Tinting your car’s windows is a popular upgrade that offers many practical benefits, including UV protection and reduced glare. However, it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to unsatisfactory results.
Understanding these common pitfalls can help you avoid them and enjoy the beauty of your new tint for as long as possible. Contact Car Window Tinting Colorado Springs for more information.
1. Choosing the Wrong Type of Tint
Owning a car allows you to get where you need to go quickly and easily. It also gives you a sense of freedom and lets you avoid the hassles of public transportation and unpredictable weather. However, did you know that there are certain upgrades that can make your vehicle even more useful? Tinting your car windows, for example, offers a wide range of benefits. It increases privacy and deters theft by making it harder for outsiders to see what’s inside. It reduces glare to enhance driving comfort and safety, and it can also help prevent glass from shattering in the event of an accident. Tinting also enhances your vehicle’s appearance and makes it easier to keep clean.
Choosing the wrong type of tint can lead to legal trouble and unnecessary expense, so it’s important to research your local laws and select a window tint that meets regulations. For instance, you shouldn’t go over the maximum VLT (Visible Light Transmission) percentage allowed in your area because this will attract police attention. You should also ensure that your tint does not interfere with electronic signals, which can be a problem for some vehicles.
A professional window tinting shop can provide advice on what type of film will work best for your climate and driving habits. For example, if you live in a hot climate, you may want to choose a darker tint that blocks more solar energy. Meanwhile, if you drive at night often, you should opt for a lighter tint that doesn’t make it too dark to see the road ahead.
A high-quality tint will block nearly all UV rays, which can fade upholstery and crack dashboards. It also rejects a significant amount of infrared heat, which helps keep the interior cooler and conserves your air conditioning’s workload. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to maintain the quality and longevity of your tint. For example, it’s essential to not use harsh cleaners that can damage the film or loosen the adhesive.
2. Not Checking Your Local Laws
In Colorado, tinting laws are very specific and depend on a thing called VLT (visible light transmission). They’re meant to ensure that drivers can see clearly while driving, which is a crucial element of safety. Those who don’t follow the rules can be fined. It’s important to get your tinting done by a reputable and experienced company that follows these rules.
Tinting your vehicle is an excellent way to keep it cool while protecting your privacy. However, it’s important to make sure that you choose a type of film that is legal in your state. For example, some types of tints may not be allowed in Colorado because they can cause glare that hinders other motorists’ visibility and makes it harder for them to spot other vehicles. Some tints also interfere with electronic signals, which can be a major problem for some drivers.
Many people who have their cars tinted don’t realize that there are specific tinting regulations that they need to abide by. Colorado, for instance, only allows a certain percentage of tint in the front and rear windows. It also prohibits colored tints such as red and amber, as they can confuse other drivers into thinking that a vehicle has emergency lights on.
While most people understand that car accidents are dangerous and can result in serious injuries, they don’t always consider how their own modifications might contribute to them. Some drivers have been pulled over for having tint that’s too dark, which is a big problem since they can be fined or even required to remove it altogether. Fortunately, services like Colorado Clear Bra can help drivers comply with local laws and avoid these kinds of issues.
3. Trying to Do It Yourself
Tinting your car windows is an important modification that serves both aesthetic and practical purposes. It protects the interior of your vehicle from harmful UV rays, reduces glare, and helps to maintain a cooler cabin. Unfortunately, the tinting process is not without its pitfalls, and even small mistakes can lead to poor results. For this reason, it is always best to leave the job to professionals who have the skills and tools necessary to achieve a flawless finish.
One of the most common mistakes when it comes to tinting is trying to do it yourself. While there are many DIY kits available, they often lack the precision and quality of a professional job. This can result in uneven or misaligned tint that detracts from the appearance of your vehicle. Furthermore, incorrect measurements can lead to air bubbles and trapped dust that can erode the tint over time.
Another mistake when it comes to tinting is not researching local laws and regulations. This can lead to citations and forced removal, so it is important to know the legal requirements for your area before proceeding. Additionally, a window tint that is too dark can negatively impact visibility, so it is crucial to choose a legal VLT percentage for each window type based on your state’s guidelines.
Additionally, choosing low-quality films can also be a costly mistake. While some cheap films may appear to be a good deal, they often don’t hold up and can fade or peel quickly. Therefore, it is essential to invest in a high-quality film that offers a guarantee and a warranty that ensures its longevity. In addition, following your installer’s care instructions can help to preserve the appearance and performance of your tint.
4. Not Choosing High-Quality Films
Choosing low-quality tints may seem like a quick and inexpensive fix, but you’re putting your car’s safety and aesthetics at risk. In addition to preventing unwanted glare and potential distractions, high-quality films protect you and your passengers from harmful UV rays and slow the fading of vehicle interiors. This translates to a lower cost for you in the long run by reducing repairs and replacement costs, as well as maintaining your vehicle’s value.
A poor quality film is also more likely to peel or bubble, compromising the integrity and appearance of your window. It is therefore important to seek out a professional tinting shop, which will have the equipment and experience to ensure a flawless installation. Professionals will also be aware of local laws and regulations, avoiding the risk of fines for illegally dark tints that obstruct your view while driving.
Dyed tints consist of dye sandwiched between an adhesive layer and a protective polyester coating, making them the most popular option for drivers on a budget. However, these films have a limited lifespan and tend to fade over time due to sunlight exposure. This means that you’ll eventually have to replace your tint, resulting in more expense than if you had chosen a more durable option.
Crystalline tints are a better choice for those seeking a high-performance solution that lasts longer. The base layer is a UV-blocking film that prevents sun damage and skin-related health problems, while the metallic reflective surface bounces back heat efficiently, keeping your cabin cool on sweltering days. This helps you avoid excessive reliance on air conditioning, saving fuel and money in the process. These tints are also scratch-resistant, adding to their longevity and visual appeal.
5. Not Taking Care of Your Tint
Tinted windows offer a range of benefits, from increased privacy and security to improved heat rejection. However, incorrect installation or failure to properly care for your tint can significantly decrease its lifespan and appearance. Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to ensure your car’s tint is long-lasting and looks great.
First and foremost, it is important to thoroughly clean your vehicle before having it tinted. This will remove any obstinate residue and ensure a smooth, even application. Using mild glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth or towel is recommended, as using harsh cleaners can damage the tint film. It is also critical to avoid rolling down your windows during the curing period, which can vary depending on the window tint type and weather conditions.
Many motorists choose the wrong tint level for their vehicles, often choosing a darker shade than allowed by local laws. This can reduce visibility and potentially lead to fines or forced removal. It’s best to consult with a professional who can help you navigate your state’s regulations and choose the right tint for your vehicle.
Finally, improper care of your tint can cause it to fade prematurely or develop air bubbles. It’s best to avoid direct sunlight, park in the shade when possible, and use a soft cloth or paper towel for cleaning. Avoid rubbing or scraping your vehicle’s windows with abrasive materials, as these can scratch or puncture the tint and void any warranty protection.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a smooth, long-lasting tint job that enhances your vehicle’s comfort, safety, and style. Choosing a reputable, experienced installer will also ensure legal compliance and a high-quality result.