Window tints don't just look cool, they also have many benefits for the driver. Read on to learn just a few of the benefits of automobile window tinting.
Did you know that up to
three-quarters of UVA radiation
from the sun can enter smooth, normal glass?
That's right!
Unfortunately, most vehicles in the US only provide UVA protection through the windshield. On average, these front "windows" block
96% of UVA rays. The rest of the windows, including those on the driver's side, provide as little as 44% of UVA blockage.
Automobile window tinting can protect you from such dangers.
Ready to learn more about how these car window treatments benefit you and your ride? Then let's get right into it!
1. Protection From the Damaging Effects of UVA Rays
There are actually three types of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC. However, only the UVA and UVB ones reach the earth, as the ozone absorbs all UVC rays. The UVC rays that exist here on earth come from welding torches, mercury lamps, and old tanning beds.
UVA rays are the most abundant in sunlight -- up to
500 times more
than UVB. UVA rays also have "longer" waves than UVB, which is why they penetrate the skin deeper than UVB. These rays are long enough that they can reach the second layer of the skin.
While UVA rays have the lowest energy levels, they still
cause indirect DNA damage. They damage the melanocyte cells and cause mutations in these cells' DNA. Over time, these changes can result in the development of melanoma skin cancer.
In the US, more than one million people have melanoma. This 2020, experts estimate that there will be
100,350 new cases
of this cancer.
Aside from melanoma, UVA rays also speed up the aging process of the skin cells. This then causes the premature formation of aged skin, such as wrinkles and fine lines.
The good news is, high-quality
car window tinting
provides up to 99% UVA and UVB protection. Consider installing these films on all your car windows, and not just on the driver's side. This way, you can protect yourself and your passengers from such damaging light.
2. Better Protection Against the Sun's Cancer-Causing UVB Rays
Since most side windows don't block all UV rays, drivers in the US get
five times more UV
on their left arm. Being a left-sided driver also means exposing the left side of the face to 20 times more UV.
This is why untreated car windows can still give you unwanted suntan. In fact, give these rays enough time, and they can cause sunburns.
UVB rays are the culprit behind this darkening and burning of the skin. They may have shorter waves than UVA, but they have higher energy levels. This is how they cause direct damage to the skin's topmost layers as well as the skin cells' DNA.
Keep in mind that UVA rays tan, while UVB rays burn. The latter causes more immediate effects like skin redness, pain, swelling, and erythema. In addition, sunburns are among the top risk factors for different types of skin cancers.
Granted, most types of glass can block most UVB rays. Still, that means they don't provide complete protection against these rays.
Window tinting for cars can help fill some of that gap. After all, top-of-the-line window films protect you from 99% of UV rays. Just don't forget to apply sunscreen too, so you can further boost your protection against the sun.
3. Prolongs the Life Your Car's Interiors and Furnishings
UV radiation accounts for up to
40% of fading damage
on fabrics and carpets. The sun’s heat and UV rays can also cause discoloration and warping on materials like plastic and wood.
Sunlight exposure can also cause fading in leather upholstery in just
four to six months. The radiation and heat can dry out the leather, resulting in ugly cracks.
Tinted car windows can protect your ride's interiors from such damages. With these window treatments, you can keep the inside of your car looking good for as long as possible.
4. Better-Performing and Longer-Lasting HVAC System
Tinting for car windows, like
residential window films, also helps block the sun's heat. At the same time, they help trap cooled or heated air inside your ride. As a result, you get to enjoy the most out of your car's HVAC unit.
This also means that your HVAC system won't have to work harder to keep your car's interior cool or warm enough. This reduces stress on the HVAC system, which then helps prolong its service life.
5. Reduces Your Risk of Glare-Related Problems
Bright sunlight can raise a motorist's odds of getting into a life-threatening crash
by 16%. That may be far lower than driving drunk, but that's still a huge risk.
That's because intense light can cause discomfort to the eyes and even affect the way it sees things. This occurrence is what we call "glare". Glare can be distracting, discomforting, disabling, or blinding.
Either way, all forms of glare can put you at risk of getting into car accidents.
This is another reason to get car window tinting, which can reduce glare. It mellows down the intensity of light, be it from the sun or man-made sources.
Make Your Drives Safer and More Enjoyable with Automobile Window Tinting
There you have it, your ultimate guide on the benefits of automobile window tinting. From UV protection to reduced glare, you can expect all these from quality car window films. To top it off, these films also help strengthen the glass of your car windows.
All these make tinted car windows a great health and safety investment.
Ready to upgrade your car windows for smoother, safer, and more enjoyable drives? Then please don't hesitate to get in touch with
Applied Film Technology
in
Virginia Beach now! We'll be more than happy to answer all your window tinting-related inquiries.