Windows more or less over the centuries have remained the same except for the introduction of double glazing but that’s not all that has changed. Privacy glass now reimagines the windows that have existed for ages while providing the ability to instantly transform the basic window from a clear view to a frosted view with just a single click of a button. Not to mention this privacy glass windows technology is quite new and relatively unknown there is still a lot to explore. There are also a lot of questions when it comes to what is privacy glass and the types of privacy glass available. However, be worry-free since you will get a detailed account of the same in this article.
What is Privacy Glass?
Before we get to know more in detail about privacy glass windows let’s check what is privacy glass window. Privacy glass is often also called the factory tint, which is quite special and has been darkened so that you get the required privacy. This is done by applying a special film over the existing windows such that there is no more need for remodeling or construction. One of the best advantages of getting privacy glass windows is that you get enough privacy with natural light not being blocked at all.
The tint that is applied to the window tends to block the visibility from the outside and looks opaque when you look from outside, however, that does not mean that you cannot view the outer landscape. This will also be visible without any interference.
Types of Privacy Glass?
Although the functions of almost every different type of privacy glass remain the same, they all have minor differences that can change the applications greatly. Here is a list of the various types of privacy glass that you can choose from.
Obscured Privacy Glass
One of the main kinds of glass used for privacy glass windows is obscured privacy glass. This glass consists of patterns with various levels of obfuscation which means the window can change how much visibility to allow. The less clear the window is the less the people out of your house can see. However, you won’t be losing out on the natural light entering the house when you get an obscured privacy glass.
While this glass could consist of quite heavy obfuscation levels which can block out the view of the outside world, you will still let just as much light as needed in your living space. This is a good advantage since there will be no theft as the thief won’t be able to view the valuables inside the house.
You can also choose from a list of various styles and patterns which can raise the aesthetic value. Not only that you also get frosted and etched design options which gives you more privacy. Also with double insulation as standard, you will get proper sound insulation as well.
Tempered Privacy Glass
Privacy glass can definitely help people to look into your house which is true but why not invest a bit more and get a glass that can stop people from getting in as well? While the double glazing does sound quite strong, tempered privacy glass gives the added advantage of being more resilient. Not to mention this is due to the high-pressure manufacturing system.
This also means that the tempered privacy glass can hold up to four times the pressure without cracking, breaking, or fracturing. This also means that low-level random hits can do nothing to your privacy glass. They can also deal with extremely high temperatures while also being intrusion-resistant.
Opaque Privacy Glass
Sometimes privacy glass is something you can’t add to your home. However, in some situations, you need total privacy so that others cannot view your possessions. In such cases, the best way to completely stop people from looking into your space is by adding opaque privacy glass. This opaque privacy glass tends to completely shut off the viewpoint inside the room. However, the downside would be that it does not allow any natural light to enter. However, if privacy is the priority then the opaque privacy glass is the right choice.
How is Privacy Glass Made?
The core of the privacy glass is a switchable film that consists of PDLC that has been coated in Indium Tin Oxide. This helps in the safe flow of electricity. The outer layers outside the core are then fitted and coated with PET which is a protective enclosure that protects the film present. This is all done while still maintaining optical transparency.
Finally, to convert it into smart glass, it is coated down onto a glass surface or sometimes bonded in between two layers of glass for extra durability and safety based on where it is going to be used.
How Do Privacy Glass Windows Work?
The privacy glass is meticulously and intricately constructed by using liquid crystals suspended in polymers between the layer of glass along with a layer of indium tin oxide. This allows the PDLC present to safely respond to an applied electric current.
Just like an LCD screen the liquid crystals tend to change how they interact with the light in the presence of an electric charge. This allows the light to be either obstructed or present respectively. When applied in the context of privacy glass without an applied current then the PDLC molecules are condensed which tends to block the light but with a current passing through the PDLC layer. The molecules then polarize changing the glass’s original state into milky white or translucent texture.
While PDLC glass does consist of a PDLC layer, electrochromic glass is a type of smart glass that is produced while placing an electrochromic layer between two glass layers. When electricity is applied the ions in the electrolyte are activated which causes the electrochromic layer to change color from dark to transparent/ This unlike other smart glasses stays transparent unless there is electricity used to switch it back to a dark shade. You have also got thermochromic glass that changes the properties based on the temperature. Hence with control of the temperature it is possible to either make it transparent or opaque.
Benefits of Privacy Glass Windows
The investment that you make for a privacy window is definitely worth every penny. This is because they offer a multitude of benefits. This is hence beneficial for not just homeowners but also for businesses. Here are a few reasons why we believe so.
Enhancing privacy without using curtains or blinds
The most basic advantage that a privacy window provides is that it allows great privacy. They are also designed in such a way that the visibility is minimized into your space which also helps preserve confidentiality be it at home or your office. Furthermore, if you get privacy windows you need not get additional curtains or blinds which might again obstruct the entrance of natural light.
Natural light benefits while maintaining privacy
While it is true that privacy glass windows do reduce the visibility levels when viewed from outside, this does not necessarily mean that the light outside will be obstructed as well. They are also an excellent choice for places where you need lots of light inside but you also require high levels of privacy.
Energy efficiency and UV protection
These privacy glass windows help reduce the energy that is consumed normally by blocking out heat and sunlight. This also reduces the need for air conditioning. Also with natural light in abundance, you do not need to keep your lights on at least when it comes to daytime. So more savings in those terms.
Applications of Privacy Glass
When it comes to the application of privacy glass, you can imagine that there are a whole lot of ways that they can be utilized. However, majorly they can be divided into two different categories such as follows:
Residential uses
Privacy glass is highly used as a part of walls and partitions. It can also be used as transparent or translucent glass walls to enhance the rich décor feel. Privacy glasses have also now replaced the wooden partitions in homes and have become easy to clean, and install while also being quite versatile. Smart glass is considered to be one of the most famous types of privacy glass. These glasses can instantly turn from normal transparent glass to opaque glass with just a push of a button.
Using privacy glass for windows is yet another way to ensure that there is privacy while keeping out extreme cold or hot weather. Also with a variety of options such as smoked glass, textured glass, colored glass, and etched glass, it is possible to elevate the aesthetic value of your house.
Commercial uses
Privacy glass is now highly being used in restaurants, pubs, clubs, business centers, and other hospitality establishments. It helps add to the aesthetics of the place and allows increased privacy. Switchable privacy glass is also one of the popular options for commercial use since it can replace curtains and blinds efficiently and elegantly. Attaching frosted glass could also elevate the look of the place while also providing a calm look to the place. One more added advantage of using this privacy glass is that they are hygienic while also being easy to clean and attractive.
Where Can I Purchase Privacy Glass?
When you are in the market for a privacy glass product you might want to ensure that you are only purchasing from a reliable company that has a dedicated and consistent manufacturing process.
Manufacturing glass is no simple feat, and a well-made final product is as much of an investment as that of art as the staple aesthetic piece of your home. Hence when you invest in the right glass, longevity is one thing that needs to be assured.
Well, what if we say, Finepoint Glass has a manufacturing process of our very own range which consists of patented smart glass technology? Not just that we also ensure to provide a wide array of privacy and smart glass products that are sure to fit various design requirements, budgets, and the purpose of the project that you have in mind.
Conclusion
Overall, the benefits and applications of privacy glass are something you might want to consider when you are choosing whether to buy one or not. It is also essential to look at the potential drawbacks before you decide to use it. If energy efficiency, safety, and privacy are three of the things you value along with the aesthetic part of your house then privacy glass would be a great option.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between tinted and privacy glass?
Tinted windows are just plain windows that have a tinted film applied to them. On the other hand, your privacy glass is actually double-glazed glass that consists of a privacy coating.
2. How much does privacy glass typically cost?
If you go for a privacy glass with 10 mm thickness then it can cost you about 650 Euros per square meter.
3. Can privacy glass windows be installed in any frame?
Yes privacy glass is designed based on the requirements of the customers and hence it can be installed in any frame based on the choice of the customers.
4. How long do privacy glass windows last?
Since privacy glasses are double-glazed glass they can easily last for about 20 to 30 years.
5. Are privacy glass windows energy efficient?
Yes, they are energy efficient since they reduce the solar heat gain and the glare from sunlight. This will eventually lower the use of air conditioning and save on energy costs.