accepted Answer

Some smaller, suitable installations may be completed within a day. Larger or more complex projects take longer, and the programme is confirmed after survey. Replacement smart glass generally requires additional factory manufacture and glazing work.

Question 6

What warranty coverage is provided?

Accepted Answer

Warranty cover depends on the exact PriviFilm grade, components, installation route and written project terms. Forti Nova supplies the applicable warranty information with the selected system; technical lifespan figures are not a substitute for those written terms.

Question 7

Does more than 100,000 operating hours mean a 20-year warranty?

Accepted Answer

No. More than 100,000 operating hours is a manufacturer technical-lifetime figure shown in the product-family comparison. It is not a calendar-life guarantee or warranty period. See the Smart Film Specification page and confirm the written warranty for the exact quoted grade.

Question 8

Can I become a PriviFilm partner or approved installer?

Accepted Answer

Qualified trade professionals can apply for hands-on installation training and the approved-contractor pathway. Approval, territory availability, project opportunities and commercial terms are subject to assessment and written agreement.

Question 9

What UK regions are available for new PriviFilm partners?

Accepted Answer

Most UK regions are currently open for partner applications including Yorkshire, Midlands, South East, South West, East of England, Wales, Scotland, London, and the North East. Contact us to confirm availability in your specific area. Territories are allocated on a first-come, qualified basis.

Question 10

Does PriviFilm work with building management systems (BMS)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. PriviFilm™ PDLC smart film can be integrated with building management systems, room booking software (such as Crestron and AMX), smart home systems, and automation platforms. The film is controlled via standard low-voltage switching, making integration with most commercial control systems straightforward.

Question 11

What is smart glass?

Accepted Answer

Smart glass is glazing manufactured with technology that changes its optical state. PDLC switchable glass changes between opaque and clear; electrochromic glass changes tint more gradually. Retrofit smart film offers a related privacy function without replacing suitable existing glass.

Question 12

How does smart glass work?

Accepted Answer

PDLC smart glass uses an electrical supply to align liquid crystals inside a laminated glazing unit. Power off scatters light for privacy; power on aligns the crystals so the glass becomes clear. Other smart-glass technologies, such as electrochromic glass, operate differently.

Question 13

How much does switchable glass cost?

Accepted Answer

Factory-made switchable glass needs a project quotation covering the glass specification, sizes, controls, access, removal and installation. Compare the complete scope with retrofit smart film rather than relying on a universal per-square-metre figure.

Question 14

Does smart glass block sunlight?

Accepted Answer

Performance depends on the smart-glass technology and specification. PDLC products are mainly used for privacy and may provide UV protection and some solar benefit, but they should not be treated as dedicated solar-control glazing without supporting test data.

Question 15

Is smart glass worth it?

Accepted Answer

Smart glass can be worthwhile in new glazing packages or where a laminated glass construction is required. For suitable existing glass, retrofit smart film may offer the required switchable privacy with less disruption and a lower total project cost.

Question 16

Where can I buy smart film in the UK?

Accepted Answer

PriviFilm supplies PDLC smart film for UK projects with UK stock, in-house cutting and technical support. Supported installation is available through an in-house team and trained approved contractors.

Straight answers before you specify, buy or install

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