Window tinting is a great way to protect your vehicle from harmful UV rays and enhance its curb appeal. Its affordability also makes it a popular aftermarket car modification.
Upfront costs vary depending on the type of tint, state laws, and warranty options. Some DIY kits range from $50 to $150 while professional installation costs between $200 and $600. Read on Precut It to learn more.
Window tints block UV rays and reduce the transmission of heat, which in turn can help your vehicle stay cooler. UV rays can oxidize exterior paint and degrade rubber, as well as cause skin damage and fade interior fabrics. Tinted windows prevent 99% of harmful UV rays from entering the cabin, shielding occupants from sun exposure and preserving leather and carpets for longer lifespans.
The type of film you choose determines how much UV protection and visible light transmission (VLT) it offers. There are three main types of window tint available: dyed, metalized, and ceramic. Dyed window tint is the most common option. It provides a dark appearance and offers some UV protection, but it is not as effective at blocking infrared heat as other options. Metalized window tint uses metallic particles to reflect sunlight, reducing its impact on the vehicle’s cabin while offering some UV protection. This type of tint is more expensive than others, but it is ideal if you prioritize transparency and durability.
Ceramic window tint is a high-performance option that uses advanced technology to block UV rays and infrared heat while maintaining near-perfect transparency. It is the most expensive type of tint, but it provides exceptional durability and performance. It uses a layer of nanoparticles to reject infrared heat while also inhibiting the transmission of UV rays and other harmful electromagnetic waves. Additionally, it is scratch-resistant and more shatterproof than other types of window tint. Professional installation is required because the ceramic film’s advanced composition requires specialized heat-shrinkage and molding techniques to ensure a bubble-free finish. It also requires a longer time frame for application than other tints, as the adhesive needs to fully cure.
Reduces glare
Window tints help to reduce glare for a more comfortable driving experience, especially on bright and sunny days. The darker the tint, the better it will be at reducing glare. However, it is important to consider local laws regarding Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentages as too dark a tint can cause a hazy appearance and impair visibility.
Professional-grade tinting blocks up to 99% of UVA and UVB rays, protecting passengers from sun damage and your car’s interior from fading. In addition, the film creates a barrier that discourages prying eyes, making it harder for people to see your valuables inside your vehicle.
During installation, the installer will prepare the window surface by cleaning it and misting a soapy water solution to act as a lubricant. Once the surface is ready, they will peel the film from its backing and apply it to the window. The installer will then use a squeegee to remove air bubbles and water from the surface, ensuring a smooth, even application.
Once the tint is applied, it can take several days for it to completely cure. During this time, it is important not to roll down the windows or touch the surfaces until the adhesive is fully cured.
As with most things in life, you get what you pay for when it comes to window tinting. Cheaper films are more likely to bubble, peel, or crack, while high-quality tints offer superior durability and a long-lasting, flawless finish. If you’re planning on installing tint yourself, invest in a model-specific pre-cut kit to eliminate cutting mishaps. It’s also worth paying a professional to ensure your tint job is done correctly. Exceeding legal limits or tinting improperly can lead to fines and the need to remove the tint.
Increases energy efficiency
Window tints offer a practical and cost-effective solution to regulate internal temperatures and minimize energy usage. In comparison to untinted windows, window tints create a barrier that minimizes heat transfer, helping your AC system avoid overexerting itself during the scorching summer months. Tinted windows also keep significant amounts of heat from penetrating your cabin during winter, preventing it from escaping through the glass and increasing indoor comfort.
Residential window tints also enhance HVAC efficiency by reducing solar heat gain during the summer. This reduction in heat buildup reduces the workload placed on your air conditioning system, lowering energy costs and extending its lifespan. Tinted windows also prevent the sun’s harmful UV rays from damaging interior furnishings, preserving them for a longer period of time and lowering repair and replacement costs.
Window tint is available in a variety of shades and reflectivity levels, giving you the ability to choose an option that best suits your needs. For maximum energy savings, opt for a low-emissivity film with special coatings that provide both thermal and solar control without compromising natural light. Window tints that block 99% of UV radiation also protect your furniture, flooring and upholstery from fading and deterioration, saving you money on costly repairs and replacements. In addition to providing significant financial benefits, window tints significantly cut down on carbon dioxide emissions and contribute to cleaner air quality. With so many benefits, window tinting is a great investment for anyone looking to improve their home or car’s efficiency and comfort. Visit our Milwaukee and Hales Corners locations today to find the perfect shade for your home or vehicle. We look forward to assisting you!
Increases privacy
When window tint is applied, it effectively obscures views into the interior from outside. This privacy feature helps drivers feel safe and secure during long drives by making it more difficult for passersby to see personal belongings inside the vehicle. It also provides an extra layer of security when parked in dimly lit areas, such as parking lots and streets.
Tints vary in composition and purpose, but they all share a similar goal of obscuring visibility. Depending on the percentage of visible light transmission (VLT) they allow, they can either create a darker appearance or allow more natural sunlight to enter the interior. Properly selected films strike a balance between the two.
Many high-quality films also offer UV protection, which is vital for your health and the longevity of your upholstery. Prolonged exposure to harmful UV rays can cause fabric to fade, crack, and degrade over time. Window tints block 99% of UV rays, significantly reducing this damaging effect.
Window tints also help reduce glare caused by sunlight and passing headlights. This glare can be distracting and dangerous for drivers, causing them to lose concentration or become fatigued. Tints reduce glare by softening the bright light and lowering heat levels. This creates a more comfortable driving experience and minimizes fatigue, especially during long drives.
In addition to privacy, window tints protect passengers and belongings in the event of a car accident. Tinted windows absorb the impact and prevent glass from shattering, minimizing the risk of injuries or property damage. They can even hold broken glass together and help keep debris from flinging around the interior of the vehicle. It is important to be cautious about sharp objects near window tints, as they can scratch the film and lead to fading or other issues down the road. Regular inspections can spot problems early and prevent them from becoming larger, more costly issues down the road.
Prevents fading
A quality window tint film can prevent furniture fading by blocking UV rays and visible light, while also reducing heat. The type of window tint you choose will depend on your aesthetic preferences, energy needs, and budget. You should also consider local laws, as some states restrict the amount of tint that can be applied to your front windshield and rear side windows.
Furniture fades over time due to prolonged exposure to sunlight. While a quality piece of wood or leather can last for years, overexposure to UV rays and heat accelerates the degradation process. Window tint can help preserve your furnishings, saving you money on replacement costs.
Home and office furniture are expensive investments that require proper maintenance to protect them from fading. In addition to preserving the color of fabrics, wood, and leather, window tint also blocks harmful UV rays, reduces glare, and maintains a consistent temperature, protecting your belongings and reducing cooling costs.
In a car, window tint can also preserve the condition of your seats and dashboard, as well as prevent damage to electronic devices that are often exposed to direct sunlight. Modern cars are equipped with advanced infotainment systems, digital dashboards, and sensors that can be damaged by excessive UV exposure. Tinting your windows helps to protect these expensive components and extend the life of your vehicle.
Window tint is available in a variety of shades and colors, so you can find the perfect match for your home or car. Choosing a shade that matches the surrounding décor will create a uniform look, while also complementing the exterior design. For the ultimate protection from glare and UV rays, opt for ceramic tint, which is scratch-resistant and won’t fade over time. It can also block 99% of UV rays, significantly reduce cabin heat, and increase visibility.