Need window tint edumacation

Haven’t had windows tinted for 17 years.
I’m sure some things have changed since then, everything else has.
Any help on types/brands of currently available film, what to look for, what to avoid is appreciated.

(tried to use the search for info but that turned up 1000 threads on everything but window tint)

 

I'm of the opinion that you should have a pro do it. Two reasons. If guaranteed (should be, if from reputable firm), you're ahead of the game, 'cause a good dealer can do a much better job than the average Joe, and you won't get the bubbles under the film in your "summer hell." And two, a professional shop will know the laws in your state. That's important, since you wouldn't want to fail a state inspection and have to take it off your windows.

 

I highly recommend ceramic tint for a plethora of reasons, you can look up the advantages of it. As far as I know any brand ceramic tint is good as long as it has the % you want.

I recently got Suntek Ceramic 20% on the front windows, 30% over the factory tint in all of the rear and a 5% windshield strip. It’s perfect for me. Visibility is still really good and stays noticeably cooler on hot days.

 

Ceramic tint is the best but really can't be utilized to it's full potential (keeping out heat) unless you do all the windows including the windshield. Just had mine done a little over a month ago. The south Louisiana heat is brutal and it truly made a difference in the cab temperature after sitting in the sun all day.

 

Next time you may find it more useful to use the keyword TINT and only searching in the titles.

https://www.tundras.com/search/2189730/?q=Tint&t=post&o=date&c[title_only]=1

 

Locally there is a place that uses a machine to cut the template for your window. I have found that comes out better than the guys who do it by hand.

My only advice is call around and ask if they trim the film by hand or if they have a machine.

Ask about what brand film they use. Any reputable tint shop should use only good quality film.

 

Thanks.
Believe me, window tint isn’t something I’m doing! It would start out shi++y and then get worse.

In AZ, we don’t have vehicle inspections. There’s limits on what you can have on the windshield and front sides (reflective limits too) but limo or black spray paint for that matter on the back windows and rear is fine.
(friend bought an auction truck that actually had a rattle can job on the camper windows - smuggler rig)

Edit to add: @Scuba, thanks for the search tip. I ended up down a 2 hour rabbit hole earlier!

 

I had a car tinted by a pro using Llumar brand tint when I was in FL. That tint job was effective, & lasted well over a decade, beyond my keeping track of the car. You do have to avoid certain window cleaners or your tint will turn purple, but a pro will instruct you about that.

 

I had no clue there was "clear" tint to provide solar protection. Suddenly tinting my windscreen is possible! (north PoPo don't like tinted).

from LLumar website:
This may come as a surprise to many people, but window film doesn’t have to be dark to perform. It can be almost invisible — giving you all the benefits of blocking harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and heat, without the look of traditional dark window tint. Clear film also improves the solar performance of factory privacy glass without changing its appearance.

 

Pro Ceramic tint. You will wonder how you lived without it. It was even nicer because I got mine installed in the middle of June. I felt the difference immediately. The darker windows are nice, but you can feel the difference in the actual heat radiating through your windows. Now that it is getting cooler, you may not notice it so much, but it works and is totally worth the money. Probably one of the best mods you can make to any vehicle. Also, if you “can” tint your windshield in your state, pay the extra money and get it done.

 

Definitely have a pro do it. I'm getting ceramic on my M3 today. Decided on 35% tint all the around, and I'm doing 60% on the front windshield. I have full black leather interior. I like supporting small business owners, People support my small business, so why not?

 

I had a guy do llumar ctx ceramic on the side windows and air 80 on the windshield and moonroof. I'm very happy with it. It keeps the heat out. The thing about ceramic is it does weird things if you have polarized sunglasses. I think I have to get non polarized glasses. Otherwise, I like it.

 

Ceramic tint. DO THE WINDSHIELD.

 

I've been installing for quite a few years now. Happy to answer any questions you might have regarding film brands or anything else tint related.

If it's in your budget, definitely spring for a ceramic film and do the windshield if possible. These Tundras aren't the easiest to hand cut, but definitely doable for someone with experience. Plotter vs hand cut shouldn't be a deciding factor.

My Tundra is wrapped in 20% Global QDP Cermaic and I love it!

 

Is the ceramic tint something that impregnates the surface of the glass rather than a film that adheres?

Cuz I'll buy that shiznit. I ain't hearing the filmz.

 

No it is still a film. I have Rayno Phamtom S9.

 

The windshield is probably not going to happen. Too many rocks flying around Phx and this one is already halfway sandblasted.
My last windshield replacement made it all the way to Wyoming and back with zero damage. 3 days after getting home it got tagged with a pebble and instantly had a 10” crack.
Parked I always have my sun shade up, driving I just turn up the AC.
Thanks for the info guys. Got a couple of places that I’m going to get estimates from.