The Different Window Tint Films
Been looking into getting your windows tinted? Come across some terms you're not familiar with? We're here to help break down the differences between film types; Dyed, Metallized, Ceramic, and Carbon.
Dyed Window Tint Film
Pretty much what it sounds like, a film that contains a layer of colored dye underneath the protective top coat.
This film uses the dye to absorb solar heat from light rays providing some heat rejection. Unfortunately, dyed films are not as color stable as some other films and fade over time from UV exposure. This causes the black film to turn more of a purple color and its heat rejection power also diminishes.
While it does change the appearance of the vehicle, the heat-rejection is not particularly high. Most people choose this film because of its affordability and appearance, rather than its performance.
Metallized Window Tint Film
This type of film is created by embedding metallic particles into the film layers.
These metallic particles reflect heat and light rays away from your vehicle and give off a shiny, reflective appearance. The metal elements within the film also strengthen the window making it more shatter and scratch resistant. Metallized films offer better heat rejection than dyed films and are less prone to color fading.
A downside to this film is the metallic properties often interfere with technology in the vehicle. Your GPS could be unusable, you could lose cell phone reception, and it can also cause radio reception to give out.
Ceramic Window Tint Film
This film does not contain any metal or dye but contains ceramic particles and is both nonconductive and nonmetallic.
The ceramic elements reflect and reduce solar heat and UV rays from entering the car. While it reflects and absorbs high levels of light, it also allows for maximum visibility, resists glare and fading, and is highly shatter-proof.
This film has higher heat rejection than both dyed and metallized films and truly is a performance film with a much higher price tag.
Carbon Window Tint Film
This film is comprised of micro-layers of carbon that block about 40% of infrared light from entering the vehicle.
This tint protects upholstery and leather from fading due to its infrared blocking properties. Carbon layers also keep the vehicle cool, meaning you won’t need to rely on your air conditioning so much during those hot summer months.
Carbon films have a dark matte finish, and they won’t fade over time, making them the more durable and reliable film on the market.
This type of film boasts better heat rejection and better UV ray protection than others, and combines a sleek dark look with high performance qualities.
Get It Installed
Here at Columbus Car Audio we offer 4 different films, a dyed film and 3 varying Carbon films that rival most Ceramic films on the market. Visit HERE to see the window tint films we carry or contact us today for more info and a quote for your car!
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