Tints
Visit Our Car Window Tinting Shop
The sun isn’t getting any cooler, so trying to drive through Boston traffic without having car window tinting done is an endless battle to beat the heat. Window tints are a great way to alleviate this problem as they cut down on solar heat and damage UV rays . For the privacy-conscious, window tints can make it much harder for onlookers to see inside.
Types Of Car Window Tints
If you are planning for window tinting in Boston, you’ll most certainly find a large assortment of car tints available. While you may know about the various colors and shades, you may not know much about the different materials. Below we outline most of the tints available for car window tinting, from the simplest to the most sophisticated.
Dyed Window Tint
Dyed film is the most common car window tinting option in Boston. This car tint film has the most straightforward construction while providing great aesthetic value. The film comprises three layers: an adhesive, a dyed layer, and a protective top coat. The dyed layer is highly customizable. While most drivers will choose a shade of black, many color options are available.
From a practical standpoint, dyed window film can help block sunlight and the glare of headlights at night.
However, these films do not have any UV protection. As such, they still let in solar heat and UV rays. Additionally, since these tints don’t have inherent UV protection, the EV rays can eventually turn the black dye into a purple hue. With UV damage, there is also a risk of eventual delamination, presenting a need for window tint removal .
That being said, dyed window tints are the most common and excellent value for anyone in the Boston area.
Metalized window tints, also known as reflective window film, modify the construction of dyed window tints with an added metalized layer. Placed between the protective and adhesive layers, this layer of metallic particles helps reflect solar heat and UV rays and strengthen the overall film, allowing it to stand up better to impacts on the road. UV protection also increases its durability and lifespan.
Since the car window tint is made up of metallic particles, the tint has a reflective look. Some love the look, while others may not be fans. Studies indicate that the metallic particles within the film can interfere with wireless signals.
Metalized Window Tint
Carbon Window Tint
For those that want a proper limo tint, it’s hard to go wrong with carbon window tints. Unlike the previous tints, these films are made of multiple layers of carbon fiber particles. These particles allow the film to have a unique sleek matte black appearance. Since there is no dyed layer in the construction, carbon window tints have no risk of fading, making them one of the most durable options available. Additionally, its ability to block out solar heat and UV rays is more significant than hybrid window tints.
Ceramic window tints are the best window tints available on the market today. Following the construction principles of metalized window tints, these tints use ceramic particles instead of metalized particles. As such, they are both nonmetallic and nonconductive.
The properties of these layers allow them to display excellent solar heat-absorbing qualities. Since these tints absorb heat, you can opt for much lighter hues and experience superior solar reflection. Some drivers will even opt for a clear ceramic window tint to mitigate sunlight without modifying the stock window shade. Thanks to their nonconductive nature, there are also no issues with signal interference.
Ceramic Window Tint
Choosing The Proper Automotive Window Tint Level
Along with the variety of window tinting materials, there are a variety of window tint shades to choose from. The percentage represents the tint strength. The lower the percentage, the darker the tint. Typically, tint levels are offered at intervals of 5 or 10.
- 90% Window Tint. This tint level is almost as clear as untinted windows. However, you can still see benefits with reduced glare and UV penetration. This is especially true if you choose ceramic window tint.
- 50% Window Tint. This is an excellent middle ground in terms of darkness. At 50%, you can enjoy a sleek exterior look without worrying about decreased nighttime visibility.
- 35% Window Tint. This will typically be the legal limit if you live in a state with tint limits, such as Massachusetts.
- 5% Window Tint. Also known as slime tints, a 5% window tint almost wholly blacks out your windows. This level of tinting is illegal almost everywhere. Driving at night with tints this dark is borderline impossible and poses a significant risk.
Windows To Tint On A Car
Depending on your preference, each window can have its tint level. Additionally, you may opt not to tint every window in your car.
The side and rear windows are the most common areas to tint. They provide cooling in the cabin and a better exterior aesthetic without compromising your forward visibility.
Side & Rear Windows
Windshield
The windshield is a particular case. Legally, you are not allowed to fully tint your windshield due to concerns of worsened low-light visibility. The most one can tint the very top of the windshield down to what is known as the AS1 line.
The AS1 line is roughly six inches down from the top of your windshield. This space is approximately the amount of windshield that your sun visor covers. With the sun high, there can still be benefits from this tint.
To complete the look, you may also consider headlight and taillight tinting . Your exterior lights can enjoy the same benefits that window tints give. Aside from the aesthetic changes, the additional film can help protect against scratches and damaging UV rays. In certain circumstances, applying a tint, such as a yellow tint, on your fog lights can also improve visibility.
Headlights & Taillights
Are Tinted Windows Illegal In Massachusetts
The darkest window tint allowable will be different depending on the state. States will have other laws defining the maximum darkness allowed for your windshield, side, and rear windows. States define their limits with a particular VLT (Visible Light Transmission) rating. The VLT describes how much light passes through the tint. The higher the percentage, the more light passes through. In Massachusetts, the limits are as follows.
- Windshield. A non-reflective windshield tint can be placed along the top six inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows. The legal limit for front window tints is 35%.
- Back Side Windows. The legal limit for back-side window tints is 35%.
- Rear Window. The legal window tint percentage for the rear window is 35%. The legal limit changes for vehicles such as SUVs and Minivans, which allow for a darker tint of 20% on the back window.
If you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to light, you can apply for a waiver from the State of Massachusetts that will allow you darker car window tints.
The Best Professional Window Tinting Service in Boston
ProCarSound&Security is the best place to go for tinted windows in Massachusetts. Our team takes great care in applying your window tints to ensure longevity and a seamless look. While you’re here, why not consider upgrading your car’s sound system?
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an installation, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Official Partner
Contact us
Need to schedule your installation or would you like to speak with our team? Use the form below, we will contact you as soon as possible.
