Famous automotive magazine Car and Driver published an article called “Is Car Window Tinting a Good Idea?”. We wanted to summarize that article for you discussing the benefits and things to be concerned about regarding having your vehicle windows tinted.
The article starts by discussing what window tinting is by saying that it is “the process of applying a thin laminate film to a vehicle’s glass in order to darken it.” While this is for the most part true, newer technology films can offer significant benefits while remaining nearly undetectable on the glass. While the performance of the film is an important element, the article points out that, “there are purely aesthetic reasons as well for applying car window tint. It doesn’t hurt that some people think that tinted car windows look cool“.
As the article continues, it discusses the other reasons besides looks that someone might consider having their windows tinted. “The reasons people choose to tint the windows of an automobile vary. These might include privacy or security; protection from UV rays including UVA, the ones responsible for causing skin cancer; and reducing solar gain (interior heat) and thus incrementally improving fuel economy; and cutting down on glare from the sun.”
Protection from UV rays is often overlooked or misunderstood when thinking about car window tinting, the article does a good job of explaining. “While the standard glass used in car windows can block some UV radiation, a car window tint of good quality from a reputable manufacturer —if applied correctly—can help increase protection from ultraviolet radiation. It can also help preserve the interior of your car, including the upholstery, carpeting, and dashboard, which can fade over time by exposure to sunlight.” You can learn even more about exposure to harmful UV rays while in a vehicle by referring to this article from The Skin Cancer Foundation entitled “Are You in the Know About This Sun Protection Strategy?”
Last, but certainly not least, the article discussed being aware of what the laws pertaining to vehicle window tint are in your area. As the article states, “The amount of light that a window tint allows into the interior varies greatly, and affects how well you can see out. Every state has its own regulations and laws pertaining to the level of darkness it allows for automotive window tints. The volume of light that can pass through your window is referred to as variable light transmission, or VLT. Each state has different regulations concerning VLT percentage“. It’s a good idea to check your local tint laws by clicking HERE.
We hope that you found this article on car window tinting to be informative as you make your decision regarding having your vehicle’s windows tinted. If you have questions about our services, contact us at 210-863-1633. We are your premier source for automotive window tint in the San Antonio, Texas area.