The market for car window tinting is worth $3.65 billion. It’s a common detailing procedure, but it’s not just for aesthetic appeal. Window tints keep out criminals, block UV rays, control the temperature of your vehicle, prevent interior fading, and more. These are a few of the reasons why they’ve become so popular. Two tinted windows may not look different to the naked eye, but there is one important factor that sets them apart; car tint percentages. They show how much light is kept out. The darkness of a window tint determines how much protection and privacy it offers. It also determines whether it’s legal in your state or not.
Read on to learn how car tint percentages differ and how to choose the right one.
What Are Car Tint Percentages?
There are several types of auto tint to choose from. They include:
- Dyed
- Metalized
- Hybrid
- Carbon
- Ceramic
These types use different materials, come at different price points, and have their pros and cons. Despite their differences, they all block light and measure how much they keep away using the same method.
All car window tint percentages are based on VLT or visible light transmission. This determines how much light can get through the tint. The lower the percentage, the less light can make it through.
Tint Percentage Options
5% VLT is as dark as most tints can go. It doesn’t let any light through the windows and is only found in private cars and limousines.
A 20% tint lets some light in but makes it more difficult to see distant objects. It offers a high level of privacy because onlookers can only see through the windows if they get close.
35% is one of the most popular car window tint percentages. It’s aesthetically pleasing and increases privacy
A 50% tint is the most powerful. It’s the best at providing all the benefits of tinted windows, including:
- UV protection
- Eye strain and glare reduction
- Temperature control
These are a few of the most common car window tint percentages. There are several other options, but most shops will offer tints that use these standard measurements.
Choosing the Right Percentage
Comparing car tint percentages is the best way to decide which one is right for you. Weigh the pros and cons of each option before you have any of them installed on your car.
Always consider whether the percentage you’ve chosen is legal, looks the way you want it to, and gives you the benefits you expect. It’s also important to choose a quality film and find the right installer.
Legality
Always look into the car window tint laws in your state. They determine how dark each of your windows can go. You may have to choose a different percentage for each one to stay compliant.
The laws also determine whether you can tint your windows at all. Certain states forbid it entirely. They may not allow you to place any film on certain windows or the windshield.
If the percentage you’ve chosen is too low, you could face hefty fines and be forced to replace the tint. Choosing the right percentage the first time helps you avoid these issues.
Appearance
Window tints are aesthetically appealing and trendy if you choose the right percentage. Picking the wrong one can ruin your car’s look and stick out like a sore thumb.
Make sure you choose a percentage that isn’t too dark or too light. It should match the appearance of your car and fit the image you’re looking for.
One thing that may help you make your choice is looking at a few cars in your area. Check out how dark their windows are. You may even be able to ask the drivers about the tint percentage they chose.
Preferences
Decide which of the benefits of getting your windows tinted is most important to you. There may be reasons to sacrifice one to get more of another.
If your primary concern is privacy and safety, go for 25%. It provides enough darkness to keep criminals and passersby from looking into your car without obscuring your vision.
If you’re more concerned with UV protection, glare reduction, or temperature control, go for 50%. You’ll be safer and more comfortable and won’t have bright lights keeping you from seeing while you drive.
If you want a tint that sits firmly in the middle, go for 35%. It offers a high level of privacy and protection and is legal in many states.
Type of Film
There are several types of car tint films to choose from, and finding the right one is as important as choosing the right percentage.
Find a high-quality film from a reputable, well-reviewed brand. Look for one that you can enjoy for years and won’t have to replace or get reinstalled.
One of the best options for almost any vehicle is the Llumar pinnacle. It’s durable, has a long warranty, and provides a high level of heat and UV protection.
Installer
The final decision to make when tinting your car’s windows is choosing the right installer. Take the time to find a shop with a great reputation and plenty of experience.
They can recommend the right percentage for your car based on its look and the laws in your state. You won’t have to worry about hating the way it looks or getting pulled over by the police.
They’ll also give you clean results. You won’t have bubbles or imperfections that make you waste time and money getting the film reinstalled.
More Window Tinting Tips
Window tinting is a common practice with several benefits. It keeps out the heat, deters criminals, and protects against UV rays.
The darkness of the film is measured by VLT or visible light transmission. The lower it is, the lower the amount of light that can get through.
Most local laws determine a range of car tint percentages you can choose from. Pick one that fits your preferences and the look of your car. Choose a quality film and a reputable installer.
Read the rest of our content for more window tinting tips.