The Differences Between Factory-Tinted Glass and Aftermarket Window Tint

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Although factory-tinted glass and aftermarket tint may be similar in appearance, they’re very different in their materials, manufacturing procedures and installation processes. These differences give automotive window tinting film additional benefits that factory tint does not provide. Let’s talk more about the differences so you can decide which option is right for you or if you’d like an aftermarket auto tint on top of your factory tint. 

Materials and Manufacturing Processes

The two tints are made from different materials and have a very different manufacturing process. 

Factory-tinted glass contains dyes and pigments that are mixed into the glass itself during manufacturing. These additives darken the glass color and prevent some visible light from passing through the windows.

Aftermarket window tint is a product applied to the window made from multiple layers of polyester film. This multilayer construction includes an adhesive coating, layers containing metal particles, dyes and pigments, and a final layer that provides scratch resistance. Different types and quantities of metals and dyes added to the internal layers impact the tint’s color, light transference and reflective properties of the film.

Automotive Tint

Aftermarket Tint Installation

Because the dyes and pigments are inside glass with factory tint, there are no installation procedures after the window is manufactured and installed in the vehicle. In contrast, aftermarket tinted film will be applied to the interior surface of the vehicle’s windows after the car has been manufactured and sold.

First, an automotive film professional cuts the tint to match the dimensions of the vehicle’s window openings. The interior side of the glass is cleaned to ensure the film will not trap any dirt or dust particles beneath it, and then the installer sprays solvents onto the glass. These solvents react with the adhesive coating on the film, allowing the installer to move the film into place before the adhesive cures.

Automotive Window Tint Removal

It is not possible to remove factory tint from a car window because the dyes and pigments are mixed inside the glass. Aftermarket tinting film can be removed from the glass by using tools to peel the film and solvents to break down the adhesive coating.

Professional Installations
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For best results, work with a window tinting professional when removing the film. Although tint installation and removal can sometimes be a project for advanced do-it-yourselfers, automotive tinting companies have the ideal facilities, equipment and chemicals for a professional result. These businesses also know and understand the laws for your state and will help you select a tint that meets your needs and satisfies the legal standards. Tinting films available for DIY applications are often inferior to the products available from professional tinting manufacturers like Madico®, Inc.

Protection From Ultraviolet Rays and Solar Energy

Protection From Ultraviolet Rays and Solar Energy

To satisfy the broad range of state tinting laws, auto manufacturers typically only place factory-tinted glass in the vehicle’s rear windows. While this tint filters visible light, it does not provide the same level of protection from ultraviolet rays as aftermarket tint. 

Most Americans are unaware of the amount of UV light exposure they get while in their cars, especially because factory-tinted windows appear to let in less sunlight. Nearly 53% of skin cancers in American patients occur on the left side of the body — the driver’s side. But factory-tinted windows are primarily for aesthetics, visual comfort and privacy.

While glass on its own can block most UVB rays — the solar energy responsible for sunburn — it cannot block UVA rays — the light responsible for skin tanning, skin aging and wrinkles. Both types of UV rays contribute to skin cancer, and factory-tinted glass does not provide broad-spectrum UV protection or keep your car’s interior cool. That’s why The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends Madico automotive window films to block UV rays and protect your skin.

Adding auto window tint film to your vehicle’s front and rear windows reduces the volume of harmful UV rays that enter the car. Most aftermarket tinted window films block 99% of the sun’s harmful UV rays. This protection creates a safer environment for riders and reduces sun damage and fading of the car’s upholstery and dash.

In states where tinted glass is not allowed on the windshield, a professional window tinting company can install an optically clear film such as ClearPlex® by Madico. This solution lets drivers achieve complete UV protection on all four sides of the vehicle.

Aftermarket film also reflects and absorbs the sun’s solar energy from infrared light. When the sun’s energy goes unchecked, the temperature inside a vehicle can drastically increase while the car sits idle in the sun. Factory-tinted glass does little to reduce heat gain inside the car, while aftermarket film reflects the infrared energy in sunlight. 

Infrared protection from aftermarket tinting maintains a more comfortable temperature inside the car and can even let you turn down your air conditioning to save on gas. Dyed glass by itself cannot provide this added temperature control.

Shattered Glass Protection

Although factory-tinted glass is tempered and strengthened to increase durability, it provides little protection when the glass breaks. An accident may send pieces of broken glass flying into the vehicle. When you install aftermarket window film, the adhesive and protective polyester layers work to hold shattered glass in place, reducing the chances of bodily injury for passengers. Although factory tinted glass is tempered and strengthened to increase durability, it provides little protection when the glass breaks. Typically resulting in pieces of broken glass flying into the vehicle during an accident or break-in. On the other hand, the adhesive and protective layers of aftermarket window film work to hold broken glass in place, reducing the chances of bodily injury for passengers.

Choose Madico for Your Aftermarket Window Tint

Madico window films feature the highest-quality laminates, adhesives and color-stable dyes. They are covered under our manufacturer’s warranty in North America for as long as you own your vehicle. Our products are guaranteed not to fade, crack, bubble or yellow while under warranty.

We let you achieve a darker tint than your factory tinting, with attractive colors like Charcool by Madico and Black Pearl by Madico. You’ll gain the aesthetic qualities and enhanced privacy of darkened windows while complying with your state’s automotive tinting laws. 

Our auto window tints also offer additional protection from heat gain, retain shattered glass, slow interior fading and reduce glare. Plus, they come with The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation for UV protection you can trust. If you choose one of our spectrally selective nano-ceramic car window tints, you’ll gain advanced infrared protection that keeps your car cool.

Browse our selection of automotive window tints and contact your nearest Madico dealer for more information or to upgrade your window tint today.

   

Top 5 Benefits of Having Your Car Windows Tinted

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You take care of your car’s engine with regular tune-ups and maintenance, but have you thought about the care of your car’s windows? You may think of window film, also called window tint, as just an aesthetic enhancement, but it also provides long-lasting functional benefits to protect you and your vehicle.

Automotive Film

1. Tinting Your Windows Can Keep Car Upholstery From Fading

Fade ReductionYour car is a valuable asset that you want to last as long as possible. Having window tinting professionally installed on your vehicle is a great way to protect your investment. While using a windshield sun protector or parking your car in the shade can temporarily reduce sun damage, window film consistently blocks harsh sunshine that can fade upholstery and discolor leather and vinyl. It protects car interiors from cracking and warping to keep your car looking newer longer. Window tinting also blocks windshield glare to decrease eye fatigue from direct sun and bright nighttime headlights.

Window film blocks harsh sunshine that can fade upholstery and discolor leather and vinyl

2. Window Tint Blocks Harmful UV Rays

UV Ray BlockageCar window tinting can block up to 99% of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays that can accelerate skin aging and cause skin cancer. Ultraviolet light, or UV rays as they are commonly called, is a form of electromagnetic radiation. Prolonged exposure results in damage to the skin such as skin burns, darkening of the skin, premature aging and skin cancer. Even clear window film or a light tint offers UV protection that can block out both damaging UVA and UVB rays. Research shows that 53% of skin cancers in the U.S. occur on the left side of the body, which correlates to the driver’s side of a car. For people who drive for extended periods of time, window film protection, such as clear UV car window tint, provides a critical advantage to safeguard against this risk.

Car window tinting can block up to 99% of the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays

3. Tinted Car Windows Can Help with Solar Heat Rejection

Solar Heat RejectionIf you’ve battled finding the right level of air conditioning for all of your passengers, window tinting can help resolve that dilemma. Depending on the grade, automotive window film can block anywhere from 35-65% of the solar heat that builds up in a car. You can balance climate and comfort for everyone and cut down on fuel consumption from air conditioning overuse.

Window film can block anywhere from 35-65% of the solar heat that builds up in a car

4. Window Film Offers Shattered Glass Protection

Shattered Glass ProtectionThe safety benefits of installing window film on your car cannot be underestimated. Window film is designed to keep glass from shattering if an object hits it. In the event of a car accident, passengers are protected from flying glass shards and from being ejected through windows. Additionally, thieves will find it difficult to break through tinted glass and get into your car.

In the event of a car accident, passengers are protected from flying glass shards and from being ejected through windows.

5. Window Tint Provides Better Privacy and Security

Privacy and SecurityWindow tinting comes in a wide range of shading, from car blackout window film to lighter shades, to provide a level of privacy for you and your passengers as you go down the road. When you park the car, you can walk away and know that prying eyes cannot see your valuables inside.

The benefits of installing window tint include more than simply improving the look of your car. It can add to your peace of mind when you want to protect your vehicle and those who travel with you.

For information on tint laws in the United States and Canada, refer to the International Window Film Association chart here. Consult an authorized Madico window film dealer to find the window film most appropriate to fit your automotive needs.

Window tinting provides a level of privacy for you and for your passengers as you go down the road.

Protect Your Car with Madico Automotive Window Tint

Our long-lasting automotive window films are specifically designed to provide fade and UV protection, temperature control, shattered glass protection, improved safety and security and more. To find the film that’s best for you, check out our film selector tool or speak with a local dealer today.

Find a Dealer View The Tint Simulator

Updated: 09/26/2019

   

Have It Made in the Shade: Shopping Tips for Auto Tint

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If you’re considering tinting your car windows, you probably know about some of the many benefits, such as reduction of heat and glare. But where do you begin when it comes to choosing the right auto window film and installer?

Choosing Window Film

Choosing Window FilmYou may want to start with the window film and then choose your installer, because different installers carry different types of window film. Window film that blocks damaging UV rays is a popular choice and it can actually help you lower your carbon footprint. Another thing to look for in window film is if it’s covered under a warranty. This speaks to the quality of the film and if something does go wrong, you won’t lose any money. All of Madico’s window films are covered by a warranty and many are covered by a lifetime warranty. You’ll also want to choose a shade. Today’s technology has delivered a range of shade choices from dark to extremely light, while still delivering all of the benefits. Take a look at this tint simulator to visualize how dark or light you can go. You’ll also want to know the window tinting laws in your state, but a good installer should also be familiar with these rules.

Choosing an Installer

Choosing an InstallerLike choosing any business, one of the best ways to make your decision is by asking others who they recommend. You can also view online referrals and rankings on various sites. Once you’ve identified some credible options, ask the installer how long he or she has been in business at their current location. The longer the better as longevity is a sign that they offer good quality and service at fair prices. You’ll also want to see samples of their work. This article has detailed illustrations that show you what to look for.

Don’t DIY

Don’t DIYYou may be tempted to save some money and try a do-it-yourself kit, but there are several reasons why it’s smart to go with a professional window tinting company. Check out this article on Angie’s List that explains why.

To find a Madico Window Films dealer in your area, call 888-887-2022 or email windowfilm@madicomain.wpengine.com.

   

Window Film for Your Vehicle (Infographic)

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Madico Adds New Infographic

 

As seen in the “Window Film in Your Community” animated video and infographic, there are multiple uses for window film.

 

Tinting your vehicle’s windows can block up to 99% of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays and reject up to 92% of the solar heat that builds up in your car. It also adds an extra level of protection in case of an accident, holding shattered glass together.

 

Whether you’re considering window film for safety, heat reduction, or aesthetic purposes, this new “Window Film for Your Vehicle” infographic explains how window film can benefit your vehicle.

 

Window-Film-For-Your-Vehicle-Infographic

 

Window film is an unsung protector of your car, and while it might not always be noticeable, know that it is working. Staying cool, protecting yourself and the passengers in your car, as well as giving your vehicle a unique customized style are just some of the many benefits associated with window film for your vehicle.

 

Download the “Window Film for Your Vehicle” infographic PDF here.

   

Exploring the Car Tinting Process

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If you’ve just booked an appointment to have your car windows tinted or are considering it, you’ve probably wondered how exactly your installer will apply the film to the glass. It’s an entirely different process from factory tinting, like your car’s original manufacturer might’ve done.

Every make and model is unique, and film installers have to cut their film to the precise shape of your car windows and ensure it fits perfectly along the slight curve of the glass. It’s a complicated process. Installers go through months of training before they’re ready to give your ride the professional window tint installation it deserves.

How It All Happens

You did your research and made an appointment to have your car tinted by a reputable installer. Now, you may be wondering, “What exactly is going to be happening to my vehicle while I sit in the tint shop’s waiting room?”

While most window tint installations follow the same basic process, individual installers often have their own unique methods of installing automotive tints, and their techniques may differ from this overview. Nevertheless, the installation technique we describe here is an excellent example of what’s going on behind the scenes when you take your car to a professional window tinter. 

Here’s how a professional installs window tints.

Automotive Films

1. Tinting Environment

When you arrive at the tinting shop, a technician will take your car to a wind- and dust-free space, usually a large indoor garage or an interior bay. Professional window glaze dealers regularly vacuum and clean this space to prevent contaminants from wedging themselves between the adhesive and the glass.

2. Prepping the Windows

The tinting professionals will remove dirt and debris and prep your car’s windows on both sides with a solution of soap and water, a sponge and a squeegee. On the exterior side, the installer will also clean off the area on the door, hood or trunk just below the window. While prepping the film, they will move it below the window, so having a clean surface to work with is critical.

After wiping down the exterior and interior surface of the window, many installers give extra attention to the inner surface of the window, where the film will ultimately be installed. They’ll spray the window down with soapy water again and use a razor blade to scrape off any dirt and debris. On new cars, this step also helps remove any sticker glue residue.

3. Measuring & Cutting

The installer will measure your car’s windows and cut pieces of film from a master roll to fit those measurements. The film is then laid out on the exterior surface of the car window, where it’s cut down more precisely. First, the installer ensures the bottom edge of the sheet is perfectly straight and aligned with the window. If it’s not, they’ll cut the edge with a blade.

Then, the professional installer cuts the film to the unique shape of the left and right sides of the window. They’ll leave the top edge uncut for now.

Next, installers use a heat gun to heat-shrink the film. This step contours the flat sheet so it curves to the glass. Usually, the installer starts from the top and moves down, smoothing out irregularities in the sheet with a flat plastic scraper. Note that the heat guns for window glazing emit a low heat that doesn’t harm the vehicle.

After it’s perfectly smooth, the window film installer cuts the top edge of the material by rolling down the window slightly so they can align the blade with the top edge.

4. Peel Board

Once they’ve cut the film to the same shape as the window, installers will remove it and positionit on a pane of glass known as a “peel board” to refine the edges and carve out the finer details. One critical step to take during this stage of the process is to round out the corners. By rounding out the sharp edges on the corners, the installer ensures the film will not get caught or peel when the window rolls up and down.

The installer often removes the release liner during this step, too.

5. Installation

Once the film is properly sized and shaped, it’s time to install it onto the window’s interior surface. First, the tinting professional sprays soapy water onto the window alongside the film itself. This solution activates the film’s adhesive and allows the sheet to glide along the glass until it’s correctly positioned.

Then, if they haven’t already, the installer peels off the release linerand applies the film to the window, adhesive side down. They’ll use a squeegee to push out any excess solution under the film and press the film firmly to the glass to activate the adhesive that secures it to the window.

The installer also uses specialized plastic scrapers in different shapes to remove any bubbles, smooth out the edges and ensure the film is correctly inserted into the window’s rubber lining. After the material is in place, they may also use the heat gun again to help dry the soapy water and further contour the film to the curve of the window.

6. Final Inspection

Lastly, the installers will take a critical eye to their work. They examine the window from both the outside and the inside to identify and smooth out any imperfections. They can use specialized scrapers to work out any bubbles or blemishes before the film’s adhesive dries.

7. Dry Time

Once the tint job is complete, the installer will return your car and remind you to let the film dry for three days before you roll down your vehicle’s windows. Depending on the film type and the weather conditions, it can take up to three weeks for the adhesive to completely cure. During this time, you may notice a hazy appearance or tiny water bubbles. That’s normal and will go away once the adhesive dries.

You’ll experience the benefits of your car’s newly tinted windows right away. Enjoy your drive home, free from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, annoying glare and uncomfortable heat!

Find a Dealer

Book Your Car Window Tinting Appointment With a Madico Dealer

Once you know everything that goes into a proper tinted window glaze application, it’s easy to see the benefit of working with an experienced professional. Madico dealers are masterful installers who treat automotive window tinting film application as a true craft. When you choose a Madico dealer, you also know that your tint will last for years to come. All Madico films come with a manufacturer’s warranty in North America, so you can have peace of mind with your purchase.

Experience all that window film has to offer — from cooler temperatures and reduced glare to slowed upholstery fading and UV protection. Browse our selection of automotive window film to choose your favorite shade. To schedule an appointment to have tinted window glaze installed, contact your nearest Madico dealer today.

Book Your Car Window Tinting Appointment With a Madico Dealer