Saw a video the other day about these windows that can tint themselves darker or lighter with just a tap on your phone or even automatically based on sunlight. Pretty neat stuff, but wondering if anyone's actually spotted them in regular homes yet?
Yeah, I've actually installed a few of these smart tinting windows in residential homes over the past year or so. They're definitely starting to pop up more often, though mostly in newer builds or homes undergoing major renovations. I gotta say, homeowners who've tried them seem pretty happy overall—especially those with big south-facing windows that get blasted by sunlight all day.
One thing I've noticed is that while the smartphone control is cool, most people end up relying on the automatic sensors. It's just easier, you know? Plus, the tech has gotten way better lately—earlier versions sometimes struggled with consistency or took forever to adjust. But now they're pretty smooth and responsive.
Cost-wise, they're still on the pricier side compared to traditional window treatments, but prices are gradually coming down as more companies jump into the market. Honestly, if you're someone who values convenience and energy efficiency (and hates messing around with blinds or curtains), they're worth considering.
"One thing I've noticed is that while the smartphone control is cool, most people end up relying on the automatic sensors."
Interesting you mention that, because I've been looking into these windows myself for a DIY sunroom project. The automatic sensors sound convenient, but I'm curious—how adjustable are they? Like, can you tweak the sensitivity or timing yourself, or is it pretty much set-and-forget from the factory?
Also, since you've installed a few, have you noticed any issues with durability or maintenance? I mean, tech is great until something goes wrong...and then you're stuck troubleshooting instead of enjoying your fancy windows. I'd hate to invest in something that ends up being more hassle than it's worth.
The automatic sensors sound convenient, but I'm curious—how adjustable are they? Like, can you tweak the sensitivity or timing yourself, or is it pretty much set-and-forget from the factory?
I've installed a few of these auto-darkening windows for clients, and honestly, they're pretty slick. Most of the ones I've worked with do have some adjustability built in—usually through an app or a small control panel. You can tweak sensitivity to sunlight and even set custom schedules if you're picky about when they darken or lighten. But from what I've seen, most homeowners just leave them on factory settings because, well... who wants another thing to fiddle with?
As for durability, I haven't had any major issues yet (knock on wood). One client did call me back once because their window got stuck halfway darkened—turned out the sensor just needed a quick reset. Took me five minutes, but the homeowner had spent two hours Googling and panicking beforehand, haha. So yeah, tech is great until it isn't. But overall, I'd say they're pretty reliable. Just don't toss out your curtains quite yet... you never know when you'll need a backup plan.
I've installed a few of these auto-darkening windows for clients, and honestly, they're pretty slick.
Good points above—installed a handful myself, and yeah, they're pretty user-friendly overall. Quick notes from experience:
- App controls are decent, but honestly, most folks never touch them after setup.
- Had one stubborn window glitch out; quick reset fixed it.
- Still recommend curtains/blinds as backup...tech hiccups happen.