Smart Glass Railings
Glass balustrades and balcony railings that switch from clear to private, giving you the view when you want it and screening when you do not.
Overview
The view, or the privacy — your choice
A glass railing keeps a balcony or terrace open to the view. Switchable glass lets you close that view off from the outside when you want to use the space privately.
Clear for the view
In the clear state the railing behaves like any frameless glass balustrade.
Private on demand
Switch the panels and the balcony is screened from neighbours and the street below.
Laminated safety glass
Panels are laminated safety glass, low iron, heat strengthened or tempered.
How it is built
How it is made
- Laminated switchable safety glass panels for balustrade systems.
- Thicknesses of 3/8 in, 1/2 in and 9/16 in, with others on request.
- Maximum panel size 70 in by 144 in, and 70 in by 126 in at 1/2 in.
- Low-voltage 48-55 VAC supply with wiring routed through the base channel.
- Over 98% UV blocking, and 100% when the glass is off.
- Structural fixing details are reviewed per project with the railing system supplier.
Where it works
Typical applications
Technical data
At a glance
These figures come from the Smart Glass Technologies product manuals and our published product pages.
- Laminated safety glass: low iron, heat strengthened or tempered.
- Thicknesses of 3/8 in, 1/2 in and 9/16 in, with others on request; about 5 lbs per sq ft.
- Maximum panel size 70 in by 144 in, and 70 in by 126 in at 1/2 in thickness.
- Low voltage operation at 48-55 VAC through a supplied transformer.
- Power consumption under 0.5 W per sq ft, only while the glass is powered.
- Over 98% UV blocking, and 100% when the glass is off.
- Sound reduction of approximately STC 40 from the laminated interlayer.
- Rated for 2 million switching cycles and designed to last a minimum of 15 years.
Common questions
Questions about railings
Is it structurally rated as a railing?
The switchable panel is laminated safety glass; the structural design, fixings and code compliance are confirmed for each project with your railing system and engineer.
Can it be used outdoors?
Exterior applications are reviewed per project, including the framing, sealing and the power route. Send your details and our team will advise.
Can it be fitted to glass I already have?
Yes, on suitable existing glass we apply our smart film. For new work or replacement glazing we supply complete laminated smart glass panels.
What happens when the power goes out?
Original PDLC is private when the power is off and clear when it is on. Reverse PNLC is the other way around and stays clear in a power failure.
How is it switched?
By wall switch, remote, mobile app, schedule, or integration with a building or access control system.
How much does it cost?
Our published prices start at $70 per sq ft for our smart film and $145 per sq ft for laminated smart glass. See the full breakdown on our smart glass cost page.
How long does it take?
Typical production is 2-4 weeks, with delivery in 5-10 days depending on size and scope.
Do you install it?
Yes. Our certified installers cover cities across the USA and Canada. Check our service areas.
Get a quote for your railings
Send the railing layout, panel sizes and the system you are using. We will confirm the build and quote it.
Certified Installation
Our trained technicians follow manufacturer-certified procedures for a flawless finish.
Certified & Tested Products
Every product is tested and certified to meet rigorous quality and safety standards.
Made in Miami, USA
Designed, assembled, and supported locally from our Miami headquarters.
USA Warranty
Backed by a comprehensive USA warranty for long-term peace of mind.