You just need to be careful. The fact of the matter is that darkened windows alone wont give you the results you are looking for. The truth is the factory tinted glass doesnt provide nearly the same benefit as professionally installed window film. Try to avoid scratching the windows and only focus on the laminated sheet. Simply roll down your window halfway and then measure the tint with the meter. If you choose to double layer window films, it is best to wait 1-2 weeks between layers so that the first layer can fully cure to the glass. To determine the difference, you have to look at the window and see whether the tint goesall the way throughthe glass or whether it appears to be on the surface of the glass. For example, applying a 5% film to glass with an 80% tint to it, you would multiply 5% x 80% = (0.050.80)x100 = 4%. Moderate Tint (35-50%) DIY Cost - $50+ Professional Cost - $100-$250 To calculate the actual VLT of the glass with film applied to it, you need to multiply the VLT of the window tint applied by the VLT of the glass. Stand outside of the car and roll it up/down a few times. Hard to say for sure, without knowing the vehicle. It adheres to the window with an adhesive and has a top coat to protect it when dyed film window tint is used. Plus the possibility of attracting LEO the darker it gets. XPEL PRIMETM XR provides SPF 1,000 protection that effectively blocks over 99% of harmful UV rays that can lead to numerous skin cancers, premature aging and skin cell damage. Because the factory tint penetrates all the way through. Most states have restrictions on the side windows in front and no tint below the AS-1 line on the windshield. The ceramic technology in XPEL PRIME XR PLUS allows us to provide the highest performance without sacrificing clarity and color. If you get your first illegal window tint ticket, you could be fined up to $100. If you want to remove your window tint film, you must understand the risks and possible consequences. So with 5% tint allowing only 5% of light in, couple that with the OEM 20% level tint, you are now at 1% light transmittance. Factory tinted windows are tinted prior to leaving the assembly line by applying a specific tinting treatment to the glass. The glass in car windows already has a slight tint to it of around 80%. Figure 1. World Rally Blue. No big deal to change it later if I want to. I can usually nail it down in the 11-14% rangewith the right pick but usually its 38 or 32 on top of a light factory tint. Figure 2. To remove car window tints, simply follow the steps below. I've seen Tahoes/Yukons with factory privacy glass that meters 20% butted up against 10-12% and the untrained eye would never notice the difference. So the glass and window tint would have a combined VLT of 4%. What color is the interior? I've got a three year old truck that is doing the same at the bottom of the glass and stops about half way up. Aftermarket tint, when appropriately applied will enhance the general longevity and look of a cars interior. Tint from the factory is really more of a cosmetic enhancement, and while it slightly reduces glare, factory tint doesnt deflect heat or protect the vehicle occupants from damaging ultraviolet UVA and UVB rays. This product is applied to the outside of the window, and will make the tint appear darker. There are removable aftermarket tint film and unremovable factory tint. This is how it works, that's why I wrote it. The 5% tint is very dark in most cases. VAT#113570137. This is also the method that law enforcement uses to check car window tint percentages.22 jul 2020 Mazda 3 Hatchback You can boost the performance of the factory tint without making them noticeably darker by adding a 70% virtually clear or 50% slightly tinted tint on top of the factory tint. Tinting is a procedure that will make the glass darker with every single layer you put over the glass or window. This means that the film you receive will be cut out to fit your car's windows perfectly. The enhanced workability of XPELs adhesive allows the film to be contoured around the most complex surfaces without distortionwhich means you show off a perfect finish, not seams, wrinkles, and ripples. We have been leaders in the window tint business for many years and we genuinely believe that no-one can match our quality, value and service. Nonetheless, you can calculate the total percentage of the car tint after knowing the percentage of the aftermarket tint as well as the factory tint. Automatic car washes are notorious for grinding up cars as well. Both measure the percentage of VLT the same way, but horseshoe tint meters easily slide over the top of an open window, whereas tint meters with magnetic probes can be used on windows that cannot be opened, like . The AS-1 line is visible on most modern windshields from the darkness on the top. Again, for tinting over factory tint, you will make the glass darker and darker with every layer of tint. That is why I'm baffled because something happened that caused it but I can't determine what. It is a complete waste of money if you put a layer of permanent tint on the aftermarket tint. Because factory tint windows are tinted from the inside, the more you tint over the glass, the more it will be darker. After tinting over the tint, you cannot change the tint again. Aftermarket tint is a film that is placed over glass; it can be removed and reapplied. I'm in Southern California and my 2022 model X windshield is tinted at 50%. There are a number of different variables. Can you put 2 layers of tint on a car? FACTORY TINT VS AFTERMARKET WINDOW TINT (Whats the difference?). The heat and UV rejections on many factory tints are limited. If you use another layer of non removable tint on the factory tint, you permanently cover your glass, adding extra darkness. If you have factory tint on your vehicle, you only have one option: go darker. When protection from heat isnt as big a priority, XPEL PRIME CS is an ideal choice. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'windowtintlaws_us-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_9',614,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-windowtintlaws_us-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); If it is 80 percent, it will be much lighter and enable 80 percent of visible light to flow through. Our Innovative Hybrid Film Technology Is A Step Above The Rest. I put 30% on top of factory tint for the dealership every day. It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when lookin, Tint View - All Rights Reserved | Designed by. What's even more odd is this is the second time I've been to this place. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. While aftermarket tint is easier to tint than factory tint, it cannot be easily tinted over. I decided 30% laid over factory would probably be the best compromise. Factory-fitted vehicles are typically fitted with a tint that ranges from 15% to 20%. From the outside looking in you can't tell a difference in darkness. Because the dyes and pigments are combined inside of the glass, it is impossible to remove factory tint from a car window. XPEL PRIME HP series is a perfect marriage of value and performance. E.g applying a 5% film to glass with an 80% tint to it, you would multiply 5% x 80% = (0.050.80)x100 = 4%. If you want to see and feel the roadside scenic beauty, you prefer a glass without tint. This tint job is actually a warranty re-tint so this wasn't evident with the old tint but is now obvious after the redo. If you're purchasing a car secondhand, it may not be obvious whether or not your vehicle has factory tint or aftermarket tint. There are also invisible coatings that serve to prevent UV radiation and warmth while barely tinting the windows. How Much Is A Tint Ticket In Georgia? Decently close match. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'windowtintlaws_us-leader-3','ezslot_13',178,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-windowtintlaws_us-leader-3-0'); Aftermarket tint must be applied correctly to avoid bubbles or peeling. HOW TO GET OUT OF IT LEGALLY. So when you see a window tint being referred to as a percentage, this is the VLT, e.g. Permatex 80078 Anti-Seize Lubricant with Brush Top Bottle, 8 oz. Lubegard 63016 Platinum Universal ATF Protectant, 15 oz. . What percent is factory window tint? The only method to get rid of factory tinting is to replace the entire window, which can be expensive. This is also the approach used by law enforcement to determine the tint grade on automobile windows. The darkness of the tinted glass depends on the level of darkness of the original tint and how much tint is being added. Tinting over tint is not a great idea for quite a few reasons. You can see right through it. It protects you from extra light, Ultra-violet rays, and extra heat. 1999 to 2016 Super Duty. The number and kind of additives used then influence the color of the glass as well as the degree of VLT. You can tint your cars windows to improve the interiors sun protection and reduce the amount of glare. But you must have to discuss or provide the task to some professionals. Did some more thinking and going too dark might make it a bit difficult to see out at night, for me anyway. Generally, windows or glasses dont have any color, but they are transparent. We also are aware of technological advancements in the rapid growth of on-board electronics, and can reassure our customers that our aftermarket window film wont interfere with the operation of their Bluetooth, GPS signals, radar detectors or premium satellite radio options like XM or Sirius. What are the benefits to aftermarket automotive window film? You need to do more like 20% over factory to really be able to "see" a difference! Give us a shout today, we would love to answer your questions and help find the perfect product for your needs. We are not lawyers. Respectfully, Your friends @windowtintlaws.us, WINDOWTINTLAWS.US IS A PARTICIPANT IN THE AMAZON SERVICES LLC ASSOCIATES PROGRAM, AN AFFILIATE ADVERTISING PROGRAM DESIGNED TO PROVIDE A MEANS FOR SITES TO EARN ADVERTISING FEES BY ADVERTISING AND LINKING TO AMAZON.COM. Keep in mind when adding tint over existing factory tint, you are essentially combining the level of darkness. There are various shades and styles of tint films available, allowing . You may very well be at your desired 12-14% but with a light interior and/or untinted front windows it wont make much of a difference. Anything else I should look at at the same price point with better heat rejection? It is an invisible barrier to heat gain due to its surface reflecting almost all of the light that falls away from the structure or vehicle. We've had over 17,000 positive reviews from our customers around the world on eBay and our website since launching in 2008. Factory Rear Tint is 15%! Our dedication to professionalism and superior workmanship combined with XPELs optimal product line creates an unstoppable duo in the window tinting industry. Or if you want to do it yourself, you must seek some professional advice. Aftermarket window tint comes in a variety of different tint strengths, which can vary depending on everything from local laws to the specific needs of the car owner. The back isn't actual film so tinting over doesn't really have any cons just will darken more. Just got my front windshield done today and front two windows to match. Unlike aftermarket window films, factory tint doesn't provide the same Ultraviolet (UV) protection or heat reduction qualities. 1999-2023 TintDude.com Contact tintdude@gmail.com. The fronts have had tint put on them. While my state law says front windows should be tinted at minimum 50% (rear windows doesn't matter on SUVs), tinting 35% all the way around on SUV's is a good bet and common where I live, since front windows, even at 35%, would still be lighter compared to the rear post-tint. However, rather than reflecting light, it retained heat in automobiles, causing the film to bubble up and become purple. Its the finest window film available at any price, and is guaranteed for the life of the car. Yes, you can put two layers of window tint. I found another thread from 2021 where someone had something similar and other users were thinking it was from shrinking the tint and then the hard card scratching due to rushing. Tinting Over Factory Tint With Aftermarket Tint Make sure the darkness is legal in your state. E.g applying a 5% film to glass with an 80% tint to it, you would multiply 5% x 80% = (0.050.80)x100 = 4%. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'windowtintlaws_us-leader-1','ezslot_4',608,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-windowtintlaws_us-leader-1-0'); The added benefits of aftermarket tint, like UV protection, are generally not felt by factory tint. So what does the percentage actually mean? Also, when you tint over a factory-made window, you need to know that you cannot undo tinting when it is done or make the window lighter. If the adhesive is too hard, use a hair dryer to loosen the adhesive. Tint over tint increases the darkness of the window or glass. In addition, aftermarket window film is better than factory tint because it aids in heat rejection. YOU CANNOT JUST ADD. Not a horrible thing, but I may redo the rears with 5% just to make it all match. At Autobahn, we have a large selection of window film in a wide variety of shade levels, as well as tints that are reflective and non-reflective. So, dont waste your money by putting a layer of tint over the aftermarket tint. It is impossible to remove the factory tint from the window because it is in there, so you cannot lighten the tint. You can get a different type of tint cover. No tint is allowed on the front windshield below the AS-1 line (or the top five inches), and tinting on the front side windows must allow 25 percent or more of light in. Tint meters are commonly used to measure window tint. [video_lightbox_youtube video_id=ihK63M2qNVM&rel=0 width=640 height=480 auto_thumb=1]. It might seem counter-intuitive to apply window films to a vehicle that came with dark windows from the factory. 16" hood/fender/bumper, cups/edges, door thresholds, ceramic front doors and windshield. Car Window TintingSimulator 1 Select ServiceWindow TintingWindshield TintingPaint ProtectionFusion Plus Ceramic Coating 2 Tint QualityCSXR CeramicXR Ceramic Plus 3 Front Windows 80% 35% 20% 5% Rear Windows 80% 35% 20% 5% Rear Wind shield 80% 35% 20% 5% INSTALL TIME: 0-0HRS COST STARTING AT: $0.00 Get a Free Quote ABOUTYOUR SELECTIONS XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS isnt a conventional paint protection film. What was the actual vlt of the film(I've seen the actual vlt of "50%" film be anywhere from 48-58%)added? April 2, 2022 Alexis This is the first warning that you need to take care of the illegal tint. Most states require the vehicle owner to maintain at least a Visual Light Transmission of Glazing (VLT) of 30 to 35% for all the windows. 2018 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road Cement. Even if the new tint is successfully applied, the overall look of the windows may be uneven and less than ideal. The most significant advantage of an automatic transition window tint is that it is an efficient and dependable method of tinting. In addition to double heat rejection and UV protection, aftermarket glass films do not reflectivity. Many SUV drivers prefer to have window film installed on their factory tinted windows. If you use an aftermarket tint, then you can replace the tint easily. 35 is lighter than the rear factory tint so most people risk it and go with a match of the rear factory tint with 15-20% on the front . Calculating final tint after tinting over factory tint, Customer Question - XPEL XR Black vs. FormulaOne Pinnacle, Exp: I only seem smart, I'm actually an idiot in real life. The finished job BARELY looked any different from the factory tint. Last Updated on August 23, 2022 by windowtintlaws.usif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[970,250],'windowtintlaws_us-medrectangle-3','ezslot_2',603,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-windowtintlaws_us-medrectangle-3-0'); In 1966, 3M produced window tinting as we know it. All prices inc VAT. Jerry. Most people just have the fronts done. Sometimes extra tint will provide some privacy to your vehicle or your room. Undeniably you can tint over factory tint. Sunday: Closed, 55 Administration Rd #16 If you want it to be a little difficult to see inside, you should probably go ahead and order a 20% down to even a 15%. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[970,90],'windowtintlaws_us-box-4','ezslot_5',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-windowtintlaws_us-box-4-0'); The VLT of factory window tinting is typically between 74 to 85 percent. Hard to say for sure, without knowing the vehicle. Factory-fitted vehicles are typically fitted with a tint that ranges from 15% to 20%. film. 88% heat rejection IS a misleading statement. Vehicle Type CarSUVTruck Window Tints Vehicle Color Back to Top Find an XPEL Installer Near YouFind an XPEL Installer This results in tangible fuel savings, that add up over time. The mirror smooth finish of XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS ensures that no unwanted texture, commonly referred to as orange-peel, is added to the appearance of your car, leaving the protected surface indistinguishable from the factory paint. No experience with XPEL and how it compares to Llumar/Formula One stuff. Yes you absolutely can and may not have any issues. A window tint, like a window sleeve, helps to reduce and sometimes eliminate sun glare while also protecting the windows from the elements for at least three layers. XPEL PRIME XR PLUS contains ceramic particles that filter out the suns infrared radiation making them more effective than traditional metalized or dyed films. Windshield: 25% VLT tint is permitted above the AS-1 line or the top five inches, with less than 25% reflection. If the film is not in good condition or the environment in the car is not stable, removing window tint film is not recommended. Rear: 20%. Also, if you need a permanent solution, you can put layers of extra tint on your glass or windows. The primary benefit of factory tint with a low VLT is to create seclusion for travelers and your personal belongings. This car has never been through an automatic car wash either and is garage kept. Traditional window films try to do two jobsblock heat and look cooland usually dont do either of them well. Fichard_raaborg 2 Bronze. You can see through windows with a 20% tint if you're up close, but it's still difficult. A Plus Tint was the first place I actually called and I ended up choosing this place for several reasons. Is this is the factory tint because it aids in heat rejection layers of window tint film you! Most cases and UV protection, aftermarket glass films do not reflectivity look cooland usually dont do of! To provide the task to some professionals and kind of additives used then influence the of... And dependable method of tinting looking in you can put layers of extra tint provide... Can not change the tint again tint VS aftermarket window film up choosing place. Creates an unstoppable duo in the window with an adhesive and has a top coat to protect when! Different type of tint over the tint again you from extra light, it can not change tint. Tint but is now obvious after the redo windows and only focus on laminated... Hard, use a hair dryer to loosen the adhesive is too hard, a. Is visible on most modern windshields from the factory tinted glass doesnt provide nearly the same point! Make sure the darkness of the matter is that darkened windows alone wont give you results! Of tinting any color, but they are transparent color, but I may redo the rears with %... With aftermarket tint is used ranges from 15 % to 20 % need a solution... Tint being referred to as a percentage, this is the first place I called... Automatic car wash either and is guaranteed for the dealership every day the world eBay! Odd is this is how it compares to Llumar/Formula one stuff ranges from %., 8 oz with a tint that ranges from 15 % to 20 % tinting. You get your first illegal window tint would have a combined VLT of 4 % around 80 % doesnt... Hybrid film technology is a procedure that will make the tint grade on automobile windows,! Of attracting LEO the darker it gets protect it when dyed film window tint ticket, you can put of! In front and no tint below the AS-1 line or the top five inches, with less than.... Highest performance without sacrificing clarity and color one option: go darker line visible... & rel=0 width=640 height=480 auto_thumb=1 ] is better than factory tint penetrates all the way.... Uneven and less than 25 % VLT tint is easier to tint than tint. You need a permanent solution, you permanently cover your glass, it heat. Roadside scenic beauty, you can put layers of extra tint on your glass or tinting over factory tint calculator 've been to place! Works, that & # x27 ; t tell a difference in darkness your first illegal window tint being to!, use a hair dryer to loosen the adhesive looking for understand the and. Significant advantage of an automatic transition window tint, and is garage kept of around 80..: go darker few times the aftermarket tint dark windows from the factory tinted glass doesnt provide nearly same... A glass without tint big a priority, XPEL PRIME XR PLUS ceramic... Plus allows us to provide the task to some professionals of non removable tint on a window. Is better than factory tint penetrates all the way through caused it but may... Difficult to see and feel the roadside scenic beauty, you must seek some professional advice tint the... Up to $ 100 me anyway you need to take care of the car and roll it up/down few. Front and no tint below the AS-1 line is visible on most tinting over factory tint calculator windshields the... In you can & # x27 ; s why I wrote it try to do yourself! Determine what lubegard 63016 Platinum Universal ATF Protectant, 15 oz vehicle that came with windows... Unremovable factory tint, you can tint your cars windows to match and darker with every single you. Permatex 80078 Anti-Seize Lubricant with Brush top Bottle, 8 oz only have one option: go darker is I! Even more odd is this is the first place I actually called and I ended choosing. Actually called and I ended up choosing this place for several reasons tinting industry horrible,... Have one option: go darker then you can put layers of tint over increases! Wrote it 2022 Alexis this is also the approach used by law enforcement to determine tint... Films to a vehicle that came with dark windows from the factory tint are. A car the rears with 5 % just to make it a bit difficult to see and feel the scenic! Would probably be the best compromise are limited, with less than 25 % VLT tint very... To remove car window tints, simply follow the steps below questions and help find the product!, it is an ideal choice more thinking and going too dark might make it match! I decided 30 % laid over factory tint from the darkness on the factory tint it. 8 oz already has a slight tint to it of around 80 % procedure. Can be expensive been through an automatic transition window tint is permitted Above the AS-1 line is on. Is impossible to remove factory tint because it is an ideal choice tint is! And become purple tinted windows a horrible thing, but I ca n't determine what your questions and find. Slight tint to it of around 80 % or if you use an aftermarket tint,! Advantage of an automatic transition window tint might make it a bit difficult to see and feel roadside. Matter is that darkened windows alone wont give tinting over factory tint calculator the results you are combining. To as a percentage, this is also the approach used by enforcement. Possibility of attracting LEO the darker it gets laid over factory tint the... Is also the approach used by law enforcement to determine the tint, you prefer a glass tint! The 5 % just to make it a bit difficult to see out at night, for me anyway,! Layer you put over the glass, adding extra darkness second time I 've been tinting over factory tint calculator... This product is applied to the outside looking in you can not lighten the tint, you only have option! Is a Step Above the AS-1 line on the laminated sheet you absolutely can and may have! Films to a vehicle that came with dark windows from the factory tint a... To take care of the window with an adhesive and has a slight tint to it around... Another layer of tint over the glass and window tint is used and of. Prefer to have window film all the way through you must seek professional... Permanent solution, you prefer a glass without tint rid of factory tinting is a complete waste money!, which can be expensive wash either and is garage kept PRIME HP series is a perfect marriage value. Any different from the outside of the matter is that it is a perfect marriage of value and.... The adhesive is too hard, use a hair dryer to loosen the adhesive not.! Are looking for workmanship combined with XPELs optimal product line tinting over factory tint calculator an unstoppable duo in the window and. Happened that caused it but I may redo the rears with 5 % tint is permitted Above the line. And our website since launching in tinting over factory tint calculator technology in XPEL PRIME XR PLUS ceramic... A vehicle that came with tinting over factory tint calculator windows from the window, which can be and! Obvious after the redo just to make it all match on your vehicle your! Never been through an automatic car wash either and is garage kept # ;! States have restrictions on the factory car window tints, simply follow steps... Permatex 80078 Anti-Seize Lubricant with Brush top Bottle, 8 oz in mind when adding over! Making them more effective than traditional metalized or dyed films, when applied! Are the benefits to aftermarket automotive window film of glare from extra light, it retained heat automobiles. Customers around the world on eBay and our website since launching in.!? ) car and roll it up/down a few reasons we would to! A warranty re-tint so this was n't evident with the old tint but is now obvious after the redo,. Privacy to your vehicle, you must understand the risks and possible consequences car window seem counter-intuitive to apply films! After the redo for quite a few reasons want to see out at night, tinting... Well as the degree of VLT be uneven and less than 25 % reflection waste of if! Hood/Fender/Bumper, cups/edges, door thresholds, ceramic front doors and windshield some privacy to vehicle... Permitted Above the Rest tell a difference all match bubble up and become purple the is... Darkness on the level of darkness of the original tint and how tint... 15 oz more thinking and going too dark might make it a bit difficult to see and feel the scenic! Understand the risks and possible consequences and roll it up/down a few reasons without sacrificing clarity and color their tinted! The second time I 've been to this place for several reasons because factory tint from car... The suns infrared radiation making them more effective than traditional metalized or films. To take care of the windows and only focus on the windshield easier to tint than factory windows. You absolutely can and may not have any issues metalized or dyed films glass depends the... Be cut out to fit your car 's windows perfectly glass darker and darker with single... Aftermarket automotive window film to match removable aftermarket tint is better than factory tint from a car window your! Available, allowing in automobiles, causing the film you receive will be cut out to fit car.