Tinting Windows
Tinted windows in cars have become increasingly fashionable and affordable. From total ‘blackout’ tints to subtly contrasting ‘two-tone’ finishes, tinted glazing can have a breathtaking effect. The most popular after-market method is the use of tint film, which is applied to the inside of the existing glass. Here we discuss the advantages, the cost, and just as importantly, the law!
Aside from the aesthetic value of tinted windows, there are other less obvious benefits. For starters, prying eyes will not be able to see into your car quite so casually. This is particularly comforting for those with valuable AV equipment on board as the tint can act as a theft deterrent.
Window tints can also reduce the amount of harmful UV entering your car by almost 100%, and high end tints can reduce the amount of heat incress by around 60%, meaning you can keep the air conditioner on a lower, more economical setting during summer months. In addition, less sunlight means less damage to your upholstery and interior plastics.Tint film also adds strength to the glazing. If a treated window is shattered, the film will hold the glass together and prevent sharp pieces from injuring the car’s occupants.
Low-end film is available in most car accessory stores for around £15 a roll, graded by shade level and colour. The product is applied to the glass using soapy water and a heat gun (hairdryers not recommended!). This ‘DIY’ approach is tempting but often leads to disastrous results, with creases and bubbles appearing across the film and giving an ugly finish to the glazing. The reason for this is simple: almost without exception, car glass is curved. In fact a fairly common sight is that of a modified hatchback with tinted side windows, but no tint to the curvy rear windscreen!
Your safest bet for a stunning finish is to take your car to a professional. Most of these use higher quality films, which will be installed by a qualified, experienced tinter. On average, prices range from £250 to £450 for a full tint, depending on the car and number of windows to be treated. Most professionals guarantee no creases or bubbles, but do be sure to check!If you’d prefer to do the job yourself, please keep in mind that tinted windows are subject to strict VOSA regulations. While there are no legal limits to tints on rear windows (including rear door windows), the front side windows on any vehicle must allow around 75% of outside light to pass through. Traffic Police are often equipped with light metering units, which give accurate readings of tint levels. If the tints are unlawful, you are likely to be advised to remove them. Failure to do so can lead to points on your licence and a fine of up to £2,000.
You can avoid this by ‘graduating’ the tint along the car, with a light (legal!) shade in the front windows, mid shade on the rear door glasses and quarters, then ‘limo black’ on the rear windscreen for a striking, classy and 100% legal tint job!