Window tinting, a practice that become popular in the ‘70s, has become more than a style statement; it’s a practical investment that offers a wide range of benefits. Even so, like any car investment, there are drawbacks that come with it that you need to consider when deciding whether it’s worth the investment. On top of that, understanding the regulations surrounding window tinting is important to ensure you don’t encounter any legal issues later on.
Window Tint Regulations To Know
In the U.S., states generally allow vehicle owners to tint their windows; however, most laws typically revolve around the visible light transmission (VLT). This refers to how much light can get through the tinted windows, and how easily someone can see through them. In most cases, 75% VLT tint is often considered too dark. For example, in Florida, 72% VLT tint on the front side windows is considered too high while in Georgia, the limit is 68%. Before tinting your windows, you should therefore consult your local law enforcement authorities or Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Once your windows get tinted, you can get a private licensed individual or a government inspector to inspect the tint and determine if you’re compliant with your state’s laws.
The Benefits of Window Tinting
One of the main reasons to get your car windows tinted is to prevent yourself from getting exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause wrinkles, melanoma and leather spots. Secondly, it’s a good way to preserve your car interior. UV rays tend to fade upholstery, making it look too old or worn out. Thirdly, you may want to tint your car windows if you want to enhance your security or increase privacy. Clear windows often expose vehicle content to criminals, so tinting them can ward off prying eyes and prevent potential window replacement costs. Lastly, window tinting can reduce the severity of injuries if you get into a car accident because they boost window strength, especially if the tint is metallized.
The Downsides To Window Tinting
Unless your sight is extraordinary, you will likely find driving at night with tinted car windows a bit more difficult than when you’re using clear windows. On top of that, it can put you and others in danger because it makes you more likely to cause an accident. Secondly, you can face legal issues if you fail to tint your windows according to your state’s regulations. These include penalties and even revoked licenses. Lastly, car window tinting, especially if it’s not done professionally, can hurt your vehicle’s style and its resale value. Some people prefer purchasing vehicles in their original form, so you may have to lower your asking price when you decide to sell it.
Ultimately, while tinting your car’s windows is a good way to improve its look and enjoy the other benefits listed above, it can lead to vision problems and other negative issues. You need to consider all these factors and decide whether to invest in a window tint or not, and if you decide to do it, leave the job to a reputable professional.
