On this page
Step by step
- Measure and check the glass. The glass needs to be clean and smooth. HomeGuide says thin glass, scratches, or uneven spots can stop film from sticking and make it look distorted [1].
- Cut the film. It's trimmed to the exact size of each pane [3].
- Apply the film. The self-adhesive film goes on the inside surface of the glass, similar to window tint [1][3].
- Connect the power. Each film panel connects to a transformer that supplies a low voltage, typically 48 to 65 volts AC [3][4].
- Add the controls. A wall switch, remote, phone app, or voice assistant [4].
- Test it. The installer switches it on and off with you before they leave [4].
Plug-in or hardwired
If there's an outlet near the glass, the transformer can often plug in and wiring costs stay low [3]. If not, wire has to run through walls, ceilings, or floors. The LA installer says that can add $500 to $2,000 or more [3], and that some jobs need a licensed electrician [3]. HomeGuide recommends leaving wiring to a professional so it's done safely and up to code [1]. Whether you need an electrical permit depends on your city, so ask.
What it costs
A Los Angeles installer breaks down a typical project like this [3]:
| Part | Cost |
|---|---|
| Film | $50 to $120 per sq ft |
| Transformer, wiring, switch or controller | $200 to $800 per zone |
| Labor | $15 to $40 per sq ft |
| All in | $75 to $175 per sq ft |
HomeGuide lists professional installation at $50 to $75 per hour [1]. See the smart film cost guide for more.
Can you install it yourself?
Some smart film is sold for DIY, and HomeGuide's $25 to $55 per sq ft range is for DIY installs [1]. But HomeGuide says professional installs help the film last longer, because damage often happens during DIY application [1]. Any new wiring is a job for an electrician [1][3].
Questions to ask an installer
These come partly from HomeGuide's list [1]:
- How many smart film jobs have you done, and can I see photos?
- Are you trained or certified by the film maker?
- Does the price include the transformer, wiring, and controls?
- Who does the electrical work, and are they licensed?
- What's the warranty on the film, the transformer, and the labor?
- Is this standard film (private when off) or reverse film (clear when off)?
- How long will the job take?
Check the installer's license and insurance yourself.
FAQ
How long does smart film installation take?
None of our sources give a standard time, because it depends on the glass area and the wiring. A plug-in job on a few panes is far less work than running new wiring through walls. Ask each installer for a timeline in writing.
What happens if the film fails?
Ask before you buy. One maker covers standard film for 3 years and premium film for up to 7 [2]. Another rates its film for over 800,000 switches [4]. Get the warranty terms in writing, including who removes and replaces failed film.
A referral is not an endorsement, so check any installer yourself before you sign.
We're a referral service, not a contractor, and independent contractors may pay us for referrals.