To tint or not to tint?

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The first attempt at window tinting was with spray paint during World War II. Then, in the 1960s, the first commercial window tints appeared. They were dyed dark purple, bubbled in the sun, and did almost nothing to protect the car's interior.

 

Welcome to 2021, where experts have mastered the art and science of window tinting. From the best tint percentages to the exact legal tints in each area, there's no more guesswork involved.

 

Whether you are looking to tint the windows of a new vehicle or replace tint you already have, there are some important factors to consider first. 

 

What is your why?

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There are many good reasons why people want to get window tint in Washington. What is yours?

 

For some, it's purely aesthetics. They love the look of tinted windows and value the privacy for themselves, their passengers, and their belongings.

 

What about keeping your car cool? If you park your car in direct sun on a hot day, the interior temperature can climb as high as 172 degrees.

 

Window tint can keep your car's interior cooler on those hot summer days. No more blasting the AC for 10 minutes before you can comfortably get into your vehicle!

 

All that heat and sunlight does more than just make your car hot. Those harmful ultraviolet rays can also cause fading, cracking, and peeling throughout your car's interior.

 

Speaking of UV rays, did you know that you get 20 times more UV exposure on the left side of your face? And that 74% of all melanoma cancers appear on the left side of the body?

 

Why? Because that side of your body gets more sun exposure while you're driving. The more hours you drive, the higher your risk of sun damage to your skin (including cancer).

 

Window tint not only keeps your car's interior safer, but it keeps you safer too! More than an aesthetic addition to your vehicle, it's also an investment in your health.

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Is window tint legal in Washington?

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Your next important consideration is what tint percentage is legal. Just because you love the look of blacked-out windows doesn't mean the law allows it!

 

With that said, what's legally allowed in the state of Washington?

• Non-reflective windshield tint above AS-1 line

• Front side windows must allow at least 35% of light in

• Back and rear windows must allow at least 20% of light in (sedans) or 5% of light in (vans, trucks and SUVs)

 

If this sounds a little confusing, don't worry. We will be able to explain the laws and show examples of different tint percentages.

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Which areas do you want tinted?

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Depending on your budget and preferences, you may not need to get every window in your car tinted.

 

For the rest of your windows, you can choose a tint that's completely clear or very dark (up to the legal limit in your state). Some people only tint their front side windows, while others choose to tint everywhere.

 

There's no right or wrong answer—it's just a matter of choosing which option is right for you!

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Is your car already tinted?

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A final consideration is whether there's already tint installed on your car windows.

 

Some newer cars come with factory-installed clear tint on the windows. In some cases, you may not even realize it's there.

 

Applying window tint to previously tinted windows will give much darker results. This could unwittingly put you over the legal limit for your state.

 

For the same reasons, if you previously had a company install window tint, you'll need to get it removed before purchasing new tint.

 

If you have any concerns or you're not sure what's already on your vehicle, consult with a local tinting company for more advice.

 

Final thoughts.

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Not only does it keep your car cooler and protect its interior, but it protects your skin as well. With tint options ranging from invisible to almost impenetrable, there's a tint percentage that's perfect for everyone. 

 

Are you ready to add window tint to your vehicle? Let's chat!