A “smart window” can mean a couple of different things, depending on who you’re talking to. The best thing to do is to break the concept down into the possible different parts of a smart window…
Can I get smart locks on my windows?
The first is smart locks. Smart locks work the same on both doors and windows — they’re locks that can be automated and controlled by your mobile phone. For example, you might set your windows to lock automatically when you leave the house.
What about windows that open and close automatically?
Then you’ve also got motorised windows and motorised blinds. As the name suggests, this is when you use a motor to open (or close) a window or blind for you. Not only is this a great party trick, but it also allows you to open and close difficult-to-reach windows, such as skylights.
With smart technology, you can control your windows from a mobile phone or an interface in your home. Ever been out at the office with the nagging feeling you’ve left a window open? You can check the status of all the smart windows in your house from wherever you are in the world… and lock them with the touch of a button as needed.
What is a window vibration intruder detection system?
One step further than a motorised window is an intruder detection system. These work by sensing vibrations in your window. If an intruder attempts to break the glass in your window then the alarm will go off! This might be a loud siren to scare intruders, or you might choose instead to get a notification on your phone (enabling you to call for police backup).
And why should they be hidden from sight?
You’ve got two different approaches to window alarms and each has their ups and downs. Some people like to have a window alarm as a deterrent. The idea is to make the alarm as obvious as possible so that potential intruders think twice before forcing an entrance.
Other people like to hide their alarms from sight. This has two advantages. Firstly, it’s harder for an intruder to incapacitate an alarm if they can’t find it in the first place. Secondly, some homeowners don’t like to have their home looking like Fort Knox and instead choose unobtrusive security features.
What about smart glass?
Smart glass, also called scratchable glass, is another possible version of the smart window. This glass cleverly switches from transparent to translucent, depending on the voltage applied. Aside from looking cool, this serves a variety of purposes, such as controlling the amount of heat and glare in your home and enabling views on demand.
How much does a smart window cost?
Customers frequently ask us how much it costs to install a smart window… but as we’ve tried to make clear in this blog, it’s all completely dependent on what you mean by a smart window!
Smart locks and intruder alarms range from very cheap to very expensive. Some people prefer to risk it, while others are prepared to invest seriously when it comes to protecting their family from danger. It all depends on your priorities. Motorised windows and blinds always tend to be a pricier option. This is because they’ll need to be installed by a professional and customised to the size of your window. But don’t rule them out! A motorised blind on a skylight can bring lots of lovely natural light into your home, without the hassle of ladders or levers. Smart glass is also very expensive. Very few people can afford to install smart glass, so it’s something we only see on elite properties.
If you’d like to learn more about smart homes, get in touch with one of the MDfx smart home installers via our contact page.
