5 Things to Consider Before Purchasing Car Window Tint in Florida

Flying Window Tinters Blogger • Nov 04, 2019

Tinting your car windows can be extremely beneficial, especially in Florida. Here are a few things to consider before purchasing car window tint in Florida.

If you love the idea of tinted windows on your car, you're living in the perfect era.

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 2019, where experts have mastered the art and science of window tinting. From the best tint percentages to the exact legal tints in Florida, there's no more guesswork involved.

Are you considering tinted windows for your new vehicle? Or are you hoping to replace outdated window tint?

Either way, there are some important factors to consider first. Here are 5 questions to ask yourself before investing in window tint in Florida.

1. What Are Your Reasons?

There are many good reasons why people want to get window tint in Florida. What are 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 cooler here in the Sunshine State? 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.

2. What Is Your Budget?

Once you've determined your reasons for wanting tinted windows, your next step is to evaluate your budget.

There are a variety of tints available to fit almost any budget. But, like most things in life, you get what you pay for.

Does your current budget allow you to get the high-quality tint you want? Or will you need to cut corners with inferior products or installation?

One thing is certain: If you try to pinch pennies with subpar products, you'll regret it. And it will cost you more, in the long run, to remove the cheap tint and replace it with a better product.

It's best to wait until your budget allows you to get the type of tint you truly want from a reputable tinting company. If you're not sure how much a tinting job will cost, contact a company in your area for pricing information.

3. What Are the Legal Tints in Florida?

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

And keep in mind that with window tint Florida, New York, or California have very different laws in place. If you spend half the year in Florida and the rest of the year in a different state, make sure your window tint is legal in both locations.

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

Non-reflective windshield tint above AS-1 line
Front side windows must allow at least 28% of light in
Back and rear windows must allow at least 15% of light in (sedans) or 6% of light in (vans and SUVs)

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

4. Which Areas Do You Want Tinted?

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

Some people hesitate to tint their windshield because they're afraid they won't be able to see as clearly while driving. That's why most companies install clear UV tint on windshields to provide protection without affecting your vision.

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!

5. Is There Existing Tint on Your Windows?

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 be aware it's on 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 on Car Window Tint in Florida

With year-round sunshine and warm temperatures, window tint in Florida is a must.

Not only does it keep your car cooler and protect its interior, but it protects your skin as well. And with tints 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? Do you have any questions or concerns you want to address first?

If you live in Florida in the Longwood and Orlando areas, fill out our free estimate form to get the answers. We look forward to hearing from you!

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