5 Tips for Successful Car Tinting

Tinted car windows reduce UV light exposure, which is better for your health and it protects your vehicle's interior. Before installing tints, know these tips to ensure success.

1. Check Your Local Rules

Every state has varying tint laws, with those in Victoria and Tasmania being the strictest. The allowed level of tinting is referred to as Visible Light Transference (VLT). Allowed VLT can also vary depending on which windows are being tinted. For example, rear windows are often allowed to have a darker tint compared to the front driver and passenger windows. Always check with local authorities before choosing your tint level. 

2. Learn About Tinting Options

Tint comes in a variety of colours. You can find tint in the standard shades of brown and grey, but there are also blue-tinged tints available. If your desire is to block UV light without darkening the windows, clear tints that reflect UV are another available option. Tints can be dyed in order to darken them, or they may contain metallic powders that both darken and reflect light. Your tinting service can help you choose the right type for your needs. 

3. Ask for Tint Samples

It's not uncommon to have concerns about visibility, especially if you are looking at darker tints. Your tinting shop should have some tinted glass samples to show you, which gives you an opportunity to check out the different tints in action. Looking at samples ensures you get exactly the tint product and darkness that will serve you best. 

4. Choose Professional Options

There are a variety of do-it-yourself tinting kits on the market. Although these look straightforward to apply, it's generally difficult to get good coverage without bubbles with these kits. Part of the issue is that it takes specific tools and skills to install tinting film smoothly and evenly. Further, the films in DIY kits are not always the same quality you will find at a professional tinting service. 

5. Follow Aftercare Instructions

With the right aftercare, your car's new tint should last for many years. Most important is to avoid all abrasive cleansers and sponges. Soft cloths and standard glass cleaners or water are all that should be used to clean a tinted window. Further, avoid any harsh conditions in the first week following tinting so it can cure properly— in other words, avoid car washes and don't park where the car is exposed to blowing debris or sand. 

Contact an automotive window tinting service if you need more information.