The Ultimate Guide to Car Window Tinting: Types, Application, Cost, Benefits

Are you thinking about getting your car windows tinted but aren't completely sure? Check out this guide to car window tinting to help with your decision.

You've heard the rumors. 

Tinting your car's windows will give you all kinds of benefits... but is that really true? If you're on the fence about installing car window tinting, we've put together this guide to answer all your questions and show you real, proven advantages of applying window tint. 

Let's get started! 

All the Different Types of Window Tint: How to Choose the Right One for Your Needs 

There are many different types of car window tinting, and while they all might look the same, they work in different ways (some even do different things). A few of the most common include: 

• Dyed window tint
• Metalized window tint
• Hybrid window tint
• Crystalized window tint

You should have a general idea of what type of window tinting you want on your car before you schedule the application. But that doesn't mean you have to be an expert. Instead, come up with a list of needs/wants you want to get out of your window tint, such as: 

• Darkening the windows
• Blocking UV rays
• Reducing the heat 
• Protecting your skin
• Improving your car's appearance 
• Etc. 

Explain these things to the tinting installer. They'll be able to recommend the best type of tint (and the best brand) for your vehicle. 

How Dark Can You Go?

This depends on where you live. Every state has its own window tinting laws, so you'll need to research the regulations in your area to figure out the lowest VLT% (Visible Light Transmission) you can get.

Remember, the lower the VLT%, the darker the film. 

Again, you don't have to be an expert. Your tinting installer will ensure you don't go darker than the legal limit. If you request a lower VLT% than allowed in your state, your installer will let you know and suggest a different option. 

Here's what the window tinting laws look like in Idaho: 

• Front side windows: 35% VLT 
• Back side windows: 20% VLT
• Rear windows: 35% VLT 
• Windshield: you can only apply tinting to the top 6 inches of the window 

Don't try to push it and go darker than legally allowed. Otherwise, you may find yourself getting pulled over by the cops and paying a fine. 

How Much Does Car Window Tinting Typically Cost?

The exact cost of tinting your car's windows varies depending on a number of factors, such as where you live, the size of your vehicle, the type of window tint you choose, the installer, etc. 

However, you should expect to pay between $200 to $300 for the entire car. Larger vehicles or higher quality tinting can push the price up closer to $400 or $600, but the job shouldn't get more expensive than that. 

It's a good idea to put together a budget before talking to an installer. If the tint you want doesn't fit in your budget, it may be worth saving up for a few months instead of settling for something low-quality. 

Can You Install Window Tinting on Your Car Yourself?

If you have all the right tools, the necessary supplies, and the experience, you can install window tinting on your car by yourself. You can even find and buy window tinting kits that have everything you need to get the job done. 

But DIYing your way through this project isn't usually a good idea. 

While the application might seem easy, it can be tricky. Small mistakes can cause the film to bubble or ripple, which can obscure your vision and make driving unsafe. DIY tint also doesn't last as long as professional tinting, and if something goes wrong, you may have to remove it and start all over again. 

Hiring a professional will give you better results, and most of the time, it will help you save time and money as well. 

5 Reasons You Should Never Skip Car Window Tinting 

If you're trying to decide whether the benefits of tinting your car's windows are worth the cost, the short answer is yes. Window tint does more than just block the sun. Here's a closer look at some of the most important reasons to tint your windows.

Prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays can be dangerous. These rays are what burn your skin when you don't put on sunscreen, and they can lead to even more health complications. 

Window tint keeps these UV rays out of your car so you can drive without stressing about your skin. 

Window tint also creates an extra barrier between the inside of your car and the outside temperature. It bounces the sun's heat away from your car so it stays cool inside. 

This means you won't have to run the air conditioning system as often or as long, which can help you save on gas (and money!).

If the sun can burn your skin, imagine what it can do to the rest of your car, especially if you park it outside for longer periods of the day. Your interior upholstery can fade, peel, and get other types of damages. 

Installing window tint protects your investment, meaning it will last longer and look better. 

Window tint improves the security of your windows. If you get into an accident, the tint will help the windows hold together, which can keep you safe from shattered glass.

Tired of other drivers looking through your windows and staring at you every time you stop at a light? Window tint makes your windows darker and harder to see through. That means you can keep singing your favorite songs without having to worry about being judged by the driver next to you.

Installing Window Tint on Your Car Today

If your car doesn't already have tinted windows, you shouldn't push off the application any longer. It's not just about making your car look cool (though tinting does this, too). Tinting your windows will protect you and your car from harmful sun rays. 

Not sure who to call?

Don't hesitate to get in touch with our team at ShadowFilms Window Tinting today! We can help you pick and install the best car window tinting for your needs.