Understanding Tinted Windshields
Tinted windshields, a staple in the automotive world for several decades, are an integral part of enhancing your driving experience. These are essentially thin films applied to your windshield, designed to reduce light penetration without compromising visibility. Despite being a significant investment, the multitude of benefits offered by tinted windshields make them a worthwhile addition to your vehicle.
The Benefits of Tinted Windshields
Solar Heat Reduction
Tinted windshields are designed to block 45-50% of solar heat, thereby reducing the interior temperature of your vehicle. This not only enhances comfort but also reduces the need for air conditioning, thereby improving fuel efficiency and reducing stress on your vehicle’s components.
Glare Reduction
Tinted windshields are adept at reducing sun glare, a common issue faced by drivers. Even tints that are almost entirely clear can effectively block blinding solar light, reducing glare by up to 30%. This can significantly improve your driving experience, especially during commutes into the sun.
UV Light Protection
Tinted windshields can block up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet light, thereby protecting both you and your passengers. Prolonged exposure to UV light can lead to several health issues, including skin cancer. Additionally, UV light can also damage the interior of your car, including plastics and leathers. By reducing UV light exposure, tinted windshields can help prolong the lifespan of your car’s interior.
Enhanced Glass Strength
Certain types of tints can significantly enhance the strength of your windshield, making it virtually shatterproof. This not only protects you during traffic accidents but also deters successful break-ins.
Exploring the Types of Tinted Windshields
There are several types of windshield tints available in the market today, each offering unique benefits.
Metalized Tint
Metalized tints use tiny metallic particles to reflect light and reduce heat. While these particles are invisible to the naked eye, they can interfere with electronic devices such as GPS, radio, and cell phones.
Carbon Window Tint
Unlike metalized tints, carbon window tints do not use metal and hence do not interfere with electronic devices. They can block up to 40% of infrared light, thereby keeping your vehicle cool during hot summer days.
IR Ceramic Film
IR Ceramic films use tiny ceramic particles to protect the vehicle and the driver from heat, UV light, and infrared light. These tints are often recommended for windshields, providing up to 80% visible light transmission (VLT).
Choosing the Right Windshield Tint
When choosing a tint for your car, it’s important to consider each window separately. The front side windows require a higher VLT to ensure the driver is visible from outside the car. Windshields, on the other hand, cannot have a dark tint in any state, requiring a tint with a VLT of 80% or more. The rear window may also be tinted, but some states require a similarly high VLT as your windshield. It’s recommended to contact your state’s DMV for more information on local laws regarding window tint before applying tint to your vehicle.
Installing Tinted Windshields
Installing a tinted windshield requires a set of specific tools and a careful process to ensure a smooth and bubble-free finish. The process involves preparing the vehicle, preparing the film, and installing the windshield tint. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure a successful installation.
Conclusion
Tinted windshields are more than just an aesthetic enhancement for your vehicle. They offer a range of benefits including solar heat reduction, glare reduction, UV light protection, and enhanced glass strength. With a variety of tints available, it’s important to choose the right one that suits your needs and complies with local laws. With careful installation, a tinted windshield can significantly enhance your driving experience and the longevity of your vehicle’s interior.
