When it comes to finding the right window tints for your vehicle, you need to be aware of the basic tinting terms and lingo. In most cases, vehicle owners tend to step inside an auto tint shop without having any idea of the basic terms and end up being scammed by paying a higher price for a low-quality film. So, we will go over the basic car window tinting terms and lingo so that you know how to ask the right questions.

What Is A Privacy Glass?

There is a common misconception and confusion amongst people about privacy glasses and tints. Most people assume both are the same, which is not the case. While window tints are simply films that are installed on glass windows, privacy glass is manufactured using dyes and does not come with films installed. In other words, privacy glass windows are already colored and you cannot make them transparent.

Privacy glass comes from the factor and is installed on several vehicles depending on the needs and preferences of the customers. The best thing about privacy glass is that since it comes manufactured from the facility, it lasts a lifetime if maintained properly.

However, a downside to this is that privacy glass if purchased aftermarket is going to be a lot more expensive than window tints. Plus, privacy glass also does a good job of protecting against UV rays and keeping the interior of the vehicle safe from damage.

What Is A Dyed Window Tint?

Dyed window tints have been the most popular for years as their invention marked the beginning of window tints. Today, these tints are the cheapest option available in the market when it comes to types but continue to be a budget-friendly option for those who cannot afford expensive window tints like ceramic tints.

These tints as the term suggests are made using a dye. The downside is that the dye does not hold on for long and the tints will eventually fade. So, you are going to need a replacement soon. Plus, dyed window tints do not do a great job protecting the skin and the interior of the vehicle against harmful UV rays.

Therefore, the cost-friendly aspect might be tempting but will not be long-lasting. So, if you wish to opt for dyed window tints, make sure you think it through.

Metallized Window Tint

Following dyed window tints, you have metalized window tints that are manufactured using microscopic particles of metal. These window tints tend to be slightly pricier than dyed window tints but come with several downsides as well. Considering these films contain metallic particles, your vehicle’s radio, and your cellphone will face complications as these particles interfere with the signals.

On the other hand, the advantage of having a metalized window tint is that it makes breaking in inside the vehicle slightly difficult. So, if you live in an area that is prone to thefts or prying eyes, you can opt for metalized window tints but be careful at the same time.

What Is Ceramic Window Tint?

Ceramic window tints are the most popular type nowadays. These tints offer several benefits with close to zero downsides. Ceramic window tints are made using ceramic and polymer properties that not only protect your skin and the interior of the vehicle against harmful UV rays but also are long-lasting.

However, the catch is that ceramic window tints are the most expensive tints of all the types. The reason is that installing ceramic window tints requires a bit of time and the use of special skills and tools. It’s not everyone’s job to install ceramic window tints.

Furthermore, you should always find a trusted seller to purchase and install the ceramic window films. This is because certified installers and retailers will offer a guarantee for their services in case something goes wrong in the future.

Ceramic tints should not be confused with ceramic coating that is applied on the exterior of a car like paint protection film Springfield to protect the paint from damages and scratches.

How Car Windows Tints Are Rated?

When it is time for you to purchase a new vehicle, the salesman will most probably use some terms that will confuse you at first. But you should not worry. These terms are used to describe the features or attributes of the film.

To begin with, VLT or Visible Light Transmission is the percentage of light that can go through the glass. If the VLT percentage is low, it means a lower amount of light can pass through it. This means that the darker the tint, the lower the VLT value.

Next, VLR or Visible Light Reflectance is the light that is reflected by a window glass or a protective film. The higher the VLR number, the more the light is reflected. This is important because it shows how much glare a window produces helping in glare reduction, which is critical for night time driving.

However, if you opt for a high-quality window, you get to increase the VLR value and reduce the glare at the same time. The next term you need to be familiar with is sputtering, which is the process of vapor deposition helping metallic particles such as copper, silver, and chromium bond onto the window film.

Moving on, IR means Infrared Radiation. This radiation is something we cannot see but feel. When a window tint is termed to be Infrared Radiation Resistant, it means it has specifically been designed to fight against radiation and keep the vehicle and the passengers protected.

In addition to that, constant or regular exposure to radiation can cause severe health concerns. You can develop chronic or permanent skin conditions. This is why you also need a film that absorbs heat or light as well.

Films with higher absorbent quality tend to produce less glare, which eventually helps improve visibility.

How Are Window Tints Installed?

As mentioned earlier, installing window tints requires time, patience, and skill. The installation process includes multiple stages. In the start, the vehicle is thoroughly washed and cleaned to ensure there are no dirt, dust, or debris particles on the windows.

Next, the expert takes measurements of the windows and cuts the film accordingly. Then, a liquid solution is sprayed onto the film as well as the windows and applied. The film is properly set and the expert cuts the corners for a clean finish.

After installing the film, the installer leaves the vehicle in a safe space for the tints to cure. It may take from a few hours to days for the film to properly cure. The curing process is simply the film bonding properly to the film. If the temperature happens to be cold, the bonding process will be slower.

However, if the temperature happens to be hot, the bonding process will speed up. In the meantime, you cannot roll the windows up or down.

Conclusion

Car window tinting terms and logos are fairly simple to understand and become familiar with. The next time you are out there looking for the best tint option, make sure you keep the information mentioned above in mind. Plus, always pick a certified window tint shop Springfield to get high-quality tints and flawless tint installation.

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