Home design is significantly affected by its windows. Either it is about the style, color, size or location, your decision matters. On the other hand, when it comes to your vehicles you have got little choice about its size and shape.
One thing is common about all windows and it is the possibility of getting them a tint. It can be a way of making your property unique. This is not the only thing window tinting offers. There are many other reasons that owners are using window tints. In the automobile industry, it is one of the most popular after-market products.
Let us dive into copious details about window tinting. This is going to help you a lot before your next purchase or service. Window tinting is best left to the professionals but it does not mean that you cannot do it on your own. There are kits available in the market where you can request them to be cut as per your requirements or cut it yourself.
History Of Window Tinting
It is no secret that a window tint is a form of thin laminate installed on the window glass. It has evolved with the passage of time but it obviously started at some point.
The history of window tint goes back to the start of World War II. EZ Eye Factory Tint was known for its products at that time. It was not that sophisticated as it is now but it gave the idea of protecting windows. Commoners used to spray the windows with dark colors to reduce the light but it did not function well enough. What we know of tint as today was made in 1966 for the first time.
In 1991 an associated named as The International Window Film Association was found to provide unbranded information about the products and its types.
Is Window Tint And Window Film The Same Thing?
Technically speaking, window tint and window film are different things. Tints are pigments which are applied in the factory to give color to the glass. Tinted glass is mostly used in commercial buildings.
Not all the windows are colored when they were formed. Now comes the role of window film. The film is a layer which can be made up of different synthetic materials. It can be tinted or clear.
Generally, both these terms are used for installing clear or colored layers over the residential or automobile windows. I have used both the terms interchangeably in the above paragraphs and there is a logical reason for it. Window films are tinted if they are intended to provide privacy along with other protections.
Types Of Window Tints/Films
You must be aware of all options before you purchase a window tint. It depends on your budget, usage, and purpose of installation.
- Dyed Window Tints
Window tints started as dyed tints. It is one of the most affordable options. As it is dyed, it not clear and provides mild protection against UV rays of the sun.
The uppermost layer is made up of polyester and there is a dye between this and the adhesive layer. It is most suitable if you want completely dark windows for your car. It appears opaque from the outside. It blocks sun glare and does not interfere with mobile or radio signals. Another advantage is that it reduces fading of the vehicle interior.
Dyed window tints fade away with time and need to be replaced frequently. So, it costs you more in the longer run.
- Metal Tints
Metalized tint film is thicker than the dyed tint. As the name suggests metal particles are added between layers of film. This metal layer darkens the glass and reflects back heat waves. It provides UV protection and a top coat prevents it from scratching. Metal tints are durable as compared to dyed ones and appear as shiny surface from the outside.
The most disliked thing about metal tints is that it is known to interfere with your electronic devices. It can interrupt your cell phone signals, GPS, mobile data and radio signals. For those of you who rely on GPS for driving, avoid metal tints.
- Carbon Film
Carbon tint adds a sleek look to your vehicle as it is the darkest tint available. The dark matter finish is a popular choice among car owners.
Other than the authentic black appearance, it does not fade out with the passage of time. It significantly reduces heat and glare other than protecting your cars upholstery. It is rarely used in residential windows.
The carbon film is undoubtedly one of the most expensive window tints. Well, there is a reason you only see black windows on luxury cars.
- Nano-Ceramic Window Film
The latest technology about window tints is using nanoparticles of ceramic as a layer. It absorbs nearly twice as much heat as the other window tints. It is highly shatter-proof. You are less likely to get hurt in an unfortunate accident if your car windows have ceramic window films.
It is transparent so it does not impede your ability to see through. It does not interfere with your electronic devices. Nao-ceramic window film doesn’t fade away.
You have to spend a lot of money to get these from auto window tinting service but most likely, it is an investment for the lifetime.
Despite its amazing features, it is not chosen by the users who want more privacy in their vehicle.
- Multi-Layer Anti-Graffiti Film
For a commercial building, graffiti is a highly unlikeable thing. It is often debated to be art or vandalism but one needs to protect their shops and stores from graffiti. Multi-layer graffiti film is amazing as it protects your window panes from graffiti damages. It shields the underlying glass.
Simple household cleaners can be used to remove the paint from its surface and you will get your windows fresh and new again. Other than keeping your property spotless, it provides 99% UV protection.
