Does RealTone™ work with the same SageGlass Symphony® Control System?

Yes. RealTone the hardware and software is unchanged.

Is RealTone available with the full array of SageGlass features and options?

Yes. RealTone™ is fully compatible with all other SageGlass makeup and feature options. This includes SageGlass Harmony®, our gradient tinting capability, and Bright Silver, a proprietary Saint-Gobain coating that provides optimal exterior aesthetics.

Does the performance of RealTone™ differ from the SageGlass legacy solution, CoolTone™?

RealTone was designed to improve the interior aesthetic of our glass while maintaining unrivaled control of glare. The performance values for RealTone are very similar to the earlier generation of our product to ensure that continuity of performance. The visible light transmittance in the clear state is roughly 2% lower with RealTone compared to CoolTone, however that difference is imperceptible, even to a trained observer.

With the introduction of RealTone™, will SageGlass continue producing CoolTone?

SageGlass will continue to support customers who purchased CoolTone with replacement units as needed.

How did SageGlass achieve greater color neutrality in the tinted state with RealTone™?

While certain details are proprietary, RealTone leverages the same electrochromic technology as the legacy SageGlass solution, CoolTone™. This is critically important because our customers can rest assured that RealTone will leverage the same proven performance.

How is RealTone™ different from the legacy SageGlass solution, CoolTone™?

RealTone is nearly identical to CoolTone in every way except one: tint state color neutrality. With CoolTone, as the glass tints the color becomes blue. With RealTone, the aesthetic when tinted is a neutral gray, preserving natural, true-to-life views of the outside and the interior color rendering, enhancing the occupant experience.

How do smart windows save energy?

Electrochromic glass can significantly improve the energy efficiency of buildings by reducing loads on HVAC systems.  Smart windows respond to changes in the environment, limiting the heat or cold entering the space and helping building owners cut energy costs year-round.  Smart windows can help achieve green building certifications. 

How long do smart windows last?

The lifespan of smart windows is comparable to that of traditional low-e glass.  Smart windows provide a long-term, adaptive solar control solution for commercial building facades. A typical façade with low-e glass will require blinds or shades to control daylight.  Shades and blinds require consistent cleaning and maintenance and may need to be replaced multiple times over the life cycle of the glass. 

Does smart glass block sunlight?

Unlike traditional shading solutions that block daylight, smart windows tint in response to sunlight, providing glare control and thermal regulation without eliminating natural light from the space altogether.  This ensures that occupants stay cool and comfortable, while benefiting from exposure to natural light. 

How do you clean smart glass?

Smart windows can be cleaned just like any other window!  In fact, a dynamic glass solution can reduce the need for blinds or shades, making the cleaning of your spaces easier and more efficient.  Blinds and shades can be difficult to clean compared to hard surfaces and tend to collect dust, when not cleaned routinely and fully. 

What are the health benefits associated with smart glass?

Unlike traditional shading solutions, smart windows maximize daylight in a space and maintain unobstructed views of the outdoors, providing occupants the ultimate connection to the outside world.  Research has shown that natural light and outdoor views improve happiness and well-being.  In fact, daylight and views can result in less sick leave or absenteeism, a boost in productivity, and more sleep at night. 

How is the glass smart / what does it do?

Smart glass automatically tints and clears by electrical charge to control light and heat, optimizing thermal comfort and glare control in a space.  Also known as dynamic glass or smart windows, smart glass uses a combination of predictive and real-time inputs, such as weather, position of the sun, building orientation, location, occupancy, and time of day to optimize comfort.