Occupant Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Who controls when the windows tint? And when do the windows tint?
    • View Smart Windows utilize electrochromic technology and a predictive software algorithm called Intelligence. With Intelligence, windows respond automatically so you can enjoy the views and daylight without lifting a finger.
    • The key factors affecting glass tint include the depth of sun shining into the space, the amount of heat passing through the windows, and the cloud cover and reflections from nearby buildings. The windows tint between four settings, depending on the environmental conditions.
     

    Tint 1
    Boost Productivity with Natural Light

    52% Visible Light Transmission

    Is clear and lets in the most sunlight and warmth. Used when the sky is cloudy or clear and the sun is not on the façade.

    Tint 2
    Boost Productivity with Natural Light

    30% Visible Light Transmission

    Manages some solar heat, while still remaining clear. Used on partly cloudy days.

    Tint 3
    Boost Productivity with Natural Light

    6% Visible Light Transmission

    Diverts glare and heat while still allowing for daylight. Presents average level of glare from direct sun or reflection off the adjacent building.

    Tint 4
    Boost Productivity with Natural Light

    1% Visible Light Transmission

    Controls glare and keeps you cool. Used to protect you against strong glare and heat.

  2. How does it tint? (referring to what is the glass made from)
    • View Smart Windows use Electrochromic (EC) technology. The windows change tint from clear to dark when a small electrical voltage is applied to the five layers of inorganic metal oxides. Altogether, the stacked layers are less than the thickness of 1/50 of a human hair. Specifically, when a small electric field is applied to the stack, ions travel across the coating, where they change the atoms’ oxidation state. This darkens the material to a blue-gray. Another short, low-voltage potential clears the electrons and switches the material back to full transparency. The conducting layers are connected to a low voltage power supply and controller.
       
  3. How long do the windows take to tint?
    • Generally, it takes 5-10 minutes to transition between each tint state.
       
  4. My windows are darker (or lighter) on the edge of the window, why is that?
    • This is normal for electrochromic windows. The glass tints from the longer edge to the center. Electricity is sent through the glass via metal strips that run on the long side of each unit. The glass will even out once the transition is complete.
       
  5. Why do the windows tint to blue?
    • View blocks 91% of heat and 99% of visual light in its darkest tint state to keep you comfortable. In its tinted states, the glass will exhibit a blue-gray transmitted light color that is inherent to the electrochromic coatings.
       
  6. Can the glass be tuned to better meet my needs (in the instance of glare or discomfort)?
    • Yes, it can. If this is a recurring issue, please alert the facilities team who will work with the View Customer Success Manager to revisit the Intelligence programming and ensure it meets your needs.
  7. Can I control the windows?
    • The windows are an intelligent, predictive system that chooses the right tint at the right time so everyone in the building can enjoy the views and daylight without lifting a finger. If you have any questions, please reach out to your facilities team.
       
  8. Who do I reach out to with questions?
    • If you would like to make adjustments, please reach out to your facilities team for support. If you would like to reach out to your View Customer Success team, please use the “Contact Us” form at the bottom of the site.