If you have been looking for a complete guide on the different kinds of auto window tinting, the laws behind them, and whether or not you should attempt to do DIY car window tinting yourself, you are in the right place. So, without further ado, let us begin.

Advantages of Tinting Your Car’s Windows

Ultraviolet rays present in sunlight can be quite damaging even for the best quality upholstery. It makes the upholstery fades in stages, making your car look old and worn out. It’s also no secret that being exposed to UV rays for long periods of time is bad for you, in some cases even causing skin cancer.

Window tinting blocks harmful rays from the sun. It’s something you’ll definitely need if you live in a hot area and want to stay cool, while ensuring your car stays in good condition. Moreover, depending on the level of tinting you get, it’s harder for other people to see into the car and you’ll feel like a celebrity even just taking a trip down to the grocery store.

Common Types of Car Window Tints

It’s important to understand all the different types of tints at your disposal before choosing one for your car. Not doing your research, you end up with the wrong type of tint which may end up costing you double to replace. A few options available in the market today are:

1. Infrared Films

Perfect for states that have strict tinting regulations as it provides you all the advantages of a regular tint without hindering visibility.

2. Metallic Films

Metallic film, as the name suggests, is made of metal and is therefore ideal for shielding you against all sorts of electromagnetic waves. This is also its biggest downside as it means you won’t be getting any cell signal while inside the car.

3. Carbon Films

Carbon films are known for being durable and long-lasting, and they block more heat and UV rays than most other tinting types.

4. Coating Films

This is one of the most effective auto glass tinting options you can get for your car, however the application is a bit of a hassle as it requires complete disassembly of all the windows so the coating can directly be sprayed onto the glass.

5. OEM Tinting

Many modern cars come with tinting built into the glass of the windows. As with most OEM products, this type of tinting is just a make do option and doesn’t really provide any significant advantages over other forms of tinting, so if you are paying extra for this in your new car purchase, skip it.

Legality of Aftermarket Window Tinting

Each state has different car window tinting laws regarding the darkness of the tint legally allowed, so be sure to do you research beforehand.

Picking the Right Car Window Tinting

Before you pick a tint for your car, some of the features you may look for include:

1. Shade

The shade is the color of the window tint. You will want a tint that is in line with state laws — as many states ban certain colors — and is aesthetically pleasing to your vehicle’s overall look.

2. Color stability

How well will the color hold up over years of exposure to UV radiation? Look for window tint choices with long color stability. A color stability rating of less than 1 is excellent.

3. Clarity

For your safety, you need window film for your car that offers clear visibility, reducing reflection and improving clarity during the day and at night.

4. Solar Control

If it’s too hot inside your car, solar control is critical. Excessive heat creates an atmosphere that’s uncomfortable and unsafe for your car’s interior.

Is DIY Window Tinting A Good Idea?

Tinting your car windows on your own is not an easy job, and if you don’t possess the expertise and experience, you’ll end up with bubbles or creases in the finished product. You’re probably better off seeking the services of a professional.

So, there you have it. Now you know everything there is to know about car window tinting, and armed with this newly obtained knowledge, you can make a better decision about whether or not you want to visit window tint shops Springfield.