Car window tinting is a practical choice for many car owners. It helps reduce glare, keeps the interior cooler, and just offers better protection from the sun. Tinted windows also provide an added layer of privacy and security, which I personally appreciate. For some, tinting is even a necessity due to medical conditions that require reduced sunlight exposure.
Before deciding to tint your car, it’s important to understand the different types of tints available, the benefits they offer, and the legal requirements for window tinting in the UK.
If you’re considering tinting your car windows, this guide will answer common questions, outline the benefits, and explain why Carbon Accents could be a good choice for your window tinting needs in London.
Table of Contents:
- Context
- What is Car Window Tinting?
- Why People Tint Their Car Windows?
- Legal Considerations for Car Window Tinting in the UK
- How Much Does Car Window Tinting Cost in London?
- Why Choose Carbon Accents for Car Window Tinting?
- Book Your Appointment Today
- Frequently Asked Questions About Car Window Tinting
But First, Here’s Some Context
My name is Samir Hayath, and I am one of the owners of Carbon Accents and CA Detailing, along with my cousins.
Samir Hayath completing the Window Tinting Academy course (holding the certificate)
I’m always looking for ways to expand my skills and bring more value to our customers. Recently, I attended a Window Tinting Training Course at The Tint Academy in Chester, which was very insightful. The head instructor, Callum Jackson, is a good mentor.
Window tinting has always been something I wanted to master and add to my skill set.
The course at The Tint Academy, which spans three intensive days, gave me hands-on training and invaluable insights and pro tips. It covers real-world challenges like curved surfaces and dust. We learned how to tackle these with precision, building the skills and confidence to handle different kinds of windows.
It’s not just about aesthetics, it’s about functionality, privacy, and protection. For example, tints can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays, according to a scientific study about cancer protection.
At Carbon Accents, we pride ourselves on offering premium quality services, and I knew that mastering window tinting would be a game changer for our business if I really mastered it.
With my new skills, we can now offer tinting services in our studio that meet the highest standards of quality and precision.
What is Car Window Tinting?
Car window tinting involves applying a thin, transparent film to the windows of your vehicle. The film reduces the amount of light that enters your car, providing various benefits depending on the level of tint you choose.
This is a car we’ve completed. This was my first job after the academy and I felt really comfortable applying to the film, knowing that I could handle the process with precision and steady hands. Btw, here’s a pro tip: breathing in a controlled way is the secret to steady hands.
Why Do People Tint Their Car Windows?
There are several reasons why car owners decide to tint their windows. Here are the main benefits:
1. UV Protection
Tinted windows can block up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which helps protect your skin from sun damage and prevents your car’s interior from fading or cracking. Studies show that UV protection is one of the top reasons car owners opt for tinting. It’s positively correlated with skin cancer reduction.
2. Increased Privacy
By reducing visibility into your vehicle, tinted windows provide an added layer of privacy, especially when transporting valuables or simply desiring personal space.
3. Temperature Control
Tinting helps maintain a cooler interior by limiting heat entry, enhancing comfort during warmer months, and reducing reliance on air conditioning. This temperature control is a key benefit, especially during the summer.
4. Reduced Glare
By minimizing glare from the sun, tinted windows improve visibility and reduce eye strain, which contributes to safer driving conditions. It’s especially helpful during bright conditions, such as sunrise or sunset, as mentioned in various research.
5. Enhanced Aesthetic
While the primary benefits of window tinting are functional, many people also choose to tint their windows for the sleek, uniform look it provides. Tinted windows can make your vehicle more polished, adding to its overall aesthetic appeal.
What Are the Different Tint Films There Are?
When selecting a window tint for your car, it’s essential to understand the differences between the different films there are. We work with 3 types, which are 1-ply, 2-ply, and ceramic.
Here’s a concise breakdown:
1-Ply Tint Films
These single-layer films are the most affordable option but really lack durability. It has a very short warranty and lasts only for a couple of years. While they might suit a tight budget, they’re often avoided.
2-Ply Tint Films
2-ply films are more common for auto films. The second ply is usually coatings on the film that add performance to the product.
Ceramic Tint Films
The premium choice, ceramic films excel at blocking heat and UV rays while maintaining signal clarity for phones and GPS. Though they come at a higher price, they’re highly recommended for their superior performance and longevity.
Dyed and Metallic Tints
Dyed films are known for their dark appearance and budget-friendly pricing but don’t offer much in terms of heat rejection. Metallic tints, on the other hand, provide good heat resistance but may interfere with electronic signals.
What Is VLT% in Car Tinting?
VLT%, or Visible Light Transmission percentage, refers to the amount of light that can pass through your car windows after tinting. Simply put, it tells you how dark or light the tint will appear. A lower VLT% means less light is allowed through, making the tint darker.
For example, a 50% VLT film allows 50% of light to pass through, blocking 50%. The lower the percentage, the more privacy and heat reduction you’ll get, but it can also affect visibility, especially at night.
Legal Considerations for Car Window Tinting in the UK
It’s important to ensure your tint complies with UK regulations. Here are the key rules:
- Front Windscreen: Must allow at least 75% VLT of light to pass through.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow at least 70% VLT of light to pass through.
- Rear Side and Rear Windows: These can be tinted darker, as far as 35% VLT, but should still allow enough light for safety.
Ensure your tinting service complies with these rules to avoid fines or the need to remove the tint.
How Much Does Car Window Tinting Cost in London?
The cost of tinting your car windows depends on factors like the type of tint, the number of windows, and the vehicle’s make and model. On average, car window tinting services in London range from £100 to £400.
Basic tinting can cost around £100 for smaller vehicles, while a full tinting job on a larger car could cost up to £400. At Carbon Accents, we offer the best prices with quality film.
Why Choose Carbon Accents for Car Window Tinting?
If you're looking for reliable car window tinting in London, Carbon Accents offers professional services at competitive prices.
This is a picture of one of our cars that I tinted recently, using ceramic tint:
Tinted F20 M135i LCI
We provide window tinting services in North London.
We use durable, high-quality tint films that offer good UV protection and longevity. Our unit in Tottenham, North London, is easy to reach for customers in London and surrounding areas.
Book Your Appointment Today
If you're ready to tint your car windows, here’s how you can get started:
- Online Booking: Click here to book your appointment.
- Phone: Call us at 0207 123 8995.
- Email: Contact us at support@carbonaccents.co.uk for any inquiries.
Conclusion
Car window tinting offers practical benefits such as UV protection, privacy, and glare reduction. It’s also an easy way to enhance the look of your vehicle. If you're in London and need professional, reliable tinting services, Carbon Accents is here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Window Tinting
Q. What is the darkest tint legal in a car?
A. In the UK, the darkest legal tint for front side windows is 70% light transmission. Rear side and rear windows can be tinted darker, but visibility should not be obstructed.
Q. Is tint good for your car?
A. Yes, tinting provides UV protection, reduces glare, and can help maintain a cooler interior. It also enhances privacy and improves the overall look of your vehicle.
Q. What does car tint do?
A. Car tint blocks UV rays, reduces glare, improves privacy, and helps control the temperature inside your car.
Q. How long does car window tint last?
A. High-quality tint typically lasts 5 to 10 years, depending on the type of film and how well it’s maintained. This depends on the tint quality and skill of application, poorly applied tint can bubble and peel within a year, so be sure to get it done right the first time.