How Much Does Automotive Window Tinting Cost?

Automotive Window Tinting Benefits

As mentioned, one of the biggest advantages of window tinting is its ability to block ultraviolet (UV) rays. High-quality films can halt up to 99 percent of these harmful rays, significantly reducing the negative impacts like skin cancer.

Window tint can help stop these same UV rays from damaging your car’s upholstery. This also keeps heat out, which affords better temperature regulation inside your vehicle.

Tinting adds strength to your windows, which protects against break-ins or in severe weather. Also, window film helps keep the window from shattering when struck by an object. And window tint can provide privacy as well as protection against theft by keeping passers-by from seeing inside your vehicle.



Other than privacy, it is a common misconception that the darker the tint the more effective it is. That can be the case for lower-end tints. But with products like ceramic tint, you can achieve the same levels of UV and heat protection without the darker shade.

Window Tinting Costs

There are a few basic considerations when determining window tint costs. In general, darker films will cost more than lighter ones. Special colors or types of tint can run you a premium.



You also have the option of having distinct levels of tint for different windows in your car. The amount of film applied to your car will impact the total price. But the most impactful factor on window tint cost is the type of product you go with.

Dyed Window Film

Dyed window film is the most economical option for tinting. It comprises several layers of dyed film that absorb sun rays.

Besides blocking light, they are good for providing privacy. However, they have a limited ability to block UV rays that can cause harm to your skin or damage your car’s interior. Likewise, they will be less efficient at deflecting heat from entering your vehicle’s cabin.



There are high-quality dyed window tints, but even these tend to fade over time. Besides not looking great, they become less effective when they do so.

Metalized

Metalized window tint will be a step up from dyed film. As its name suggests, it uses metallic particles to reflect light, as opposed to absorbing it. Metalized tint does a better job than dyed film of blocking UV rays, although it is not as effective as other types.



Metalized film is scratch-resistant, and it adds strength to your windows. One big downside is that these films can interferer with phone and GPS signals.

Carbon

These films are made from carbon fiber particles that are very efficient at blocking UV rays. It has a strong insulating capacity and can reduce heat from the sun that raises your car’s internal temperature by about half.

Carbon fiber is very durable and will not fade over time. It provides a matte finish, versus the shinier ones produced by metallic film.



Across the board, carbon tinting will be more expensive than dyed and metallic film. However, its ability to look great and function properly for a long time may offset the added cost.

Ceramic

Ceramic window tinting is the highest quality film you can buy. These block more than 99 percent of UV rays. They also are the most effective at insulating against heat from the sun and reducing glare without the need for a darker tint. Also, ceramic tint can accomplish this without sacrificing visibility.

Ceramic tint has the strength of metallic film but will not interfere with GPS signals. Also, since it contains no dyes, it will not fade over time. For these reasons, ceramic tint will come with the steepest automotive tinting price.



That being said, the total cost for ceramic tint could only be a few hundred dollars more than other films. Depending on your budget, this price difference could be nominal for the much higher quality product you're getting.

DIY Window Tinting

Do-it-yourself window tinting kits have become quite popular for budget reasons. But there are several reasons you should think about taking on the task yourself. For starters, properly installing window tint requires special tools, which will drive up the cost.

Next, while you may identity helpful online DIY videos, you will not have the expertise of a trained technician. Improperly installing the tint could reduce its effectiveness, not to mention the risk of the job looking sloppy.

If you select a prominent installer, your tint job will come with a warranty. Should it not perform like its intended, you can expect the company to make it right. Going with a qualified installation shop can help mitigate these risks so that you know your window tint will look great and perform well.

States have different laws for the level of tinting allowed. These vary widely, even from window to window. In fact, all states have different limits on windshield tinting than on the other windows throughout the vehicle. A reputable automotive window tinting company will provide different options that are within the boundaries of the law.

Find a Window Tint Expert Near You

Now that you have an idea of how much automotive window tinting costs, you can budget accordingly. Although there are many options to choose from, the good news is that there is almost certainly a product to fit your tinting preferences.

At Velocity Window Tinting, we provide top-of-the-line products, including Llumar tint. We provide all levels of car customization to fit your tinting needs and your budget. Reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation.