Posted By Vinyl Frog On September 22, 2022
Window Tint Percentages
Getting the windows of your vehicle tinted? In order to get the best deal, it is imperative to know about the various percentages of tints you can opt for. Here is a detailed lowdown on different window tint percentages.
Selecting the right window tint percentage can be stressful if you're not a vehicle enthusiast. Which one should I choose: a dark tint or classic charcoal? What tone of gray should I choose? What should be the ideal VLT percentage? These are some very common questions that one may ask before spending the hard earned cash. Armed with the right knowledge you can easily make an informed decision.
The various percentages of car window tints enable owners to choose the ideal appearance for their vehicles. Window tinting, however, does much more than just enhance your car's design. Let’s have an in-depth look at the various car window tinting percentages and how they work!
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What Is A Window Tint Percentage?
Window tint percentage refers to the amount of visible light that can pass through a window after it has been tinted. The number refers to visual light transmission (VLT). It indicates the darkness or lightness of the tint. Therefore, if you get a 25% tint, only 25% of visible light will pass through the window.
Window Tint Percentages are often expressed as a range, such as 5%, 20%, 35%, 50%, and 70%. The lower the percentage, the darker the tint. For example, a window with a tint percentage of 5% is very dark and allows only 5% of visible light to pass through, while a window with a tint percentage of 70% is much lighter and allows 70% of visible light to pass through.
Things You Should Know Before Getting Your Windows Tinted?
When deciding whether to tint your windows or not, consider the following:
- In most countries, window tint percentages are regulated by law, and the acceptable limits vary depending on the jurisdiction. The regulations usually specify the maximum allowable tint percentage for different windows of a vehicle, such as the front windshield, front side windows, rear side windows, and rear windshield. It's important to comply with local laws and regulations when considering window tinting, as exceeding the allowed percentage can result in penalties or fines.
- In most states, up to 50% VLT is allowed for the driver’s and passenger’s front windows. For the rest, 35% VLT is the most common limit. For the type of tint percentage you want, you can see the law of the particular state you live in and opt accordingly.
- One of the main factors contributing to traffic accidents is distracted driving. When we talk of distraction, using a cell phone while driving may come to mind, but according to officials, tinted windows are also a major cause of accidents as darker tints can dramatically reduce your peripheral vision.
- Excessive window tinting, especially on the front windshield or front side windows, can reduce visibility, particularly at night or in low-light conditions. This may hinder the driver's ability to see pedestrians, other vehicles, or road hazards, increasing the risk of accidents.
- To strike a balance between the benefits of window tinting and safety concerns, it's advisable to consult local laws, consider the specific visibility requirements for your driving conditions, and choose a tint percentage that complies with regulations while still maintaining adequate visibility. Additionally, professional installation by a reputable and experienced installer can help ensure proper application and adherence to safety guidelines.
Types Of Window Tints
There are certain benefits of window tinting as well. It shields the vehicle's passengers from the sun's damaging UV rays in addition to providing privacy and reducing glare from sunlight or headlights. Darkened windows also give your car a sleek appearance, showcasing your approach.
Different Window Tint Percentages
There are different window tint percentages available on the market that refer to their VLT. These affect the glare, visibility, heat and the privacy of the passengers. Let’s have a detailed description of each.
80% WINDOW TINT OR MORE
85% window tint is a popular option. Window tints that are 85% or below block out UV rays, making them excellent for people who have sun-related health conditions. 80% tint is such a delicate color, people who don't want to go all out on a dark tint frequently choose it. However, since you receive so little protection with this, it is preferable to forgo a tint if you want to use this high of a percentage.
70% Window Tint
This window tint permits a 70% transmission of visible light, implying that only 30% of it is blocked from entering the car when exposed to sunlight or other bright lights in the vicinity. It does not darken the interior significantly but instead creates a smoked effect. Despite allowing a substantial amount of light, this tint percentage effectively safeguards the interior against UV ray-induced damage.
70 Percent Window Tint
70% window tint is opaque enough to keep the harsh sunlight away and still give you a clear view of the world outside. You can have your privacy intact and keep the interior of your vehicle cool enough throughout. This also reduces the load of your air conditioner giving you good fuel mileage.
50% Window Tint
A 50 percent window tint allows approximately 50% of visible light to pass through the window, while the remaining 50% is blocked. This level of tinting provides moderate light transmission, striking a balance between privacy, glare reduction, and visibility. It offers a noticeable tinted appearance while still allowing a significant amount of light to enter the vehicle.
50 Percent Window Tint
This tint percentage is considered to be highly effective against UV rays and great for temperature control. It blocks up to half the light, reducing discomfort caused by reflection. It is allowed in most states however, it is recommended to check the local law before applying it.
35% Window Tint
This is also considered to be an ideal tint percentage for the windows of your vehicle. It indicates that 35 percent of visible light can pass through the vehicle's windows, while the remaining 65 percent is blocked. This level of tinting offers a moderate level of darkness, providing increased privacy and glare reduction compared to lighter tints. It still allows a significant amount of light into the vehicle, maintaining good visibility during the day and moderate visibility at night.
35 Percent Window Tint
A 35% tint does not allow the harsh, hot rays of the sun to penetrate hence the interior stays comparatively cooler leading to fuel efficiency. At night, it is easy to see through this tint. It does not obstruct the view. It is also legal in most states. To be on the safe side, do not forget to check the regulations in your state regarding window tinting.
25% Window Tint
A 25 percent window tint means that roughly 25% of visible light can pass through the window, while the remaining 75 percent is blocked. This level of tinting provides a noticeably darker appearance and offers increased privacy, glare reduction, and heat rejection compared to lighter tints.
25 Percent Window Tint
While it still allows some light into the vehicle, visibility may be reduced, especially at night or in low-light conditions. While the tint allows 25 percent of light to pass through during the day, it becomes more challenging to see through the tinted windows at night. The level of visibility will depend on various factors, including the ambient lighting outside, the interior lighting of your vehicle, and the tint quality itself.
It's crucial to verify the applicable laws and regulations in your area to ensure that this tint percentage complies with the permissible limits for your specific windows.
20% Window Tint
This is quite a dark window tint percentage. It implies that around 20 percent of visible light is permitted to pass through the window, while approximately 80 percent is blocked. This level of tinting creates a moderately dark appearance, providing increased privacy, glare reduction, and heat rejection compared to lighter tints. It significantly limits the amount of visible light entering the vehicle, which can affect visibility, particularly at night or when there is low light during the day.
20 Percent Window Tint
20 percent window tint is not allowed in most states, especially on the front side windows, to the left and right of the driver. It is essential to check the legal requirements and regulations in your jurisdiction to ensure that this tint percentage complies with the permissible limits for your specific windows.
15% Window Tint
This is a very dark tint percentage. It means that approximately 15 percent of visible light is allowed to pass through the window, while approximately 85 percent is blocked. It provides a high level of privacy, making it difficult for people outside the vehicle to see inside. It also effectively reduces glare from sunlight and headlights, which can reduce eye strain.
15 Percent Window Tint
Before applying this tint percentage, you have to check the laws and regulations in your jurisdiction. Some areas have specific restrictions on how dark the tint can be, especially for certain windows like the front windshield and front side windows. Ensure that a 15 percent tint adheres to the legal requirements.
10% Window Tint
10 percentage tint offers quite a high level of darkness. It means approximately 10 percent of visible light can pass through the window, while roughly 90 percent is blocked. It provides a high level of privacy, as it significantly restricts the visibility into the vehicle from the outside. It effectively reduces glare from sunlight and headlights, improving visibility and reducing eye strain. This can be particularly beneficial if you frequently drive in bright or sunny conditions.
10 Percent Window Tint
A downside is that it can negatively impact visibility, especially in low-light or nighttime situations. Ensure that you are comfortable with the potential decrease in visibility before choosing this tint level. Also verify the laws and regulations in your jurisdiction regarding window tint percentages.
5% Window TInt
This is often known as limo tint. It allows only 5% of visible light through the window while blocking 95% of it. It is regarded as the market's most high-tech window tint. The interior of the car is barely visible from the outside. This is frequently used in limos, which is where the name originates.
5 Percent Window Tint
Limo tint provides the highest level of privacy. Its dark nature effectively reduces glare from sunlight and headlights. It also has excellent heat-rejecting properties, helping to keep the interior of the vehicle cooler and improving overall comfort. It provides strong protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays as well.
This 5 percentage tint has a sleek and stylish appearance that enhances the overall look of the vehicle, making it more sophisticated and luxurious. It's important to note that several state laws forbid manufacturers and even drivers from selling and installing such window tints.
0% Window TInt
0 percent tint means complete blackout. Light is not able to pass through this tint percentage. This tint blocks 100 percent of visible light. No one can look inside the vehicle. It provides significant heat and UV protection and helps keep the interior cooler during hot summer days.
0 Percent Window Tint
It blocks harmful UV rays, which can cause damage to your skin and interior surfaces. It also effectively reduces glare from the sun and other bright sources, improving comfort while driving. Despite all these advantages, this is not an ideal tint to install on your vehicle’s windows.
It considerably reduces the visibility of the driver and impairs the ability to see the road and potential hazards. 0 percent tint might not be allowed in many states hence it's crucial to adhere to local tinting regulations and consider tint options that strike a balance between privacy and visibility.
Identifying The Ideal Window Tint Percentage For Your Vehicle
When it comes to ideal window tint percentage, the finest is the one that doesn't obstruct your vision while still offering sufficient UV protection. The majority of states permit up to 50% VLT for the front windows of the driver and passenger. The most typical limit is 35 Percent VLT for the back window, side windows, and rear passenger windows. This is the most commonly used percentage. It strikes the ideal balance between visibility, privacy, and protection. Depending on the specified window tint regulations of the state where you live, you can even go darker.
Calculating The Percentage Of Tint
It is simple to select the appropriate tint if the windows of your car don't have any tint at all. You will need to choose carefully if your windows already have a tint.
DOCTORS NOTE FOR WINDOW TINT
You multiply the factory tint percentage by that of the film to get the outcome. For instance, if you add a 50% film to a window that is already 60% tinted from the manufacturer, you must multiply the two figures together to determine the outcome. For instance, 60% x 50% = 30% tint. Visit a professional if you don't know what percentage of tint your windows currently have. They will evaluate how dark your windows are and assist you in selecting the appropriate tint to achieve your goals.
Different Colors Of Window Tints
Window tints are available in different shades so you can choose the one you like most. These include black, blue, bronze, charcoal, gold and gray. The most popular and commonly chosen color is black as it is the most effective against UV rays and gives the passenger complete privacy. Blue tint also provides extra protection against the harmful rays of the sun. Those who want their vehicle to stunningly stand out go for the gold tint. Gray and charcoal add a classic touch.
Best Car Window Tint - Buying Guide 2024
Having said that, while opting for a tint color make sure that it is allowed in your state. Check the local laws and if you frequently resort to interstate travel by road, make sure that the tint shade is accepted in the visited state as well before taking any decision.
Important Terms For Window Tinting
- Visible light transmission (VLT) % displays tint darkness.
- A shade band is a rectangular piece of window tint film that extends downward from the top of the windshield.
- The windshield has a marking around the higher corners left by the glass maker called the AS1 line.
- Tint reflection describes the metallic or reflecting quality of the window tint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Words
After reading a thorough explanation of the various window tint percentages, you should check your state's rules regarding window tinting before adding tint to your windows. Think about how having darker tinting will enhance the heat, visibility, and appearance of your car.
If you have reached the final decision, go for a high quality tint. Settling for less will only mar the look of your vehicle and will not be beneficial in the long run. When in doubt, leave the calculations to the experts and let them discover the window tint you desire for your car. For excellent window tints, both in durability and performance, visit the Vinyl Frog website!
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