Questions you need to ask before tinting your car windows

The Benefits of Window Tinting

Tinting your windows brings an element of cool to your ride, but did you know that there are multiple benefits to it as well? Tinting your windows is far more complex than one might think, so it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of what is involved in the process beforehand.

Below, we explore the benefits of this feature and dive into the important questions to ask before having your car windows tinted.

An Added Layer of Security

Car thieves don’t typically break into vehicles unless they see something worth taking. A backpack, laptop or purse can be very tempting to a thief who may be walking by your vehicle. Tinted windows can help prevent thieves from spotting your valuables.

Accident Safety

Safety is paramount. Windows in vehicles are designed to break in a safe manner, however, passengers can be in danger from shards of glass, which may fly when a window shatters. Window tint ensures that the glass breaks in one large piece, keeping the vehicle’s occupants safer from glass debris.

Protection from Harmful UV Rays

If you spend a lot of time in your vehicle, this feature can benefit you tremendously. Window tint is made to block up to 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays, protecting your skin from damage.

The Cool Factor – In More Ways Than One

Window tint can block more than 70% of solar energy from entering your vehicle. True story. Your car won’t only be cooler when it is parked in the sun, but it can keep you cool when you drive too, minimizing your use of air conditioning.

What You Should Ask Before You Tint

1. Which Automotive Tint is Best for Your Vehicle?

There are a variety of window tints to choose from. Each, offering specific characteristics, pros and cons. Speak to your professional about which brands they offer based on quality, pricing and aesthetic appeal. Know your options so that you can choose the tint that is most suitable to your needs, preferences and price range.

2. How Dark Will the Tint Be?

Besides having to comply with tint laws, which we will get into a little further in this article, darker tint can lead to impaired vision and hinder rescue operations if you’re ever in an accident. Less can be more. Speak to your professional about the different tint gradients available to you.

3. How Long Can I Expect My Tint to Last?

Depending on which option you choose, window tint can last, on average, between 5-10 years. It is definitely a “you get what you pay for” type of scenario. Lower quality tints that are exposed to sunlight regularly can begin to fade in months. Bubbling and colour changes are the result of either a low-quality tint or poor installation. Ensure that you protect your investment by hiring a professional to install tint for you.

4. Is Window Tint Covered by Warranty?

Most quality products come with a limited lifetime warranty, however, you should confirm if the product you are selecting comes with a warranty and what the warranty period and conditions are prior to purchasing the film. It is also important to ensure that your warranty documentation is filled out by your installer.

5. What Are the Laws Around Tinting in My Area?

It is important to research specific laws in your area. Your professional can help guide you as they may differ by region. In general, windshields cannot be tinted. In Ontario, for example, front passenger and driver window tinting are not recommended, however, if tinted, they must not filter more than 30% of light. The backside windows and rear windows do not have specific tint rules, therefore darker tint may be used. Your local professional can assist with determining tint laws in your local area.

6. What Is the Best Way to Maintain My Tint After Application?

Speak to your professional about which product is best to use on the tint that you have selected. Some tints can be affected by ammonia-based products and may require the use of gentler cleaners. Improper solutions used on specific tints can cause discolouration or fading. It is also recommended that you use microfiber cloth as using a more abrasive fabric can cause scratches, which would be far more noticeable on a tinted window.

7. How Long Will the Installation Take?

The length of time it will take for your tint job to be completed will depend on the number of windows you are tinting. On average, it is a two- to four-hour job. Your professional can advise you on what to expect for your particular vehicle and requirements.

8. How Long Should I Keep Windows Up After Tinting

Curing and adhesion to the glass are very important after your windows have been tinted. It is recommended that you keep your windows up for at least 24 hours. Longer to be safe.

A Worthwhile Benefit

The list of benefits that come with tinting your car windows is long and solid. From preventing premature interior wear, to increase fuel economy by keeping your vehicle cooler in summer, reducing the need for air conditioning, to keeping your valuables safer and increasing safety in case of an accident, the choice to tint your windows is a smart one. Speak to your local professional to get information on your specific needs.