It’s estimated that the global automotive tinting film market is worth at least $3.88 billion. When you consider how car window tints have both a functional and aesthetic appeal, this shouldn’t come as a huge surprise.
However, knowing how much to tint car windows can often be a challenge. This is especially true if you’ve never done it before. After all, you want your windows to look great, but you also don’t want to break any laws.
If you’re on the fence about how much tint to add to your windows, you’re in the perfect place. This guide will walk you through understanding the different car tint percentages, as well as the pros and cons that come with them.
Car Tint Percentage
When we talk about car tint percentage, we’re referring to the visible light transmission (aka VLT). Typically, these amounts will range from 5% to 90%.
Now, you might think that the higher the percentage, the darker the tint will be. However, the opposite is true. A tint that’s around 5% is nearly pitch black, while a larger amount like 90% will still let plenty of light inside.
How Much to Tint Car Windows to Stay Within the Law
It’s important to remember that different states have different laws surrounding window tints. State window tint laws will normally specify the legal limits regarding visible light transmission.
Typically, they’ll clarify that these limits apply to either the front, back, or rear windows. For example, here in the state of Texas where we’re located, window tints can’t go any lower than 25% VLT.
However, strict states like Iowa will only allow 70% VLT in the front window. That’s why it’s important to check the car window tinting laws in the state where you reside.
If you break the law, the police officers can pull over your vehicle and give you a ticket.
Not only will you need to pay for this costly ticket, but you’ll also have to replace your window tint with a new expensive one. As such, a little research can save you a lot of money.
Think About the Look of Your Vehicle
The first thing you should consider when tinting your vehicle’s car is the overall look of it. Remember that a tint will transform the outside aesthetic of your vehicle.
In some cases, a completely black tint might clash with the color of your car. However, you shouldn’t just think about the exterior. A low window tint percentage will make everything in the interior of your car much darker.
If you love how the interior of your car looks you’ll want to go with a higher VLT. That way others can see the details without you needing to turn on the lights.
Why Do You Want Your Car Windows Tinted?
Many people think that car window tints are only for appearance. However, the reality is that there are a lot of other reasons to consider there. One of the most common ones is to protect people from ultraviolet radiation.
In case you don’t know, UV rays not only contribute to skin aging and sunburns, but they can also lead to skin cancer. If your goal is to protect yourself from UV rays, then a VLT between 35% to 50% is usually a good balance.
It’s dark enough to block out most of the sun, while still letting some in for visibility. However, what if you don’t want a dark tint but still need UV protection? In that case, we recommend investing in a translucent film.
These films still provide a good deal of UV protection, while not increasing the darkness around your windows.
Another common reason for window tints is for privacy car windows. If you want privacy, then we recommend a tint that is 25% VLT or lower.
This can help reduce break-ins since no one can see what you keep in your car. It can also protect your identity while you drive. Again, just make sure you remain within the legal limits specified by your state.
The Importance of High-Quality Tint Film
Think you can save some money by purchasing affordable tint films online? Think again. While you might save a little money initially buying cheap window films, you’ll pay for it one way or another.
Most commonly these films come with a low lifespan. As such, they’ll begin to peel or degrade within years or even months. Since replacing them can be expensive, you’ll likely end up spending more overall.
Instead, ask a professional for their recommendation when it comes to the best window tint. Or research it yourself to learn the top brands. It might represent an investment initially, but you’ll save a lot of money down the road because of their improved lifespan.
Make Sure It’s Done Professionally
You might also be tempted to save a few bucks by installing the window tints yourself. While you certainly can go the DIY route, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should.
Why? Because it takes years of training to prevent car window films from bubbling up. Film bubbles not only make your vehicle look run-down, but they can also lead to faded colors more quickly.
Instead, choose a professional proven professional that specializes in automotive window tints.
Ideally, they should have plenty of five-star reviews. A guarantee on the window film is also a huge plus. It means they’re confident enough to stand by the quality of their work.
Need Automotive Window Film? Contact Fletch Window Tint
We hope this guide helped you learn how much to tint car windows. As you can see, as long as you’re within the legal limits there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to tint percentage.
However, if you’re on the fence, consider reaching out to a professional for advice. Here at Fletch Window Tint, we have over thirty years of experience with car window tinting.
Not only will we consult with you to find the right tint percentage, but we’ll also set you up with films that come with a limited lifetime guarantee. So contact us today to get the automatic film that you deserve.