A Complete Buyers Guide To Understanding The Different Types Of  Window Tint Films

Understanding the many types of window films on the market today can be
overwhelming. First, you have to decide the intended purpose of your window film
project. There are window films for every need including automotive, home and office. In
order to choose which is right for your needs, this article will help you understand the
various types of window film available today.

What are the advantages of window film?

Window film is used to decrease the amount of sunlight and heat energy entering
through a glass surface such as automotive windows and architectural windows in
commercial or residential structures. This means a significant drop in temperature inside
the automobile or building. Window films can reject and absorb heat, UV rays, and
infrared particles before they have a chance to cause damage to you or your property.

Automotive window film advantages

1. Prevents damaging UV rays from entering a vehicle and protects all passengers
from harmful sun exposure which causes melanoma and other skin cancers
2. Decreases distracting sun glares, creating an ideal driving experience
3. Rejects heat and helps your cooling system run more efficiently and helps ensure
the overall climate is cooler.
4. Protects the interior of the vehicle from fading including upholstery, leather seats,
and accents.

Architectural window film advantages

1. Blocks up to 60% of heat
2. Reduces energy bill up to 30% a month
3. Decreases sun glares and harmful UV rays
4. Increases the life of furniture and floors and prevents fade and damage caused
over time.
5. Allows natural light through maintaining optimal views, therefore Home Owners
Associations approve.

How is window film made?

1. First, an acrylic adhesive is needed to hold layers of window film together. This
adhesive is thick and needs to be diluted with a solvent for smoother, more even
application.
2. Next, the thinned adhesive is mixed thoroughly with the essential ingredients
such as colorants, chemicals used to absorb UV and infrared rays, and initiators
to speed up the curing process.
3. Then, a chemical catalyst is added to this mixture to activate tinting ingredients.
4. Next, this mixture is applied to clear plastic film. The thickness of the film
depends on the intended purpose of the final product. The mixture must be
applied evenly and smoothly to avoid unwanted imperfections.
5. Then, the newly coated film is allowed to dry and cure before being passed under
special UV lights used to activate this coating. (If this were a 1-ply design the
next step would be to add the mounting adhesive, cut to size and prepare for
packaging).
6. Next, a final layer of plastic film is applied with a laminating adhesive, once cured
a final layer of adhesive is applied for mounting purposes.
7. Lastly, the product is rolled onto large spools and cut to standard widths for
various projects. The installers will cut the film to size for any window at the time
of installation.

What are the different types of window tint?

There are three different types of window film used in today’s market. Window
tints come with an option of reflective coatings, however, for automotive purposes, this
is typically not the case because state regulations require a certain level of visibility of
the driver at all times. Below are three types of window tint films and their advantages:

1. Ceramic window films: Ceramic films are considered superior in today’s market
for their exceptional energy rejection and absorption. These ceramic films can
block 99% of energy sources such as UV and infrared rays. This reduces the
overall temperature inside. The distracting sun glares are diminished as well.
Ceramic films prevent fading to interiors and harmful skin conditions such as
melanoma and skin cancers. These films provide a clear view outside while
maintaining privacy for anyone inside. Ceramic films hold up well over time with a
significantly longer wear life with almost no fade or discoloration (a purple hue).
2. Carbon window films: Carbon window films are known for their beautiful
appearance in color. These films are considered high-performance with a long
life and are not prone to fading over time. Carbon window films typically only
absorb up to 50% of energy sources known as UV and infrared rays. This means
half of the sun’s rays have the potential to affect anyone inside, in some cases
leading to distracting sun glares, discoloration of interiors and even harmful
conditions known as melanoma and skin cancers caused by overexposure to the
sun. Most choose carbon-based window films for their lower cost point but be
aware that some brands may be manufactured overseas with inferior adhesives,
this can lead to peeling or noticeable imperfections overtime. Another downside
to consider is the carbon window film’s inconsistent particle size. Over time you
may notice areas in the film that let more light in or less light, this can cause the
glass to appear foggy or cloudy if lower quality window film is used. While Carbon-based
films are affordable it is best to be informed and aware of the possible disadvantages.

3. Dyed window films: Dyed window films are known for their affordability. Dyed
films typically absorb only minimal energy sources known as UV and infrared
rays. These films are great if you’re primary interest is privacy or style. The dyed
films will not offer much protection from the sun and its distracting and harmful
rays. Dyed films are typically manufactured in the USA. In the US, a deep dye
process is used to manufacture films. This is a patented method of dying film by
successfully penetrating the surface of the film while forming the layers of the
final film. Deep dying is the highest-quality method of dying films. While the
majority of deep-dyed films are made in the US, there are some brands
manufactured in China and India as well. When considering a dyed film for your windows
avoid cheaply made versions by asking your distributor, “How is this product
dyed?” if they mention processes such as chip dyed, extruder dyed or dyed
polyester, you should know these are usually of Asian origin and economy
quality. If considering a deep-dyed window film ask your distributor “Is this
product Gen 3, or Gen 4?” the difference between these two deep-dyed film
versions is an improved design. Gen 3 typically only lasts an average of 3 years
and is prone to fading and discoloration. Gen 4, however, has been shown to last
the lifetime of a vehicle with no fading or discoloration.

How to choose the right shade of window film

When choosing the shade of window film right for your vehicle always consult the
regulations of your state. Every state is different regarding window tint laws. Your local
window tint installers will have full knowledge of these regulations but if you decide to
install the window tint yourself you’ll want to brush up on these laws. Window tint shade
is essentially how dark your window tint will be and the percentages listed below are
referencing the amount of light allowed to pass through.

Window tint shades:
5% – Aka, limo tint, is typically the darkest shade available and only allows 5% of light through. This shade
is generally used for extreme privacy on vehicles such as limos and back glass.
20% – This shade is commonly used for backglass and back passenger windows. It only
allows 20% of light through.
35% – This shade is generally used for front passenger windows and only allows 35%
of light through.
70% – This is a clear film used for windshields.

When choosing the right window film for your next project, always consider the cost vs
the desired results. It may be necessary to sacrifice a little more in your budget to
achieve amazing results that will last, rather than spend double the money in replacing
a lower quality product in the future. Window film is a great upgrade for your home, car
or office and saves on future energy costs. Explore your options today and find the right
window film for all your needs.