Car Window Tinting: What Are The Benefits for My Car?
When thinking about car window tinting, the rich and the famous hiding from the paparazzi might spring to mind.
And, yes, the aesthetic appeal of car window tinting is certainly one of the reasons why it’s popular in Hollywood. However, there are many other benefits of windscreen tinting for the Average Joe or Jane, from being more environmentally friendly to saving on gas and keeping you cool in Perth’s sweltering summers.
We explain what it entails and break down how it can benefit your daily commutes and your car in the long run.
What Does Car Window Tinting Entail?
Windscreen tinting refers to applying a semi-transparent sheet of film to the interior of a vehicle’s windows. Today, most cars have tinted windows, varying in shades, whereas this was not the case in the past.
How Does the Car Window Tinting Process Work?
Tinting professionals usually prepare the car’s windows with soap and water, removing any dirt with a sponge or cloth. Next, the car windows will be measured precisely and fitted onto a master roll of tinting film.
An important step is when professionals use a heat gun to heat-shrink the film. This will not harm the vehicle in any way but instead ensures smooth application and appearance. After that, they tailor the film to fit the shape of the window by cutting it, then remove and position it on a pane of glass known as the “peel board”. Here the edges are refined, and the sharp edges are rounded.
As soon as the film pieces have been correctly shaped, it’s time for the process of application. Soapy water is sprayed alongside the film itself to activate the adhesive before it’s pressed skilfully against the interior of the car window.
There will be a final inspection after all of this is done before leaving the adhesive to dry.
Pros and Cons of Window Tinting
The pros definitely outweigh the cons when it comes to window tinting. However, there are a couple of things to consider before you apply a windscreen tint.
Cons: Things to Consider Before Getting Your Car Windows Tinted
Before you jump at the chance of getting your car windows tinted, do research and consider the following.
Window Tinting and the Law
When it comes to adhering to the law, particularly in Australia, it’s essential to ensure you stay within the legal tint limit. Therefore, it’s vital that you first find out what your current car window tint percentage is to ensure you don’t go too dark and face some hefty fines.
Currently, Western Australian law allows for 35% tint on your windows at the front and 20% on the other windows.
Visibility
Similarly, you want to ensure that your car window tint won’t affect your visibility when driving.
DIY or Go Pro?
If you want to tint your car windows yourself, there are several risks, especially when ensuring you apply it to comply with local regulations. We always recommend that you consult car window tinting professionals to avoid any mishaps or unforeseen fines.
Pros: What are the Advantages of Window Tinting?
There are several benefits to window tinting, from protecting your windows to offering more privacy.
Protection from UV Rays
Window tinting protects from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which benefits your skin, eyes, and general health whilst driving.
Anti-Glare
Tinted windows lessen the glare of the sun and oncoming headlights, which enables the driver to see more clearly.
Interior Preservation
Because window tint blocks the sun’s UV rays, the interior of your vehicle will be less prone to fading, leaving your car looking brand new for much longer. This will also help with the resale value of your vehicle.
Safety and Security
The tint film, made of plastic, may act as a barrier, guarding the glass should it ever shatter. It’s, therefore, a lot more resilient when it comes to, for example, stones hitting your windscreen.
Privacy
Window tinting inevitably makes it harder for people to see into your vehicle, protecting your privacy as you drive. It also adds to an element of security as you and your belongings can remain more undetected.
Cooling Comfort
The action of blocking out the sun also leads to a cooler interior atmosphere in your car, making it more comfortable to spend time in, especially during the summer heat.
Cost-Effective
When you always have to keep your aircon on full blast, it can eat your gas. With window tint, your car will stay cooler for longer, helping you save on gas and, therefore, money in the long run.
Is Car Window Tinting a Good Idea?
When deciding whether you should get your car windows tinted, you first need to understand the differences between car window factory tint versus film tint.
Factory tint, for example, does not provide as many benefits as film tint. However, if you’re opting for the tint simply for aesthetic reasons, factory tint will suffice, but it’s important to note that you won’t get the same protection or cooling benefits from film tint.
If you want to reap all the benefits possible from getting your car windows tinted, you should only consider film tint. Just remember that factory tint often comes standard with most vehicles and is pre-installed by many car manufacturers. Therefore, always first check your current tint percentage as you might not even realise that you already have tint on your windows.
Should I Get My Car Windows Tinted?
The pros of getting your car windows tinted undoubtedly outweigh the cons. If you have the budget, the benefits of window tint will serve you well in the long run.
Although there are ways to do it yourself, it’s always better to consult a pro to ensure you meet legal requirements and that it’s professionally applied to serve you for years to come.
Call in the Pros to Get Your Car Windows Tinted
At Dean’s Autoglass, we’re experts in car window tinting, replacements, and repairs. Contact us today for all your windscreen needs in Perth.