How to Choose the Right Car Window Tint: What You Need to Know
There are many benefits to tinting your car windows, but how do you choose the right car window tint? See our guide to learn what you need to consider.
Did you know that the average driver in Florida will drive over 14,000 miles per year? Even for those of us who consider ourselves car enthusiasts, all those hours behind the wheel can add up, making us consider how to upgrade the comfort of our vehicle.
Whether you want to block glare, protect your skin from UV rays, or insulate your car from the summer heat, the right car window tint can do it all in style. Of course, that's only true if you can navigate the countless options to find the right window tint for your needs.
If you're not sure where to begin, we've got you covered. Let's take a quick look at the basics of auto window tinting, including the types of tint, the legal requirements, and how to determine your own needs.
Get to Know the Types of Car Window Tint
First things first: if you've never considered getting your windows tinted before, you may not know that there are many options to choose from in terms of window film. Each option has its pros and cons, and it's important to consider which ones fit your budget.
Here are the basics of each type of film:
Crystalline
This low-opacity option doesn't offer much of a tint. This makes it ideal for drivers who want the benefits of window tint without its darkening qualities.
Dyed
Dyed window tints have a thin layer of dye under a protective top coat. They're the most affordable way to darken your windows, and they offer mild UV blocking and window protection.
Metalized
Metalized tints are more expensive than dyed tints, but they offer far better shatter resistance and UV blocking. However, the metal microparticles in these tints can interfere with any electronic devices in your car, and their shiny finish may not be the preference of all drivers.
Hybrid
Hybrid tints contain both dye and metal powder, and they combine the best aspects of dyed and metalized tints. Even better, they're more affordable than metalized tints and won't affect electronics within your car.
Carbon
Carbon tints offer premium UV blocking without the reflective look of metalized tints. They also offer great insulation, keeping the inside of your vehicle cooler in the summer.
Ceramic
The gold standard of window films, ceramic tints are the most expensive option. They offer great UV blocking, increased insulation, and shatter protection for your windows. They also block glare, won't fade over time, and won't impact your car's radio signals.
Know Your State Laws on Tinting Car Windows
If you're hoping for a deep black tint to match your desired aesthetic, don't spring for an installation before checking your state's tinting laws! This requires you to understand visible light transmission (VLT).
Here in the state of Florida, the maximum darkness of your windows depends on the type of vehicle you own. For sedans and cars, for example, your front side windows have to let in at least 28% of the sunlight, while your back and rear windows must let in at least 15% of the sunlight.
However, you'll also need to look into the laws for any state where you intend to drive your car. If you travel for work or enjoy taking road trips, your window tint must match the laws of other states.
Decide on Your Tint Percentage Needs
Once you know the state regulations you'll have to deal with, it's time to decide on your own preferences in terms of the tint percentage. Here are a few things you'll want to consider.
Your Desired Aesthetic
If you have a specific look in mind, consider a tint percentage according to that aesthetic. To match the look of a luxury car or limousine, for example, you'll want a darker tint. If you like the current look of your car, a lighter tint is better.
Your Car's Interior
If you're trying to protect the interior of a new car, a darker tint may be the best option. This is also true if you have a luxury or classic car whose leather seats you want to protect.
Your Health
For some drivers, the primary reason for getting a tint is to protect their skin and eyes. Sunlight can cause serious health concerns for drivers who are behind the wheel for extended periods. This is why the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends window films to block natural light.
If you or anyone who drives with you has certain medical conditions, you may want to choose a darker tint. These tints can help protect your eyesight, for example, when you have a condition that makes you more sensitive to sunlight.
Your Privacy
Do you feel exposed when people look into your vehicle? If you'd like to keep prying eyes away from your car, a darker tint may be ideal. These tints can make it hard for people to see into your car, rendering you a dark silhouette.
Your Security
Linked to the concern above, darker tints can enhance your car's security as well. Because darker tints make it more difficult to see into a vehicle, would-be thieves may be less likely to attempt a break-in. Even better, some types of tint are shatter-resistant, making it more difficult for someone to break in and buying you time to call the authorities if you hear the sound of cracking glass.
Get Advice From a Professional Installer
Though all of the insights above can be a great way to find the right vehicle window tint, nothing can beat the advice of an expert installer. With the experience of a pro to guide you, you'll have no trouble choosing a car window tint that meets your budget, your needs, and the legal requirements where you drive.
That's where Window Kote of Largo comes in! As a LLumar SelectPro dealer, we offer an excellent buying and installation experience and the best car window tints around. To learn more, get in touch with us or get a free estimate today.
