People choose to tint the windows of an automobile for multiple reasons such as protection against UV rays, privacy, security, and reduction of sun glare. Some car owners apply tint films solely for a premium look. Besides these apparent benefits, the automotive window tint film improves fuel economy by keeping vehicles cool inside. It also holds shattered glass in place in case of an accident.
A car window tint provides a shield against ultraviolet radiation to the commuters, interiors, and belongings in the car. Its application helps maintain the upholstery, carpeting, and dashboard by preventing fading and cracking due to sun exposure. Suitable tint on windshield screen prevents sun glare and allows easy driving in direct sunlight and scorching heat. The brand and technology used in films play a huge role in the quality and lifespan of the tints and, in turn, car and skin care.
Automotive Window Tint Film Selection
The window tints vary in the amount of light they allow in the interiors and outside visibility. The technicians refer to it as variable light transmission (VLT). The states define the upper limit for the VLT in a window or windshield screen tint. California law allows VLT up to 70% for front windshield and front side windows and puts no restriction on rear windshield VLT.
Tints’ features, protection levels, and durability vary from brand to brand and product to product. Most car window tints have darker hues in shades of brown or black. However, the 3M Crystalline Series offers clear and transparent automotive window tint film built with nanotechnology that rejects up to 60% solar energy and 97% heat-producing infrared rays. It reduces glare, blocks UV rays up to 99.9%, protects skin and interiors with 1000+ SPF, and enhances night visibility. FX Premium Series offers affordable non-metalized window film that rejects up to 45% of the total solar energy and blocks UV light up to 99%.
Prerequisites for Tint Installation
Vehicle owners must conduct sufficient research and determine the VLT and the tints they want in their vehicles before starting the job. They can consult the established auto glass tint centers for available options and their suitability. After finalizing and buying the appropriate ones, they can look for professional or self-install window services to apply the tint films. The flawless installations of tint films on auto windows require the following,
Dust-free Space: The technicians or vehicle owners should have a dust-free space to prevent debris from entering or sticking to the films during their application. A dust collection system helps control and contain dust in any garage or workshop.
Suitable Tools and Supplies: The installers must have appropriate tools such as a razor blade, razor knife, scraper, squeegee, and heat gun, besides a tint application solution and a cleaning cloth. The professionals have a ready-to-use tint application tool kit for regular tint application and a model-specific pre-cut kit to prevent cutting mishaps for particular automobile tint applications.
Patience and Skills: Rushing is a BIG NO during the tint application process. The first-timers should go through the instruction manual before starting. The technicians or vehicle owners must take their time, measure twice, and cut films with the right tools and techniques for the first time.
The Bottom Line
Prior interaction with experienced technicians can help vehicle owners apply window tints perfectly. If the owners feel they need more confidence in DIY installation, they can assign this job to a professional and save themselves from the trouble, time, and headache.