WINDOW TINTS
What is car window tinting?
Car window tinting is a process that darkens vehicle glass to reduce Visible Light Transference (VLT) — the amount of visible light that passes through the glass. VLT is measured by the percent of visible light (VL) passing through. The higher the VLT, the more VL it lets in.
What Are the Different Kinds of Car Window Tinting?
There are two kinds: factory and aftermarket.
Factory Window Tinting
With factory window tinting (AKA tinted glass), dyes and coloring pigments are added directly into the raw materials during glass manufacturing. The quantity and type of additives determines glass color and the amount of VLT. Factory window tinting commonly has a VLT of 74 to 85 percent.
Tinted glass is standard on virtually all vehicles sold in the United States. Manufacturers found reducing UV and IR allows the air conditioner to operate more efficiently and keep your vehicle cooler, thus using less energy.
Aftermarket Window Tinting
Aftermarket window tint (AKA window tinting) is a plastic film, usually polyester, typically applied to the inside of the windows. Like factory window tinting, different types and quantities of additives affect the tint’s final color, VLT and the film’s reflective properties.
Aftermarket window tint can have a VLT of five percent (super dark, AKA limo tint), allowing virtually no light in, to a 90 percent (virtually clear) high-tech nanotechnology tint that absorbs more than 60 percent of total solar energy and more than 90 percent of infrared heat.
Window tinting is a method of applying a thin film to the interior surface of a vehicle's windows. This material is designed to darken a car's windows to block UV light and reduce glare from the sun and headlights. Car window tint film is available in a variety of materials and shades.
Car window tinting can give a stylish look to your ride and improve visibility by reducing glare.
Fans of tinted windows say the darkened glass slows fading of interior surfaces due to sunlight exposure. They also say tinting helps keep the temperature inside a car cooler.
Tinted car windows also bring an additional layer of privacy and security because it is more difficult to see inside the automobile. In some cases, medical conditions may require a car owner to have tinted windows.
Before you choose to darken your vehicle’s glass, consider these tips about car tinting, the types available, and the pros and cons of each. And before buying, learn about the state laws around window tinting so you can make an informed decision.