Choosing the Right Window Tint Film for Your Car
So, you’re wanting to tint your car. When selecting the best window tint for your car, there are many factors to consider beyond simply blocking out the sun. The right window tint film can improve how comfortable you feel in your car.
What does it mean to get the best car window tint for you, and what’s the difference when you choose a darker tint? What do all those window tint percentages mean? Dark tint? Clear film? Legal tint? Darkest tint?
The right tint for your vehicle will reduce heat, block harmful UV rays, add privacy, and even enhance your car’s appearance. But buyer beware: Not all window tints are created equal… so this article should help you make an informed decision, give you tips for choosing the best films, so you can get the maximum benefits for your needs and choose the right window tint for your vehicle!
Understanding Car Window Tint Film Types
The most common types of window tints each have their own strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these options is key to making the right choice for you, your car, and your unique needs. Here are the broad types of tints available:
Dyed Window Tints
These are the most affordable option and primarily provide privacy. They do not block as much heat or UV light compared to other tints but offer a non-reflective, matte appearance .
Metalized Window Tints
Contain metal particles that reflect heat and damaging UV (ultraviolet) rays, providing better performance in terms of heat reduction. However, these films can interfere with electronic signals like GPS and phone reception .
Carbon Window Tints
These films offer better heat rejection and UV protection without the signal interference seen in metalized tints. They are known for their sleek appearance and durability .
Ceramic Window Tints
The highest-quality option, ceramic tints block the most heat and UV rays, offer great visibility, and don’t interfere with electronics. They also provide excellent glare reduction and durability. All the tints we offer for car tinting at 1300 Get Tint by Matt Bull offer our customers an excellent range of signal-friendly tints. Two of these (the Nexus and Extreme films) are what we consider to be the best ceramic auto window tints on the market, with the Extreme the one for the most discerning customer.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Window Tint
It’s not just about how clear or dark your tint is. Take a look at the main considerations that will colour your tint choice!
Legal Restrictions and Tint Percentages
Laws vary by state regarding how dark you can tint your windows. In Queensland, which is of course, our most relevant example, the legal limit for front side windows is 35% VLT (Visible Light Transmission), while rear windows can be darker with a VLT limited to 20% if you’re reading this as a resident of any other state, be sure to check local regulations to avoid fines. For Queenslanders, we will guide you with the up-to-date legal requirements for all your vehicle tinting needs.
Queensland does not allow a tint on the front windscreen (except for the top 10%).
UV and Heat Rejection Capabilities
One of the key reasons to apply window tint is to protect yourself from UV rays and reduce heat in your car. High-quality tints like ceramic films block up to 99% of UV rays, preventing skin damage and fading of your car’s interior.
Privacy and Aesthetic Appeal
Privacy films can obscure visibility from the outside, making it harder for others to see into your vehicle while still allowing you to see out. Different films offer varying degrees of privacy, from lightly tinted windows to nearly opaque finishes.
Glare Reduction and Safety
Window tinting helps reduce the glare from the sun. This makes driving more comfortable and safer, especially during bright daylight hours. UV protection is instrumental in reducing the ill effects of glare.
Durability and Warranty
Check the fine print! Always invest in window films that are durable and come with a good warranty. Some high-quality ceramic tints come with lifetime warranties, ensuring long-lasting performance and protection. At 1300 Get Tint by Matt Bull, we offer a lifetime warranty on home and car tinting.
What to Look for in a Quality Window Tint
To get the most out of your window tint investment, prioritize films that have been tested for their ability to reject heat, block UV rays, and maintain their color over time. Also, ensure that the installer is certified and provides warranty coverage, as a poor installation can negate even the best-quality films’ benefits.
The terms you’ll find referred to on your quest to find the best tints are:
- Visible Light Transmission %: The percentage of visible light that passes through a window film.
- Glare Reduction %: The percentage reduction in brightness or glare provided by window film.
- Solar Energy Rejection %: The percentage of total solar energy (heat) blocked by the film.
- Ultraviolet Rejection %: The percentage of ultraviolet (UV) radiation blocked by the window tint. (All window tint options at 1300 Get Tint reject 99% UV.)
Choose the Best of the Car Window Tints
You want the perfect window tint. Choosing the best window tint for your car is a matter of balancing legal restrictions, personal comfort, and your aesthetic preferences.
You’ll also want to choose a tint installer that you trust. All tint shops don’t offer the same quality of tints, environment, and attention to detail. It helps to choose a tinter who doesn’t work out of their home garage, who has high-tech equipment and lighting, and who has years of expertise you can rely on. Hint, hint… shameless plug for Matt Bull!
Whether you prioritize privacy, heat reduction, or style, there’s a tint out there that will meet your needs. By understanding the different types of films and their benefits, you can confidently make the right choice for your vehicle. We’d love to help you make the right decision for you. Call us on 0400 700 154 at 1300 Get Tint by Matt Bull. We’re always more than happy to answer any questions.
