Many people think of window tints as cosmetic enhancements and privacy accessories, but these films have much more to offer. The right film will protect your car upholstery from discoloration and fading, keep you cool in hot weather, block windshield glare that causes eye fatigue and even help your car’s interiors hold their shape and prevent cracking. Window tints also reduce the risk of car accidents by blocking harmful ultraviolet rays, increase your safety by improving night and day driving visibility, and add to your vehicle’s resale value.
Tints can be found in various color options, and the degree of darkness is indicated by their Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Infrared Rejection (IR). The VLT percentage tells you how much visible light is allowed through a tint. A VLT of around 90 is standard for untinted glass and allows nearly all sunlight into your vehicle, while a 50 or 60 VLT tint will absorb most of the sun’s heat.
A tint’s IR rejection capabilities are determined by how much infrared energy it reflects and absorbs, which can vary between products. High-quality automotive tints are designed to reject most infrared rays and emit a minimal amount of IR. These types of tints have a higher TSER rating and are more effective at keeping the cabin of your vehicle cooler than lower-grade films.
In addition to heat absorption, a quality tint will filter out the majority of ultraviolet rays that can damage your skin and fade your vehicle’s upholstery. This is particularly important if you live in a sunny climate, as prolonged exposure can lead to skin cancer and other health issues. A professionally applied tint will block up to 99 percent of UV rays.
While the benefits of window tinting are clear it is important to remember that there are laws governing the level of darkness you can have on your car’s windows. If you choose a tint that allows in less than the percentage required by your state’s law, you can be pulled over and receive costly tickets. In some cases, the windows may need to be removed and replaced with a film that complies with your state’s regulations.
Window armor tints are also a great deterrent for thieves. The window tint film holds the glass fragments together in case of a break, making it more difficult for criminals to enter your vehicle and steal items. Additionally, the dark tint will obscure your personal details from passers-by, further protecting your privacy and reducing the chances of road rage incidents.
Before you make your decision, it’s important to choose a professional shop that uses only the highest-quality films. A low-quality retailer film will have a shorter lifespan and require frequent replacement, while the best tints will last for years. These high-quality films are more expensive than the cheap ones you can buy online, but they’ll save you money in the long run and add to your car’s resale value.