THE 4 MAIN TYPES OF WINDOW TINT FILM

Male tint technician applying car window tint

Window tinting is a fantastic way to increase privacy and reduce heat and sunlight damage in cars, vans, trucks, motorhomes, RVs, buses, boats and both residential and commercial buildings. If it has a window then you may well be able to tint it.

However, there is more than one type of window tint film that can be used, and the different types have varying benefits and restrictions.

Below we have detailed 4 of the main types of window tinting films that are in use today.

1) Dyed window tint film

This is the most affordable choice of window tinting for the initial tint. However, it is more prone to fading over time than some other tint types and so will need to be replaced after a while. This film is made by layers of dye being applied to the adhesive film, building up a darker color. It appears opaque from outside of the vehicle or building and will provide increased privacy for those inside. It will stop some light and some heat from penetrating through into the inside as the particles of dye reflect some away, but it does not block as much heat from entering as some films can. This tint is best for those on a tight budget who primarily want tint for privacy and not heat reduction

2) Metalized window tint film

Metalized window tinting film uses tiny metallic particles to reflect the sunlight away from the window and it reduces light and heat penetration better than dyed window films. It is also more scratch resistant than dyed film and is less prone to fading over time. The metal in the film also increases the strength of the window, reducing the chance of glass shatter. From the outside, a window with metalized window tinting film appears shiny. One potential downside of metalized tinting is that it has sometimes been thought to interfere with clear phone or GPS signals. Though it is more expensive than dyed window film, its durability and heat reflective properties may make it a worthwhile investment.

3) Carbon window tinting film

Carbon window tint film contains no metal and so, unlike metalized tint film, it has a matte finish when viewed from the outside. This can be appealing if this effect is preferred to a shinier finish. Carbon window tint blocks up to 40% of infrared radiation, reducing the amount of sunlight damage done to upholstery, and carpets and furnishing in buildings. Carbon film reduces heat penetration and increases privacy, and is an all round good choice for auto window tinting or residential or commercial window tinting. Like metalized window film, it is less prone to fading than dyed window film. Carbon window film is less associated with signal interference than metalized film.

4) Ceramic window tinting film

The most expensive and probably the highest functioning window tinting film, Ceramic film is fairly new but already very popular. Blocking up to 50% of infrared radiation, it can also block up to 99% of ultraviolet radiation, reducing the chance of skin damage though the glass. This tint film is good for reducing light and heat penetration, and thus reduces upholstery fading. Ceramic film consists of non-conductive, non-metallic particles, and is not known to interfere with electrical signals. This film is excellent at providing good driving visibility in both day and night conditions. Though a more expensive film, it is highly durable and long lasting, scratch resistance, fade resistance, highly effective and can help to strengthen windows. An excellent choice if your budget will stretch to it.

Give us a call at Window Tinting Fayetteville NC if you would like to discuss the various tint types and we can advise on which type may be most suitable for you. We want our customers to be happy with the results of the work we do, so we only use high quality films. Don’t trust your windows to companies who use low quality cheap films, call and make an appointment with us today.