Find Window Tinting Services Near You!

Automobile window tinting is not only performed for style. Drivers have their windows tinted for medical, comfort and privacy reasons as well. Multiple different types of windows tinting options and styles are available. Laws pursuant to window tinting exist, however, and are different in each state. Therefore, it is essential to learn everything you can about window tinting from the basics to the letter of the law as it applies in your state. Continue reading to gain insight on this information and learn how to find the best window tinting services near you now.

Window Tinting 101

Many consumers are under the impression tinted windows are purposed for style alone. This is not the case, however. Window tinting services are performed for numerous reasons and not on vehicles alone. Tinted windows are also found in houses, on boats and more.

While some automobile windows are indeed tinted for style, other tinted windows serve different purposes. This is as true for windows in vehicles as it is for those in homes. Window tinting is also increasingly popular in modern times. In 2018 the window tinting business had an approximate value of $3.14 billion. The industry’s current value (November 2021) is estimated even higher, with a projected compound annual growth rate of over five percent through 2025. Continue reading to learn more about the reasons behind the popularity of both vehicle and home-based window tinting.

Vehicle Window Tinting

Tinting the windows in your vehicle helps sustain the finish and longevity of its interior surfaces. Tinted windows help block and/or refract damaging ultra-violet (UV) rays from entering your vehicle. This is effective at prolonging the colors and durability of interior surfaces. It also has positive health implications for drivers and passengers alike. Vehicle window tinting also provides significant elements of comfort and privacy. If you have ever traveled on Greyhound Bus Lines in a window seat you have experienced some of the benefits tinted windows offer during extended trips. Passersby are hard-pressed to see inside the windows on the bus. This is an especially useful added security measure when the bus is parked during rest stops or other scheduled breaks. The tinted windows also help keep UV rays and sunlight out, which maintains a more comfortable temperature inside the bus. Finally, the tinted windows on a bus allow people to attempt to sleep more easily. Various benefits of tinted windows also apply to consumer vehicles, commercial and boats.

Home Window Tinting

It is possible you have never considered the option of tinting the windows in your home. Some of the benefits, including privacy and climate control are the same as those provided by tinted windows in vehicles. Keeping home energy bills at affordable low prices is a challenge in areas of the country where extreme or consistently high temperatures are normal. Tinted windows help keep the hot sun out and cool air inside. In fact, some utility companies in Arizona, California and other states/ regions even offer energy bill rebates to consumers who install tinted windows in their homes

Window Tinting - The Process

The time and expenses pursuant to tinting automobile or home windows is dependent upon a variety of factors. For example, the number of windows you have tinted influences the time and price required. Your location and provider availability also play roles in the overall process. When tinting windows in your home, the specific location of those windows also impacts the overall process. For example, windows tinted on a twenty-foot-high skylight or third-floor bedroom might require more time and expenses than windows tinted in a first-floor living room.

Completion Time

Vehicle window tinting is commonly completable within approximately one and one-half hours. The process of tinting windows in a home might take a full day or more. Windows tinted in commercial buildings might take significantly longer, depending on the location and number of windows serviced.

This Is How It Works

The tinted film is fitted to the contour of each window. This involves measuring each window and cutting the film to size. This cutting process also involves utilizing a heat source to adjust the film to applicable curvatures. Once the film is sized, it is removed from its source and placed on a clean glass board. All windows to which tinted film is applied must first be scraped with a flat razor then thoroughly scoured with a Brillo pad and hot soapy water. This removes all elements and debris capable of interfering with the adhesion of the film to the glass. Film is applied to the insides of the glass in both vehicles and homes. Please note: Between three and five days might be necessary for the film to completely adhere to the window to which it is attached. 

Window Tinting - Average Prices

Average vehicle window tinting services cost between $50-$600 for basic non-reflective film. Median costs are approximately $194, with prices fluctuating higher and lower based on location, materials, and vehicle type. For example, average prices might range between $200 and $800 for station wagons, minivans, SUVs, and crossover vehicles.

The national average cost to tint windows in a home is approximately $660. The lowest expected average price falls to around $250 per service. The highest prices range up to approximately $1,600 or more, depending on circumstances. Prices average to approximately $6 per square foot of film applied. Again, pricing variations might apply based on numerous factors.

Types of Tinted Film

Prices are also impacted by the type of film you purchase. Each type has its own pros, cons, and price ranges. For example, ceramic window tint is the most expensive type available even though it offers less privacy. At the same time, ceramic window tinting also is fade resistant, shatterproof and a significantly potent heat blocking material. Additional types of tinted film and their primary pros and cons include:

• Carbon (Pros include durability, non-reflectivity, and fade-resistance. Cons include higher prices than all other types of film).

• Metallic (Pros include fade-resistance and ample UV ray blockage. Cons include Wi-Fi and radio signal interference and significant reflectivity).

• Hybrid (Pros include resistance to interior fading, non-reflectivity, and a dark crisp appearance. Cons include price.).

• Dyed (Pros include affordability, dark appearance, and non-interference with electronic devices. Cons include susceptibility to fading, a bubbled appearance if improperly installed and reduced efficacy compared to pricier materials).

Vehicle Window Tinting - State Laws

State laws pursuant to vehicle window tinting are largely based on light transmission percentages. For example, some states demand tinted vehicles windows to maintain a seventy-percent light transmission. New Mexico, however, permits a mere twenty-percent light transmission. Some states completely prohibit tinting on front and rear windshields. Laws also vary based on vehicle type in every U.S. state.

Top Companies

Are you looking for the best window tinting service providers near you? While most prices tend to be made available by direct quote only, most also align with national averages. National Window Tint is one of the best companies in business today. Coupons and specials are periodically offered on high-quality ceramic film. Tint World is another top nationwide company, which offers coupons and specials on pricing all year long. A few additional nationwide window tinting companies include:

• AC GlassTinting.

• 3M.

• AP Tinting.