Is Factory Tint Good Enough?
Is there a difference between factory tinted windows and ones that are tinted aftermarket? Which is better?
Diversity is the #1 window tinting shop in Victoria, and one of the most frequent questions our specialists get asked about automotive window tinting is to explain the difference between windows that come darkened out of the factory and aftermarket tinted windows.
It’s very common for modern vehicles to leave the factory with darkened side windows. Most newer models, especially SUV’s and Mini-Vans have a factory installed tint with around 20% visible light transmission (VLT) on most windows except the windshield and driver and front passenger windows. Click here to learn more about VLT.
The truth is that factory tinted glass doesn’t provide nearly the same benefit as professionally installed window film. Tint from the factory is really more of a cosmetic enhancement, and while it slightly reduces glare, factory tint doesn’t deflect heat or protect the vehicle occupants from damaging ultraviolet UVA and UVB rays.
At Diversity, we work with our customers to maintain the cosmetic aesthetics of their vehicle, and ensure they drive away safe, satisfied and looking great. Here’s how we do it:
Achieve Cosmetic Consistency
If desired, we ensure our after-market tint matches the factory tint in both shade and degree of reflectivity. At Diversity, we have a large selection of window film in a wide variety of shade levels, as well as tints that are reflective and non-reflective. In most cases a non-reflective window film will match perfectly to the factory tint on the rear glass.
Added Protection
The aftermarket professionally installed films by Diversity prevent 99.9% solar heat, and UVA and UVB from getting in through those windows. This means your vehicle will remain cooler all summer long, and have to rely less on your air conditioning system. This results in tangible fuel savings, that add up over time in your favour. Check out which tints would be best for your vehicle by clicking here.
Our aftermarket window films can also protect driver and passengers from injuries caused by glass shattering. In the event of a motor vehicle incident or a flying pebble or rock kicked up by a passing vehicle, the adhesive on aftermarket window films acts as a protective layer that holds glass together in one piece instead of shattering all over the inside of the car.
At Diversity, we have creative solutions to almost any challenge. Some SUV drivers want window film installed on the inside of their factory tinted windows, to gain double the heat rejection and UV protection without adding any reflectivity to the glass.
We Know the Limitations
We are fully up to date on the local laws concerning aftermarket window film. We follow the guidelines to ensure each tint installation meets window visible light transmission films statutes. In British Columbia, the installation of window film on a windshield is limited to a small strip across the top of the windshield, and is not permitted on front driver or passenger side windows.
We also are aware of technological advancements in the rapid growth of on-board electronics, and can reassure our customers that our aftermarket window film won’t interfere with the operation of their Bluetooth, GPS signals, radar detectors or premium satellite radio options like XM or Sirius.
Understanding of the legal and technical restrictions of window tint is a huge reason to trust a professional with your window tinting.
More Protection is Better
If you are looking for increased heat rejection in the summer, better heat retention in the winter, improved security and privacy, and 99.9% rejection of UV rays in your vehicle, aftermarket tint is the only way to go. Give us a shout today, we would love to answer your questions.