The days of having to hang real curtains in your van or station wagon are long gone. These days, a lot of vehicles come with tinted windows as standard equipment straight off the assembly line, but there is a rising demand for window tint to be added to already-owned cars or cars that are not tinted. The interior of your automobile can stay comfortably cool and your energy consumption can be significantly reduced with car window tinting. If you are searching for window tinting near me to get your car windows tinted, this write-up will help you know about different types of it and important things to consider.
Different Types of Window Tint
1. Carbon Tint
- Features: Carbon tint is an automotive window tint gaining popularity for several key features. Unlike traditional dyed films, carbon tint uses a layer of carbon nanoparticles to block heat and glare. This provides better heat rejection, reducing vehicle interior temperatures by up to 50°F. Carbon films also maintain high visibility for drivers, rejecting up to 98% of infrared light while allowing more visible light to pass through. These films also block 99% of UV rays, preventing interior fading.
- Cost: Despite advanced performance, carbon films have comparable pricing to traditional dyed films. When you look for window tinting near me, you should know that bulk rolls can be purchased for $100 to $300 with professional installation adding $100 or more per window depending on your vehicle.
2. Ceramic Tint
- Features: Made of microscopic ceramic particles, the tint blocks up to 97% of infrared light to drastically reduce solar heat transmittance and lower interior vehicle temperatures. Importantly, ceramic films maintain high visible light transmission, avoiding the darkening effect of dyed films while complying with regulations. Ceramic tint also blocks 99% of UV rays to protect passengers and interiors from damage. It also acts as a shield against wireless signals for enhanced security and privacy.
- Cost: While professional installation pushes costs higher, bulk ceramic film can be purchased for $100 to $500 per roll, with complete installation ranging from $250 up to $1000 or more depending on factors like vehicle type and number of windows. It delivers superior performance, but at roughly 2 to 4 times the cost of standard films.
3. Crystalline Tint
- Features: Crystalline tint consists of a thin film layered with microscopic crystals that provide unmatched heat rejection and glare reduction compared to traditional dyed films. Tests show crystalline tints can block over 97% of infrared light while maintaining 70% visibility, keeping interiors cooler while retaining more clarity. Importantly, they meet regulations for visible light transmission. The crystalline structure also blocks 99% of UV rays to protect skin and interiors.
- Cost: From a cost perspective, crystalline tint ranges from about $100 to $400 per roll for bulk film. However, the complex installation of the easily-damaged film means professional application is recommended, typically costing $500 to $1200 depending on the vehicle. But for those seeking the highest performance tint, the investment brings significant benefits in comfort, clarity, protection and aesthetics.
4. Dyed Tint
- Features: Most people who look for window tinting near me, usually get Dyed tint for their car window as it is the most common and affordable variety of automotive window tint. Consisting of a thin polyester layer with dye embedded, it works by absorbing and reflecting light to reduce glare and heat transmittance. Dyed films block 20% to 70% of visible light, meeting most regulations while darkening windows to varying degrees. They reject up to 85% of infrared light and 99% of UV rays.
- Cost: Bulk film of dyed tint can be purchased for as little as $20 per roll and professional installation typically ranges from $100 to $200 per vehicle. For a basic affordable upgrade, dyed tint can deliver simpler glare reduction and privacy at a fraction of the cost of advanced nanofilms.
Important Things to Consider
When you are looking for window tinting near me, you should be aware of a few things before going for it. Those include-
1. Check your state laws
There are laws in most states that regulate allowable levels of window tint, especially for vehicles' front windows. Make sure you understand what darkness levels are permitted in your state for different windows, like windshield, front side windows, rear windows etc. Going darker than regulations allow can lead to fix-it tickets or even fines, so checking your local tint laws is crucial.
2. Consider infrared heat & glare reduction
The percentage of total solar energy rejected is important for cooling and glare reduction. While darker tint blocks more visible light, advanced nanofilms can reject more heat and glare while maintaining visibility. Consider your priorities - cooling/heat rejection versus darker appearance. Getting quotes with advanced options like ceramic, crystalline or carbon tints can maximise heat/glare reduction beyond basic dyed films.
3. Research reputable professional installers
Proper window film installation is challenging and best left to experienced professionals. Poor installation can lead to bubbling, purple hazing of film over time or even needing replacement. A thorough research is always recommended before you choose window tinting near me. Many back their work with lifetime warranties, providing peace of mind on quality. Going with the right installer is key to achieving performance and aesthetics you’ll be happy with.
4. Carefully measure window dimensions
To receive an accurate quote and ensure the correct amount of film is purchased and installed, installers need precise measurements of each window requiring tint. Supply them the exact height x width dimensions of every window being tinted. Provide details like any odd shapes of rear windows and existence of any built-in antennae in the window film path. Accurate measurements are crucial for both ordering and cutting film to fit correctly.
Conclusion
Window tinting can be challenging and time-consuming. It can also be highly expensive if used incorrectly. That is why many people search for window tinting near me. Before getting your car windows tinted, you must have a clear idea about tinting. This allows you to select the best and cost effective option for you.
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