The car can get very hot and uncomfortable, especially in the summer months. Don’t just suffer, or turn the air conditioning up higher. Make your car a more comfortable place by tinting the windows. Here’s what you need to know.

What is car window tinting?

Car window tinting is where you apply a thin, dark film or layer of window film to the windows of a vehicle. This film can be made from a few different materials, such as polyester, dyes, metals or even ceramics, and it’s designed to adhere to the interior side of the car's windows.

The main reason to get car window tinting is to reduce the amount of sunlight and heat that enters the inside of the vehicle. This can make driving more comfortable during hot days and reduce glare for drivers, while also protecting the car’s interior from UV rays that can cause fading and damage to the dashboard and seats.

In addition to providing shade and heat protection, car window tinting gives you more privacy by limiting the visibility of the interior from the outside. It can also just make your car look nicer, giving it a sleek and stylish appearance. Beyond these benefits, window tinting can also improve safety by holding shattered glass together in the event of a crash, reducing the risk of injury from broken glass shards.

How are car windows tinted professionally?

Professional car window tinting involves several skilful steps to ensure the even application of the window film. Here's how car windows are tinted professionally:

1. Cleaning and preparation: The first step is to thoroughly clean the interior of the windows to remove any dust or smudges. This creates a clean, smooth surface for the film to stick to.
2. Pre-cutting the film: The window film is precut using a template that matches your car’s specific make and model. This template is designed to fit the windows precisely.
3. Film application: Your tinting professional will carefully apply the film to the interior side of the window. A solution of water and mild soap is usually sprayed onto the window to activate the adhesive on the film. The film is then positioned and smoothed out to remove any air bubbles or wrinkles.
4. Squeegeeing: A squeegee or other instrument will be used to press the film against the window and remove excess moisture and air bubbles.
5. Trimming: Any excess film is trimmed away to leave a clean edge that aligns with the window's contours.
6. Drying and curing: The car is often left in a controlled environment, like a heated garage, to allow the adhesive to cure and the film to dry completely. This process typically takes a day or two.

What are the benefits of car window tinting?

• Heat reduction: Tinted windows can significantly reduce the amount of heat that enters your vehicle, making it more comfortable for passengers and reducing the need for excessive air conditioning which can eat into your petrol.
• UV protection: Window film blocks a significant portion of harmful UV rays, protecting passengers from potential skin damage and minimising interior fading.
• Glare reduction: They will also reduce the amount of glare from sunlight and headlights to improve visibility and reduce eye strain for the driver.
• Privacy and security: Tinted windows provide much more privacy for those inside, and can also deter prying eyes and potential theft.
• Aesthetics: Car window tinting enhances the appearance of the vehicle, and it can be customised to match your colour and style preferences.
• Fuel efficiency: By reducing the need for air conditioning in hot Australian summers, car window tinting can actually lead to improved fuel efficiency.
• Safety: In the event of an accident, the window film can prevent shattered glass from scattering and causing injury to passengers.

DIY vs professional car window tinting: Pros and cons

DIY car window tinting kits are available for anyone who thinks themselves skilled enough to tackle the task. The pros of DIY tinting include potential cost savings and the satisfaction of completing the project by yourself. But there are some big cons as well. DIY tinting requires a high level of skill to achieve a professional-quality result, and mistakes can lead to uneven tint, air bubbles and peeling. You’ve probably seen this at times while on the road! It may also void the manufacturer's warranty on the windows if not applied correctly.

Professional car window tinting, on the other hand, offers several advantages. Trained technicians have the experience and tools to ensure a flawless and even application of the tint. They can also help you choose the appropriate shade to comply with state or territory requirements. Professional installations are typically backed by warranties as well, which can give you peace of mind in their work.

How much does car window tinting cost?

The biggest factors that can influence the cost of car window tinting are the film you’ll be using and the type of car (and size) it will be applied to.

According to The Car Tinting Man, window tinting a two-door ute starts at $225, whereas a more expensive film on a large vehicle like a 4WD or people mover will cost you up to $495.

Having car window tinting installed

To get the best possible finish, you should have your car window tinting installed by a qualified professional. They will ensure that the tint is applied evenly and free of bubbles. The installer will also be able to advise you on how dark your car’s tint should be and also make sure that the tint is within legal guidelines (car tinting can only be so dark). Ensure that you get a quote before any work is commenced, and ask if your window tint comes with any warranties. If it does, check what the warranty covers.

Here are some questions to ask a car window tinter before hiring them:

1. Are you qualified and insured for car window tinting services?
2. What types of window film do you apply, and can you explain the differences in terms of shading, UV protection, etc?
3. Can you provide pictures from previous car window tinting projects you’ve done?
4. Are your window films compliant with local state/territory requirements?
5. Do you offer any warranties or guarantees for your work?