Car Window Tinting Prices: What You Need to Know

Would you like to have your car windows tinted but want to know more about car window tinting prices first? Learn more here.

Did you know that adding a tint to your car window can block up to 99% of the sun's UV rays? Combined with the aesthetic appeal it can bring, car window tinting is both practical and makes your vehicle outstanding. But do you know how much it costs?

There are many variables that can impact the price. Read on as we break down car window tinting prices in our must-know guide. 

What Is Car Window Tinting?

Car window tinting is a process in which a film is applied to the glass surfaces in a car. This is done to block the sun's UV rays and make the car look more attractive. A wide range of films is available for different uses. 

Films are usually made from polyester substances. They can contain various tinting agents, made from metals and dyes. The level of tint you want will dictate how much of these and which type are in the film. 

Car Window Tinting Prices

Getting an exact price for car window tinting is tough. This is because there are so many variables that can push the price up or down. You can expect to pay as low as $50 for lower quality, self-installation tints, to over $800 for higher-end ones. 

• Numbers of windows you need tinting
• The shape of the windows
• Type of tint film you choose

All of the variables above can impact how much your window tinting will cost. It is also possible to tint windows yourself, though it is not recommended. 

Number and Shape of Windows

The more windows you want tinting, and their shape can increase the price. This is understandable, as more windows take more time and use more film. 

One type of window that can up your cost is a slider window. These tend to be more prevalent on pickups and SUV vehicles. Any vehicle that has larger windows, such as a minivan, will also incur larger fees. 

A small added cost will be added if you need previous films removed. Should some features make removal tougher, this may also increase the cost. 

Types of Window Tints

Window tints come in a wide range of types. The one you choose can have a substantial impact on the cost. 

Dyed Tints

Dyed window tints are the most common and the lowest cost. These films are created from multiple layers of dyed plastic. Dye intensity dictates how dark the tint will be. 

These types of tints keep out a fair amount of the sun's UV rays, keeping the car cool in the process. Unfortunately, as the lowest cost window tint, the dye fades over time meaning it will need replacing. 

Metalized Tints

Metalized tints offer a large step up from dyed tints, with a rise in cost. Small pieces of metal reside within the film which reflects a lot of the sun's rays. Not only are they better at blocking out heat, but they also strengthen the windows of the vehicle. 

Anyone who has metalized tints will know their downside. They can mess with your mobile phone and GPS signals. Should you be someone who needs satellite navigation to get around, then they may not be for you. 

Hybrid Tints

Hybrid tints are a middle ground between both dyed and metalized tints. The affordability and privacy of dyed tints are included with the reflective properties of metalized. They do suffer from the same signal blocking properties due to the metal in them. 

Carbon Window Tints

Carbon tints are a more expensive option, though they have very few downsides. Made up of carbon particles, they won't fade over time and will not block your mobile phone signals. You will also find they have a very unique matte finish to them. 

Their greatest asset is their ability to reflect and conserve heat. Not only do they reflect 40% of infrared light, but they also insulate. That means your car won't lose heat in the winter. 

Ceramic Tints

It does not get much better than a ceramic tint. Ceramic particles contained within the film don't block radio signals. In terms of UV rays, you can expect a 99% reduction. 

Glare reduction is also enhanced, so you won't find light reflecting from surfaces in the vehicle. Being ceramic, they also add unparalleled strength to your windows and increase shatter resistance. As a result, they are the most expensive type of tint. 

DIY vs Professional Window Tint

It is possible to install window tint film yourself, though it is not recommended. There are several reasons for this, starting with the level of experience a professional installation comes with. 

Installing a window tint is not easy. Even though you can do it, it takes a lot of skill. Should you get it wrong, you may waste expensive films. 

A professional will have a secure environment to do the job. When dirt and dust particles get stuck behind the film it will give an uneven surface. All it takes is a light breeze to ruin your DIY application. 

Is Window Tinting Legal?

Window tinting is legal, though states have different rules. It is important to find out how dark your windows are allowed to be when they are tinted. 

This is usually measured in variable light transmission (VLT), the percentage amount of light your tint will get through. In some cases, this can differ depending on the window. Front and side may have different rules to the rear, or certain vehicles may have different rules laid out. 

Car Window Tinting Prices

Once you know what you want from a tint, you can get a better idea of car window tinting prices. Think about your vehicle and what type of tint you want. Once you have checked with state laws, contact a professional company for a quote. 

Your first stop should be Custom Glass Tinting. We can tint automobiles or properties, commercial and residential. Contact us here and speak to one of our experts on tinting your windows immediately.