How to Choose the Best Window Tint for Your Ride

The number of choices to make while deciding on a window tint for your vehicle can be overwhelming. When it comes to products, the options are almost endless.



Material, shade, color, and budget are all major factors to consider. These are all a matter of personal preference. But with the right information, you can be sure to find a balance that provides privacy, protection, comfort, and style that is best for you.

Types of Products

There are four major types of window tinting based on material: dyed, carbon, ceramic, and nano-ceramic film. Dyed film is the most cost-friendly. It is also the least durable.



Carbon film is stronger and provides increased heat deflection. But it can be prone to higher levels of glare and haze, resulting in decreased visibility.



Ceramic film mitigates many of these issues and is one of the more popular options for most vehicles. One drawback is that it can fade over time.



Nano-ceramic film is a new technology that combines the benefits of carbon and ceramic film. It provides exceptional heat and light protection while eliminating glare and haze. It also is extremely durable and unlikely to fade over time.



Window tinting can be applied to the side and rear vehicle windows, as well as windshields. States have different laws on the level of tint, or “visible light transmission” (VLT), for each window. A reputable installer will be able to provide you with this information.

Safety

Did you know that skin cancer is more prevalent on the left side of your body and in areas exposed to the sun while driving? And the likelihood of skin cancer increases with the amount of time spent behind the wheel.



The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that you take steps to protect yourself. High-quality window tint can act as a sunscreen, blocking up to 99 percent of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. It is a long-term solution to protecting your skin! 



It is important to remember that not all window tints are UV reflecting. The level of protection is something you will want to ask about when selecting a product.



Tint also can help reduce window glare and haze. This can increase visibility and decrease the likelihood of an accident. The National Institutes of Health has found that vehicle window tint can significantly improve visibility. Other research institutions throughout the world have made similar conclusions regarding the effects of window tinting on driver safety.

Comfort and Style

Heat from the sun can become trapped inside vehicles, especially in hot climates or for cars parked outside. It also can lead to upholstery damage or destruction of personal belongings left inside the vehicle.

Heat deflection is another reason to select a UV-reflecting tint. It can go a long way to helping protect your car and everything in it, while making it more comfortable.



Window tint can also make your car stand out. With a variety of available colors, it is easy to customize tint to the driver’s personal style and preference. Most installers offer options in charcoal, black, gray, gold, bronze, and others.

Privacy

The amount of shading is one of the most widely considered factors in selecting window tint. This corresponds to the level of visible light, heat, and glare allowed through the window.



In terms of light reflection, there are two types of film: non-reflective and metalized. Non-reflective film absorbs solar rays and can offer both glare and heat reduction. Metalized tint provides an increased level of privacy by almost completely reflecting the sun's rays.



In order to achieve an external “mirror” effect, metalized film must reflect light at a 3:1 ratio, meaning the outside of the window reflects light three times as much as the inside. This level of privacy can keep someone from viewing the inside of the vehicle and help prevent theft. 



Transparent tint is also available. This can afford protection against UV light and limit heat absorption, while not limiting visibility. These special films offer most other protections but do not obstruct the driver's vision.



Like color, it is also worth noting that laws pertaining to the level of shading vary by state. A reputable installer can provide you with a product that both meets your needs and is within the provisions of the law.

Not Just for Your Vehicle

The same advantages of vehicle tinting are available for your home or business as well. Window shading is proven to impact energy efficiency. It can increase privacy and reduce the likelihood of break-ins. It will add strength to the window. And it can reduce glare while improving the comfort of the room. 

Prioritize Quality

The superior advantages of window tinting can be negated by poor quality. There are lots of off-market brands that may appear to offer the same benefits as high-quality window tints. But many of these products fail to offer the same protection and durability, and often have limited warranties.



The best thing you can do is visit a professional car window tinting shop and speak to a specialist about what options are right for you. Most dealers offer a free estimate for an installation, so there’s nothing to lose by requesting information. 



It is important to seek out an installer who can offer premium service and customization, as well as a lasting warranty. Maximum Shade Tinting uses the latest equipment and techniques to deliver a quality product at a reasonable price.