Auto Window Tinting: A Complete Guide to Car Window Tinting

Leo’s Touch Window Tinting Blogger • January 21, 2023

Are you familiar with the auto window tinting in Tampa? Get a complete breakdown of how car window tinting works here in this guide.

auto window tinting Tampa

Temperatures in Tampa average 82ºF, so finding ways to stay cool during the summer months is essential. Furthermore, you want to stay comfortable even when you're traveling.


One way to do this is to have your car windows tinted. Window tint laws differ by state, so understanding what is allowed in your hometown is essential before you go ahead.


You also want to find the best company for auto window tinting in Tampa that your budget allows, because the adage "you get what you pay for" can apply to this industry.



So, keep reading if you're interested in getting your car windows tinted this year. Here is our complete guide to car window tinting.

What Is Window Tinting?

Auto window tinting is the process of adding a layer of film over the windows of your car. This film is applied to the rear window and all the side windows. However, the front windscreen is not legally allowed to be tinted. There are two types of car window tinting: factory and aftermarket tinting.


No matter who is applying your tinting, you can choose several types of window tinting, each with its pros and cons. Window tinting darkens your windows, blocking a percentage of light from entering your vehicle. This light is referred to as Visible Light Transference (VLT).


Window tinting is sold in percentages, and this percentage refers to the amount of VL (visible light) that is allowed to pass through. The higher the number, the more light is allowed through. For example, a window tint with a 75% VLT will block 25% of the VL, allowing only 75% of light to enter the vehicle.

Benefits of Window Tinting in Tampa

The reasons why people opt to have auto window tinting can vary. Some of the benefits of tinting your car windows include the following:

Stay Cool

A significant benefit of having your car windows tinted is that you and your vehicle interior remain cooler than the ambient temperature outside. If your car has an air conditioner, window tinting will help it run more efficiently by blocking external heat from competing with the AC. Furthermore, tinted windows help keep your car cool while parked outside.

Increased Privacy

Darker windows on your vehicle also mean you'll have increased privacy while in your car. Auto window tinting is a way to protect your car's interior from prying eyes seeing inside your vehicle as they pass by.

UV Protection

Choosing the correct level of tint can also help protect you from the harsh UV rays of the sun. Having tinted windows reduces the level of ultraviolet rays entering the car, allowing you to avoid sun damage to your skin.

Reduced Shattering

Finally, another benefit of auto window tinting in Tampa is its ability to help reduce the effect of shattering if someone tries to break your window. This is because the film acts as a protective layer that holds the glass together, making it tough to shatter as untinted windows would.

Window Tint Laws in Your State

Window tinting is a regulated business, and there are laws and regulations regarding it in every state. Window tint laws may vary by state, so it's essential to know the regulations in your state before proceeding. Each state will have a limit on the percentage of tint you can apply to your car's windows.


If your car comes with factory-fitted auto window tinting and you want to add more tinting, you need to consider the level of tinting the vehicle came with when choosing the additional tinting VL percentage. If you add too much, the final tint percentage could push you into an illegal level of VLT%.

auto window tinting benefits

Window Tint Options

You'll have a few material options when choosing aftermarket auto window tinting in Tampa. These are ceramic, carbon, and hybrid window tints.

Ceramic Window Tint

Ceramic window tinting is typically considered the best quality window tinting in Tampa available, making it a more costly option than its less expensive counterparts. Ceramic tint is worthwhile because it blocks almost all of the sun's UV rays (99%). It's created from ceramic particles that don't conduct heat. Finally, ceramic tints take longer to fade than other tinting materials.

Carbon Window Tint

Carbon window tint is your next best option after ceramic window tinting, but its quality is slightly lower. However, it has the benefit that carbon window tinting doesn't fade over time. It also has a matte finish; however, this option can be more costly, so compare prices before committing to a window tint material.

Hybrid Window Tint

This option combines the two materials we've previously mentioned. However, it has less UV protection than its ceramic and carbon counterparts. It consists of a single metal layer between several dyed material layers. This metal, unfortunately, can interfere with your radio signal. Costs can vary, so compare pricing before committing.

Tips on Choosing an Auto Window Tinting in Tampa

Choosing a company that can offer the best auto window tinting in Tampa is essential if you want a well-applied tint. When selecting a company, you should consider a few factors before making a final decision. These should include the following:

Tinting Options Offered

Your first step is to check what the company you're looking at offers. You may have already decided you want a ceramic tint, so you need to check that the companies you're considering offer this option. If they don't, move on to the next candidate.

Their Experience

If you want a well-done job, you want to ensure the company you're using has the necessary experience to apply the tint correctly. If the company hasn't been in business long, you should contact references before committing if you don't skip them altogether.

Warranties

Finally, you want to inquire about any warranties the company offers. Find out how long it's applicable and what it covers. Window tinting can be expensive, so you want to know if your tint is protected against faults for a period after its application.

Find the Best Auto Window Tinting Company Today

Now that you know all the benefits of getting your windows tinted, you may be eager to get your vehicle tinted immediately. Spend time reading about the different types of tints available to decide which is the best option for your vehicle and budget.


Before committing, remember to properly vet the company you're considering using and ask about their offerings, experience, and warranties.


Contact us at Leo's Touch Window Tinting if you want high-quality auto window tinting in Tampa by experienced professionals. We provide our services in Tampa, FL, and are waiting to give you your free estimate.

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