Working in much the same way as a window film, a heat-blocking transparent film is basically a sheet of special plastic that adheres to your windows or windshield, filtering out the heat and UV radiation while allowing as much as 90 percent of visible light into the car. Car Maintenance Tips. Car Hacks. Nelson Ireson automotive freelance journalist. Reducing your need to squint while you're on the road can help you drive safely. The glare from the sun might otherwise cause you to notice an oncoming car too late.
In addition to filtering out the sunlight, window tints can also filter out the heat. When choosing tinted car windows, make sure they're thermally selective. These filters will minimize how much solar heat can enter your car. Regulating the temperature within your car will keep you from turning up the AC and improve your car's functionality. While there are many benefits of adding a car tint, there are some cons you should consider, too.
For example, before you get your windows tinted, consider the visibility. One of the reasons cops pull people over for dark window tints is that it can interfere with vision. An accident might occur as a result. You might not think this is a problem during the day when it's sunny out.
At night, however, you might have a difficult time seeing an oncoming car. It can also cause problems during sunsets or stormy weather. If you think tinted car windows might interfere with your visibility, reconsider.
Prioritize driving safely for your sake and the sake of other drivers. When asking yourself, "Should I get my windows tinted? For example, in Florida , tinted car windows must allow:. The above requirements are for sedans. SUVs and vans, however, have different requirements. Another benefit of tinted car windows is their ability to protect your health. Tinted windows can block out ultraviolet UV light, which can cause health concerns like:.
It's important to apply sunscreen before heading outside to protect your skin from the sun. Tinted windows can add an extra layer of protection to reduce your risk of skin cancer.
You might also decide to get your car windows tinted for a vision-related purpose. For example, you might have lupus, melanoma, photosensitivity, or sun allergies. In these cases, you fall under the list of exemptions that could allow you to request a darker tint.
In order to qualify for these medical exemptions, you'll need proof. Otherwise, an officer might pull you over and ask for documentation, which must include:. Don't request a tint that's darker than legally allowed unless you have this documentation. Otherwise, you might have to pay a fine. You can contact your state's DMV office regarding the legal limits for your state. They'll also let you know if an exemption is allowed in your area. Getting your car windows tinted can also protect your car's interior.
UV rays can damage your car the same way they can damage human skin. After a prolonged period, sun exposure can degrade your car's trim and upholstery. You might notice your interior has started to fade, split, or crack as well. If you're asking yourself, "Should I get my windows tinted," consider how much you value your car. Chances are you want your vehicle to look its best as long as possible. Also, window tinting helps reduce the glare of oncoming headlights when it's dark out.
Tinted windows also protect you and your passengers from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Even if your commute is under half an hour a day, your arms, face, and possibly legs are being exposed to harmful rays. UV rays are the leading cause of skin cancer. If you aren't in the habit of wearing sunscreen each time you get in the car, your skin is even more vulnerable to the sun's powerful rays.
Also, you can get a clear windshield tint if you don't like the look of a darker view. This gives you all the benefits of tinted windows without changing your car's look or your visibility. Last, of all, tinted windows protect both the driver and passengers from broken glass in case of an accident. The film acts as a glue to keep shards together in the window frame and away from your face and body. Window tinting is a process that blocks light and UV rays from passing through the window.
There are various grades of tinting that you can have. Window tint is measured in terms of how much visible light gets through. This is measured in a percentage called visible light transmission or VLT.
The lower the VLT number, the darker the tinted windows are. A 50 percent windshield tint allows half of the sun's rays to penetrate.
Each state has laws regarding how dark a car's window tints can be. The level of tint depends also on which windows are tinted. Front and rear windows have different legal limits. When it comes to tinting your car's windows, you need to think about each set of windows separately. You have the front side windows which are the two windows at the front of the car next to the driver and passenger seats.
These windows tend to require a higher VLT so that both the driver and passenger are clearly visible from the outside. There is also the rear side windows where back seat passengers sit. Sometimes the VLT differs depending on if you have a passenger car or a multi-purpose vehicle. You also have a windshield and your rear window.
Windshields can't have tint in any state. Yet, you may be able to add a sticker where the manufacturer's sun shield is. Your rear window may be tinted.
Typically, the VLT for this window is the same as the rear windows but not always. Always contact your local DMV for the latest rules about car tint before you go through with it. Another consideration when choosing window tint is the color and finish. Some states have laws about the colors permitted. There may also be restrictions on the use of reflective or mirrored tints.
Be sure to carefully research these specifications before you purchase any tinting.
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