Smart switchable privacy glass

Smart switchable glass, PDLC privacy glass and electrically frosted glass

Switchable privacy glass changes between clear and frosted appearance using a compatible electrical control system. Typical PDLC glazing is clear when powered and translucent when switched off. It changes visual privacy while still allowing diffuse light through.

Clear-state haze, viewing angle and the lighting on either side affect what is seen. Close silhouettes can remain visible in the frosted state. If blackout, projection or a particular acoustic performance is required, specify it separately and agree a suitable sample or system.

New laminated switchable glass, switchable sealed units and retrofit privacy film are different construction routes. Plan edge sealing, drivers, cable access and switching zones before installation. Wet areas and moving doors need their own detailing review.

Smart switchable privacy glass for your project

Common enquiry briefs include office meeting room, retail display or consultation room, domestic room divider, bathroom or en-suite. Describe the intended use and the supporting construction so the supplier can assess the complete specification. Different applications can need different glass processing, fixings and installation details.

Choose a construction route

Laminated glass protects the switching layer between glass plies. Sealed units and retrofit film need different detailing, so describe whether the glass is new or existing.

Plan for privacy, light and haze

Typical PDLC glass is clear when powered and frosted when switched off. It still transmits diffuse light; it does not provide blackout or a sound-insulation rating by itself.

Design the connections early

Allow for the correct driver, controls and cable access. For doors, wet areas and connected building controls, agree the installation details before the glazing is made.

What to include in a made-to-measure quote

Compare quotes using the same dimensions, quantities, finish, glass construction and installation scope. If you have a drawing or an existing specification, include its reference and identify which details still need advice.

• Glass construction: Choose new glazing or ask about a retrofit film for existing glass; these are different installation routes.
• Installation environment: Bathrooms and exposed glazing need an agreed sealing and electrical design.
• How would you like to control it?: Specify the preferred interface; agree the compatible driver and control equipment.
• Panel arrangement: Give each different panel size its own basket line; describe which panels switch together.
• Privacy and light requirements: Standard PDLC is translucent when frosted. Viewing angle, lighting and close silhouettes affect the result.
• Power and cable routing: Plan an accessible system-specific driver and the panel connection position; moving doors need a suitable cable route.

Cut-to-size dimensions, edges and fabrication

Measure the finished glass only when the fitting allowances and support details are known. Otherwise identify the opening or existing panel you measured and request a survey. Give each different size its own basket line, with its quantity and drawing reference.

Holes, cut-outs, shaped edges and interfaces with hardware should be settled before manufacture. The finished glass construction and any coatings must suit the intended environment. A screen preview or concept photograph cannot replace a sample, survey or product-specific installation drawing.

Supplier checks before manufacture

• Agree a sample in the intended lighting; clear-state haze and frosted-state silhouettes can vary.
• Confirm the driver, controls, cable route and power-loss behaviour for the chosen system. A qualified installer should make the electrical connections.
• Specify safety classification, holes, cut-outs and finished sizes before manufacture. For humid areas, agree edge sealing and equipment locations.

Requesting comparable glass quotes

Save the choices you know and ask for help with the rest. The quote basket records a specification request rather than placing a manufacturing order. A firm quote needs an agreed final build, dimensions, delivery arrangements and any installation or design work.

When comparing proposals, check that glass-only supply and supply with fitting cover the same scope. Ask who provides measurement, drawings, supports, compatible hardware, lifting access and finishing work. Keep the final approved specification with the order.