Car window tinting specialist garages
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What is car window tinting?
Window tinting involves applying a thin polyester laminate film to the inside of a vehicle’s windows, making them darker. It can be done for aesthetic or practical reasons - for example, you might want added privacy or protection from UV rays.
Car window tinting prices
The price of a window tint depends on the type of film used and how many windows need doing. You could opt for a front tint, a rear tint or an all-window tint. The average price on FixMyCar is £150.67.
Car make | Average price |
---|---|
Audi | £209.58 |
BMW | £225.43 |
Ford | £190.93 |
Mercedes | £214.16 |
MINI | £235 |
Nissan | £128.75 |
Peugeot | £263.33 |
Renault | £180 |
Vauxhall | £202.52 |
Volkswagen | £177.61 |
Volvo | £234.40 |
Benefits of window tinting
1. Protection from UV rays
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are harmful to our skin, and with cases of melanoma on the rise, you might be wary of sun exposure. One of the main benefits of window tinting is that it can reduce these rays, protecting you from skin damage.
2. Prevents fading and sun damage
Window tinting can help keep your car’s interior in top condition. It blocks harsh rays from the sun that cause your car’s upholstery to fade and prevents leather and vinyl from cracking due to sun exposure.
3. Temperature regulation
Nobody wants to spend time in a hot car. It’s stifling and unpleasant - you probably know what we’re talking about, even if your vehicle has air conditioning. Temperature regulation is another significant benefit of window tinting. It can block anywhere from 35-65% of solar heat. As a result, your aircon doesn’t have to work as hard, which helps you save money on fuel.
4. Privacy
Your privacy is important, and the same goes for your passengers. Window tints make it more difficult for prying eyes to see inside your vehicle.
5. Protection from shattered glass
Hopefully, you’ll never experience a situation where your car’s glass is at risk of shattering. But if you do, window tinting will give you an added layer of protection. The film is designed to prevent glass from shattering when an object hits it, safeguarding you and your passengers from shards of glass.
Laws on tinted windows in the UK
There are no rules for tinting the rear windscreen or passenger windows. However, there are rules for windows at the front of the vehicle.
For cars first used on or after 1st April 1985, the front windscreen must allow a minimum of 75% of light through, and the front side windows must let at least 70% of light through.
Types of window tinting
Dyed window tinting
The most common and affordable type of window tint is the dyed tint film, which is for appearance rather than functionality. It consists of several layers of dyed film that absorb light - you can adjust these based on how dark you want the windows to look.
Although dyed tinting is affordable, it doesn't offer the same level of UV or heat protection as other options and can fade with time.
Metallic window tinting
Metallic tints contain metal microparticles. The technology uses reflection to protect from sunlight rather than absorbing it, giving the tint a shinier appearance.
These tints are highly scratch-resistant and have a strengthening effect, making the windows less likely to shatter on impact. However, the metal particles can sometimes interfere with GPS or radio signals.
Hybrid window tinting
Hybrid window tints contain a mix of dyes and metal particles. They have several dyed layers with a thin layer of metal between them (usually titanium).
Unlike metallic tints, hybrid tints don't cause radio interference or have a shiny appearance. They are durable, good at blocking UV rays and more affordable than metallic versions.
Carbon window tinting
Carbon window tints use carbon fibre particles for excellent durability and UV ray protection. They have a matte finish, which some drivers prefer for aesthetic reasons. If you're worried about sun damage, this is the tint you should choose.
In addition to blocking UV rays, carbon tints significantly reduce the sun's heat, keeping your car cooler for longer, and they won't fade with time.
Carbon tinting is more expensive than hybrid, dyed or metallic tinting, but the longevity and features may be worth the extra money, depending on your reasons for wanting the modification.
Ceramic window tinting
The best sun-blocking window tint is ceramic, but it's also the most expensive option. Ceramic tints block around 99 per cent of UV rays, and due to the absence of dyes or metal particles, they do not fade or interfere with radio signals.
The ceramic particles don't conduct heat, so they offer the same level of sunlight reflection with better insulation, which makes them ideal for reducing the car's inside temperature. Ceramic tints - similar to metallic - are shatter-proof, giving you extra protection.
How does window tinting work?
A sheet of strong polyester laminate is applied to the inside of the window to protect it from external sources of wear, making it last longer. The laminate is treated in various ways to improve the window's appearance. There is also an extra thin layer of tinting agents like dyes and metals to achieve the desired characteristics, such as blocking UV rays.
All window films work on the same principles: radiation, reflection, absorption and transmission. They use 'sputter coating' (a coat of metal particles) to determine how much light the tint reflects. The more sputter coating, the less light gets through.
Is window tinting necessary for your car?
Window tinting isn’t a necessity. But if you like the appearance or practical benefits of tinted windows, that’s a perfectly good reason to get it done. You probably spend a lot of time in your car, so making it look good on the outside and last longer on the inside can only be a good thing if you ask us.
Tips for booking a window tint
Decide in advance what kind of window tint you want.
Remember, there are rules about window tinting that must be followed.
Give the technician a helping hand by cleaning your car and its windows.
Some mobile mechanics offer window tinting, which might be a more convenient option. This guide discusses the advantages of using a mobile mechanic.
Find out how to feel more confident about car repairs.
Get your car windows tinted at home
Window tinting doesn't have to be done at a garage. FixMyCar can help you find a trusted mobile mechanic to do the job at a location of your choice. Enter your details, and we'll send quotes straight to your inbox, allowing you to compare local mechanics based on price, location and reviews.
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What is a car window tint?
A window tint is a thin layer of vinyl film that adheres to the inside of a glass surface. You can choose from different types of tint depending on what benefits you want - some provide better UV protection, while others have better insulating properties.
How long will a car window tint last?
High-quality window tints can last for five years or more. It all depends on what type of tint you choose - dyed tints typically last much less time than ceramic or carbon tints.
Should I wash my car before the windows are tinted?
Your car's windows must be clean before a tint can be applied. If you get the job done by a window tinting professional, they will ensure the glass is prepared to a high standard before starting the tinting process.
How long will car window tinting take?
Window tinting typically takes two to four hours.
Which window tint is best for blocking out UV rays and sunlight?
The two best options for UV and heat protection are carbon and ceramic tints.
Do I need to tell anyone I have tinted my windows?
Yes, you must inform your insurance provider of any aftermarket modifications, even if you're tinting the glass to improve security or protect young children from the sun.