Getting your car windows tinted can significantly improve the look of your vehicle, but only if it is done well. A bad car window tint job can leave your windows looking bubbled and peeling over time. Knowing the ins and outs of car window tinting can ensure that you get quality service that will keep your car looking great over time.

How does car window tinting work?

A polyester-based film is used to accomplish window tinting on car windows. The film includes tinting agents like metal and dyes, and the amount of these ingredients will determine the degree of tint.

After the film is applied, only certain types of light rays are able to pass through the film. All other light rays are either reflected or absorbed by the film. Tint levels are categorized by the percentage of visible light allowed through the film.

Once the desired film is selected, it will be applied to the inside of the car window. This placement protects the film from external factors that can cause wear, like debris and other objects that make contact with the window.

What does window tinting cost?

When shopping for window tinting, don’t be surprised if you encounter a wide range of price quotes. The costs can range anywhere from as low as $50 to over $800. Factors that can affect the cost of tinting include:

• The size and number of windows to be tinted
• The shape of the windows, as curved or steep windows can be more difficult
• The type of tint film, with specialty films like high-performance, colored, and metallic tinting costing more

Even if you don’t opt for specialty tinting, you can expect to pay more if you have a pickup truck with a slider window, with costs coming in at an average of $131. If you drive an SUV, crossover, or minivan, you can also expect increased costs, with costs coming in at $225 on the low end.

You should also expect additional costs if your car has an existing tint film that must be removed. While this cost can be as low as $25, it can rapidly increase if your car has defrosters or any other window feature that makes removal more difficult.

Benefits of a quality job

Window tinting brings with it a number of benefits, which are enhanced when you invest in a high-quality tint job. Just a few of the benefits of window tinting include:

• Ability to block up to 99% of UV rays
• Cooling car by at least 60%
• Protecting your car interior from fading and cracking
• Lowered risk of your windshield shattering

If you want to make the most of your tinting investment, it is worth investing in application by a professional. Using a professional comes with the following perks:

• Knowledge of state and local laws and regulations about lawful tint percentages
• Use of high-quality film
• Guarantee of even application, free of bubbles or debris
• Warranty against color change, bubbling, and peeling

Opting for specialty window tinting

If you are looking to take your tinting one step further, you could consider splurging for specialty tinting. The most common specialty films are metalized films.

These films cost more, but also do a better job reflecting the sun, increasing the tint’s ability to protect the car’s interior and keep the car cool. Colored films are also an option, with colors like black, charcoal, gray, gold, and bronze.

While less common, carbon, crystalline, and ceramic tinting is also an option. Carbon window tint film has a more attractive matte finish, while crystalline film provides the benefits of window tinting without making the car windows dark. Ceramic is one of the newest forms of window tinting that is more expensive but has proven the quality of its performance.

If you are ready to enhance your vehicle with car window tinting, make sure you consider all your options and invest in quality installation.