For many of us, our cars are our castles. We spend a great deal of time driving in them, and we’d like them to reflect our own personalities and interests, whether that’s through bumper stickers or car modifications like undercarriage lights and window tinting.
Whether your car is a pre-used vehicle chosen for its affordability or a top-of-the-line model selected to show off, it’s important that your car is safe and comfortable. This includes having low glare and high visibility while driving in all conditions, as you need to be able to see any obstacle and stop in time.
Car window tinting is a great way not just to enhance the appearance of your vehicle, but also to reduce eye strain, protect your car’s interior from UV rays, and afford you more privacy. However, selecting the right tint can be a daunting task with various options available. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips and advice on how to choose the best car window tinting for your vehicle.
Know Your State’s Laws
The first thing you need to think about before selecting car window tinting is your state’s laws. Different states have different regulations regarding the darkness of car window tinting. It’s essential to comply with these regulations to avoid getting fined or even having to remove the tint.
Consider Your Driving Habits
Another factor to consider is your driving habits. Do you drive long distances during the day or mostly at night? If you spend a lot of time driving during the day, it’s essential to select a tint that can provide excellent protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays. On the other hand, if you mostly drive at night, a lighter tint that does not impede visibility would be a better option.
Know Your Options
When it comes to car window tinting, there are different options available, including dyed film, metalized film, hybrid film, and ceramic film. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, and it’s essential to know them to make an informed decision.
Dyed film is the most affordable option and is made by applying a layer of dye between the adhesive layer and the polyester top coat. While it provides excellent UV protection, it’s not as effective in heat reduction as other options.
Metalized film is made by applying a layer of metal to the adhesive layer and can provide excellent heat and UV protection. The downside is that this can interfere with electronic signals, like your car’s radio and GPS, which makes it a less attractive option in today’s hyper-connected world.
Hybrid film combines the advantages of dyed and metalized films to provide a good balance between heat reduction and UV protection. This option is a bit pricier than dyed film or metalized film, but its additional features make it worth the expense.
Ceramic film provides the best heat reduction and UV protection; it’s also non-conductive, meaning it doesn’t interfere with electronic signals. However, it’s the most expensive option, and some installers may not carry this.
Consider the Shade
The shade of the tint is another factor to consider. Tint shades are measured by their Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage, which indicates how much light can pass through the tint. The lower the VLT percentage, the darker the tint. The higher the VLT percentage, the lighter the tint.
It’s essential to consider your state’s laws regarding tint shades when selecting the tint shade. Beyond compliance with regulations, the shade of the tint can also impact the amount of heat and UV protection provided. A darker tint can provide better heat reduction and UV protection, but it can also reduce visibility, especially at night. This is why using a professional installer is so essential, as they know the laws and can ensure you choose something appropriate for your specific needs.
Check the Warranty
When selecting car window tinting, it’s crucial to consider the warranty. A good warranty will provide you with peace of mind knowing that you’re protected in case the tint fades, peels or bubbles. A warranty can also provide you with additional benefits, such as replacement and repair services.
Consider the Brand
The brand of the tint is another factor to consider. There are various brands of car window tinting, and not all are created equal. It’s essential to select a reputable brand known for its quality and durability. Reading reviews from other car owners can also provide you with valuable insights into the performance of different brands.
Have it Installed Professionally
Finally, it’s essential to have your car window tinting installed professionally. While some car owners may be tempted to save money by installing the tint themselves, this can lead to subpar installation that may peel or bubble; even worse, it may damage your car’s windows, necessitating expensive repairs. More importantly, you may choose a brand that isn’t street legal in your area, which can get you into serious trouble the first time you take your car out for a spin.
Professional car window tinting installers will be able to expertly install your window tinting to ensure proper coverage and a perfect seal. They’ll also know what brands and shades are street legal, so that you never have to worry about getting pulled over for your window tinting. Most will have a guarantee on their work for a certain time period, which ensures that if you ever have trouble with your window tinting, you can get professional assistance in fixing the issue.
