Should You Tint Your Windshield?
The popularity of tinted windows has increased significantly over the last 10 years. This is due to its stylish look, the increased privacy, and the heat reduction it provides. Windshield tints, however, have not gained as much traction as regular window tints. This can be attributed to legality issues as well as not knowing it's even an option. It's fairly common knowledge that there’s a legal limit to how dark you can make your windows and most people assume there is nothing you can do for your windshield, especially since the tint isn't very noticeable from the outside.
What Tint is The Right Tint?
There are a variety of options when it comes to windshield tints but the most common choice is 70% clear ceramic. It’s recommended because of its effectiveness and the fact that it is legal in almost all 50 states. Some states have added restrictions but in Arizona, you have nothing to worry about.
70% Clear Ceramic Tinted Windshield Benefits
You might be wondering “What's the point of getting my windshield tinted if it’s not very noticeable?”. You may not receive many style points for adding a windshield tint but it will drastically improve your driving experience. Some of the benefits of a clear ceramic tinted windshield are
Heat Rejection: Every tip you see to keep your car cool on the internet is going to tell you to use a sun shade for your windshield, which is great until you have to start driving. Tinted glass is perfect for your car, it works while you’re driving and still helps if you forget to put on your sunshade, keeping your car cooler at all times.
UV Protection: Ceramic tints block 99% of harmful UV rays (which is basically all of them) protecting your eyes and skin from the sun's damaging rays.
Glare Reduction: Forgot your sunglasses at home again? You won't have to worry about that anymore, ceramic tints help reduce the glare from the sun as well as headlights allowing you to see clearly.
Durability: Ceramic tints are more durable than other types of tints and are less likely to fade over time allowing you to enjoy the benefits of ceramic tints for years to come.
How other tints compare to ceramic
Ceramic is certainly not the only option for a windshield tint even though it is our preferred type. If you choose to go a different route you should at least know how the other 3 main tints stack up against ceramics.
Metallic: Metallic tints are also good at rejecting heat, but they can interfere with the GPS, radio, and cell phone signals. Metallic tints typically are more reflective too, making things more difficult to see at night.
Dyed: Dyed tints are generally less expensive than ceramic tints, but for good reason. Dyed tints do not offer as much heat rejection and UV reduction as ceramic. They are also more likely to fade or discolor over time.
Carbon: Carbon tint is a newer type of tint that is pretty similar to ceramic when it comes to its heat rejection and UV protection properties. However, carbon tint is more expensive and less durable than ceramic tint.
The cost
Having a ceramic windshield tint installed can vary in price depending on your car. On average it will run you a couple hundred bucks unless you choose to do it yourself. At Proview Auto Glass we offer a free windshield tint to any customer who replaces their windshield with insurance.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Ceramic windshield tint should be cleaned regularly, but how often you clean it depends on your environment. A good rule of thumb to follow is every 2-4 weeks or just clean it whenever you notice the tint getting dirty or cloudy.
How to clean your tint
- Wash your car in the shade
- Rinse the tint thoroughly with water before you clean
- Use a mild, non-ammonia-based cleaner with a soft lint-free cloth
- Wipe the tint in circular motions
- Rinse the tint off again with water
- Dry with a soft clean cloth
General Tints
Windshield tints obviously aren’t the only tints you’d need on your car. Window tints are great and accomplish all of the same things. For any tinting needs, we recommend our #1 partner, Arizona Superior Tinting.
Conclusion
There is no better tint for your windshield than the 70% clear ceramic tint. It aids your car in heat reduction keeping you cool, while protecting your body from harmful UV rays. It allows you to see better during the day without jeopardizing your vision at night. It's relatively inexpensive, especially if you have your windshield replaced through us. If you want some protection from Arizona’s excruciating sun I highly recommend exploring the idea of a tinted windshield.
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