6 Automotive Window Tinting FAQs

by | Jun 13, 2022 | Window Tinting

At Universal Tint Pros, we’re passionate about educating our customers so they can make confident decisions about their unique window tinting needs. We get asked a lot of questions about local window tint laws, how long window tints last, and how to pick the right film for your car.

To better serve you, our experienced window tinting technicians have rounded up the most common FAQs about window tinting we hear at our shop. Take a look at the answers below to see if we’ve covered your inquiries. If you need further assistance, we’re always here to help!

1. What is Automotive Window Tint?

Automotive window tint is a thin, polyester film that is typically made of Polyethylene Terephthalate, or PET. Most window films are applied to the interior surface of your vehicle’s window to block out glare, UV rays, and add a layer of privacy and protection to your ride. Window tint is available in many different shades and materials, including metalized, carbon, and ceramic films.

2. How is Automotive Window Film Installed? How Long is the Installation Process? 

At Universal Tint Pros, our window tinting installation process takes about one to four hours to complete depending on how many windows you need tinted. Our technicians will begin by thoroughly cleaning your windows to remove all traces of dirt and debris. After you decide what type of tint you want to have installed in your car, we will cut a piece of film to fit the size of your window. We  then remove the release liner, which is the side of the tint that is directly applied to the glass. An application solution is then sprayed on the tint’s adhesive to activate it, as well as on the window. Then the film is carefully placed on the inside of your vehicle’s window and a squeegee is used to thoroughly press out the application solution that’s between the film and the glass. To ensure a precise fit, we’ll trim the edges.

3. How Long Does Window Tint Take to Cure?

The curing, or drying, time will depend on the weather and season. Thanks to the hot weather, we get in the south, your window film will completely cure within two to four days. During colder months, it may take up to four weeks for your window tint to dry.

Regardless of the curing time, it’s important to avoid washing your car right away. This will slow the drying time. We recommend parking your vehicle in a sunny spot to accelerate the curing process. If it’s raining out, park your car inside your garage or carport. Don’t roll down your window for at least two to four days after the tint is installed.

A week after the tint installation, you can use an ammonia-free window cleaner and a soft cloth to clean your tint. We recommend using a foam cleaner because it doesn’t leave streaks. Never scrape the film with a blade or use any abrasive solutions to clean the film.  

4. What are the Local Window Tint Laws?

An essential thing to know about your window tint is it’s visible light transmission. Abbreviated as VLT, this is the percentage of light that is allowed through your film and into the car’s interior. The lower the VLT is, the less light will be able to enter your vehicle.

In Florida, the front side windows of your sedan must allow at least 28% of light in. The back windows should let 15% of light into your interior. If you drive an SUV or van, the back windows must allow at least 6% of light in.

If you live in Georgia or Alabama, the VLT must not be less than 32%. However, in Alabama, you can tint your back and rear windows as dark as you want them. 

5. How Durable is Window Film?

Many of our customers with kids or pets ask about the durability of our window tint. We always use film with a scratch-resistant coating to minimize damage. If you take good care of your film, it can last up to 10 years.

6. What are the Benefits of Window Tint?

Window film can enhance the look and feel of your car. It efficiently blocks out 99% of harmful UV rays, keeping your cabin protected from the harsh effects of the sun’s rays. This also prevents your interior from fading. Depending on what type of film you choose to have installed on your vehicle you can also get up to 98% heat rejection to ensure comfort during hot summer days. Automotive window tints can also boost your privacy and protection. When thieves cannot see into your car, they’re less likely to try and break-in.

Quality Window Tinting Solutions in the South

If you want to make your car look sharp while increasing your comfort, consider getting your windows tinted at Universal Tint Pros. With three different locations, we proudly serve the residents of Pensacola, Florida; Peachtree Corners, Georgia, and Birmingham, Alabama.

To learn more, get in touch with our team today!