How to Choose the Right Tint Shade for Your Vehicle's Windows

Are you planning to have your car's windows tinted soon? Click here to find out how to choose the right tint shade for your vehicle's windows.

In two short years, the automobile window tinting industry will hit a net worth of $4.5 billion. So if you didn't think window tinting was popular, think again! 

The real question is, why is it that popular and how can it benefit your vehicle and driving experience? Whether it's for privacy reasons, heat, or glare reduction, each driver has their own reasoning behind their chosen tint shade. 



Wondering how to choose the right shade for your car? This is the blog for you. 

Understanding Tint Shade Percentages

First things first, it's important to understand that there are several options to choose from when tinting car windows. So much so that the choices range from 5-90 percent in window tinting varieties. 

When choosing a window tint, you're essentially choosing a VLT -- a visible light transfer. The VLT percentage you choose determines how much light filters into your car. 

The lower the percentage, the darker the tint. Let's take a look at the most popular tint shades: 

• 50 percent tint: this option blocks out 50 percent of the sun's rays from your car's interior, so it's great for UV protection. It's also the national average for allowable tint percentages 
• 35 percent tint: this option allows for a little more darkness, increased UV protection, and offers a sleek look 
• 20 percent tint: known as the ''factory tint'', this option is common among newly manufactured vehicles. It offers a good amount of block out, without complete darkness
• 5 percent tint: also referred to as the limousine tint, it offers an almost blacked-out look, allowing for very limited amounts of light to enter your vehicle. 

Keep in mind that each state has legal tint percentages that you're limited to. In many states, for example, a 5 percent tint option is illegal. So, do your homework on what your state allows before making your choice. 

Here's what to consider when choosing between the above tint shades: 

1. Why Are Tinted Windows Important to You?

A good place to start is to consider why you want tinted windows. Your reasoning will ultimately help you choose the best tint percentage for your needs. 

For example, are you looking to increase your privacy? Do you have very sensitive eyes and need to reduce the amount of glare while driving? Or, do you just want to protect yourself from harmful UV rays? 

Each vehicle owner has their own personal reasons for tinting their windows. Whatever yours is, make sure you choose a window tint true to your needs, and no one else's. 

If you live in a region where crime is on the rise, a darker film can offer more protection and reduce the risk of break-ins. If you live in a very warm climate and want UV protection, a translucent film could work well, without having dark windows. 

Some people want the effect of window tinting, without the darkness. Speak to a professional about your options and how they can achieve this for you. 

2. The Overall Aesthetic of Your Car 

Tinting your car windows will change the overall look and feel of your car. Unless, of course, you choose a high percentage film or a translucent option. 

So, before making your choice, consider how the film percentage might change the look of your vehicle and whether you're happy with that. It's not just about the outside of your car, either. Bear in mind that the interior will look and feel different, too. 

Make your decision based on what will complement your car the most. If you want something more subtle, choose your percentage with caution, i.e. a higher percentage film. 

3. Always Opt for High-Quality Film 

There are plenty of window tinting ''professionals'' out there offering great deals, but not all of them are worth your time or money. Remember, if a window tinting deal seems too good to be true, it generally is. 

It doesn't matter what percentage of film you choose, it must always be of the highest quality. Don't ever feel tempted to buy window tinting film online and attempt to DIY the job yourself. 

The odds are that down the line the film will begin to peel off, and you'll have to take your car to a professional anyway. Most online retailers offer window tinting films with a short lifespan, meaning you'll have to replace them more often, which only equates to more money in the long run. 

Always opt for professional-grade film, installed by an experienced professional.

4. Draw Inspiration from Other Vehicles 

Not sure what type of percentage to go for? Take a look around you at other vehicles on the road, specifically for the same type of vehicle you drive. 

Take note of what these vehicles look like with window tinting and whether you'd like the same look for your car. 

If you're still at a loss, ask a window tinting professional to show you a few in-person examples of different window tints and films. Seeing a window tint in person can really help you get a feel for the aesthetic and make your final decision.

5. Never Skimp on Professional Window Tinting 

We've said it once, and will say it again, don't attempt to DIY your window tinting. It might seem simple enough -- you can buy window tint online and there are a plethora of YouTube videos at your disposal. 

But at the end of the day, it's just not worth it. Installing a professional-grade window tint takes years of expertise, experience, and the right set of tools. 

Professionals know how to install window tint so that it never bubbles, peels, or fades over time. They also offer a warranty for the window tint and their workmanship. This means you can have your window tint replaced for free if anything goes awry. 

Not only this, but a professional installer will ensure your window tint percentage falls within legal state requirements. 

Thinking of Tinting Your Windows? 

The tint shade you choose determines a range of things about your vehicle -- its aesthetic, safety, privacy, and driving comfort. It's an important decision that needs a good amount of consideration. 

If you're considering vehicle window tinting, you're in the best place! Applied Film Technology has you covered, whether it's professional window tinting for your car, home, or commercial building. 

Get in touch to learn more about how Applied Film Technology can help you.