Installing commercial smart window tint is an investment that can provide many benefits for your business or commercial building. Smart window tints allow you to instantly switch between clear and tinted glass to control sunlight, glare, and heat coming into your building. This type of dynamic glass helps reduce energy costs for cooling and heating while also creating a more comfortable environment.

When considering a commercial smart window tint, one of the most common questions is “how long does it last?” Like any product, the lifespan of commercial smart tints depends on several factors. With proper installation and care, quality commercial smart window films can last 10-15 years or more.

Here’s a closer look at what determines the lifespan of commercial smart window tint and how to extend its longevity in your building:

Factors That Impact Lifespan

There are several key factors that affect how long commercial smart window tint will last:

Window Film Quality

As with most products, higher quality materials will last longer. Be sure to choose a reputable brand of smart window tint that uses durable components. Lower quality tints are more likely to peel, bubble, discolor or degrade faster when exposed to weather and sun.

Installation Method

Proper installation is extremely important for longevity. Smart window films need to be expertly applied without bubbles, creases or edges lifting up. Hiring an experienced commercial window tint installer ensures correct techniques are used. DIY installations often fail prematurely.

Exposure to Sun and Weather

The amount of direct sunlight and exposure to weather elements will naturally degrade window tint over time. Smart films applied to west or south facing windows, for example, will experience more UV exposure and high temperatures compared to north facing windows.

Window Glass Type

Smart window tints last longer when applied to modern glass with uniform surfaces. Older glass that is wavy, distorted or contains impurities can lead to premature failure as the film adheres unevenly. Consulting with your installer on which windows are best candidates can extend the lifespan.

Power System and Electronics

The electronics that control the smart tinting functionality also need to be robust and properly installed to avoid early malfunction. Quality tint brands test electronics and wires to ensure longevity.

Maintenance and Care

Basic upkeep is necessary to get the most years out of commercial smart window tint. Catching any peeling edges early and having an expert repair helps stop further failure. Keeping glass clean and avoiding harsh chemicals also prevents damage.

READ: Improving Indoor Air Quality and Comfort with Commercial Smart Window Tint

Typical Lifespan

With high-quality film, expert installation, newer windows and proper maintenance, most reputable brands of commercial smart window tint will last 10-15 years or longer. Many come with manufacturer warranties in this range.

However, there are some exceptions on both ends:

• Lower lifespan: 5-7 years – With DIY installation, low-end no-name brand, older windows, direct sun exposure.
• Longer lifespan: 20+ years – With premium brand, ideal window glass, minimal sun exposure, and impeccable maintenance.

So while 10-15 years is the typical realistic expectation, it does depend on your specific factors.

Factors That Shorten Lifespan

There are certain conditions and factors that can shorten the lifespan of your commercial smart window tint. Being aware of these can help you avoid them and keep your tint lasting as long as possible:

• Low Glass Quality – Older glass with inconsistencies in thickness, bubbles or imperfections creates an uneven surface for window film to adhere to, causing premature wear and gaps between the film and glass.
• Off-Gassing from Glass Coatings – Some specialty glass coatings continue to gas-off after installation which can interfere with film adhesion. This is more common in retrofit applications.
• Sun Exposure – Windows facing south and west experience more intense UV exposure and solar heat gain leading to faster breakdown of films.
• Poor Water Drainage – Any moisture or puddling issues on windows allows water penetration behind the film. Good external drainage is required.
• Harsh Cleaners – Avoiding ammonia-based and abrasive cleaners is critical for longevity. Always use a mild soap and water.
• Broken Glass Seals – Compromised window seals that allows moisture intrusion between glass panels which damages film.
• Chemical Exposure – Industrial chemicals or cleaners used near windows can interact with film layers and cause premature failure.

Being aware of these potential factors allows you to take preventative measures and make informed choices when selecting windows for smart tinting.

Extending Your Lifespan

To maximize the longevity of your commercial smart window tint, here are some tips:

• Choose East/North Windows – Prioritize these orientations that get less intense sun exposure for your tint application.
• Use Exterior Shades – Strategically placed exterior shades above windows can further limit solar damage from direct sun.
• Use a Reputable Installer – Don’t try to cut costs on installation. An experienced commercial installer is crucial.
• Schedule Regular Checkups – Maintenance checks every 2-3 years allow technicians to spot any problems early.
• Clean Windows Properly – Use recommended cleaning methods only. Avoid scraping tools or harsh cleaners.
• Repair Damage Quickly – As soon as any peeling edges, cracks or delamination occur, have it repaired.
• Upgrade Electronics – As technology advances, have electronics updated to maximize performance and energy efficiency.
• Replace at Recommended Intervals – Be prepared to have film replaced at the 10-15 year mark to maintain performance.

With smart preventative care and maintenance, commercial smart window tint can remain effective and enhance your building’s functionality for over a decade. Keep these best practices in mind to ensure you maximize the return on investment from your commercial smart tinting system. 

Get a Quote on Durable Commercial Smart Window Tint

If you’re looking to install smart window tinting for your commercial building or office space, contact us today at 833-422-1329 for a fast and free estimate. Our experienced team has been providing top-quality electrochromic smart window films for over decade that regulate sunlight, save energy, and provide long-lasting durability. Get the unbeatable visibility, thermal control, and longevity of ElectraTint‘s innovative smart window films for your next commercial project.

With proper installation and maintenance, our commercial-grade dynamic window tint can last 10 years or more without fading, bubbling, or performance issues. The stable transition speeds, high visible light transmission, and durable glass-integrated construction stand up to decades of heavy use in commercial environments.