07/14/2023
What is a Factory Vehicle Tint?
Factory window tint is typically tinted glass. In the industry, we actually just call it privacy glass. This tinted glass has a pigment inside of the glass which cannot be removed unless you want to replace your entire window. Typically, factory tints will come in a 15 – 30% visible light transmission (VLT) rating. This factory tint is there to improve privacy for vehicle occupants, add a little style, and nothing more.
How is Factory Window Tint Different from Aftermarket Window Tint Film?
The main difference between factory window tint and an aftermarket window film is that an aftermarket window film is better in every category. Seriously, aftermarket window film offers better privacy, UV ray filtering, temperature control, style, and more. Functionally, your factory window tint is part of the glass whereas vehicle window films are applied over top existing glass.
Why Would I Want an Aftermarket Window Film Applied?
Since factory window tints check off two of the main boxes for people—style and privacy—most folks don’t see a need for more. This brings us to the title of this post: factory vehicle tints do not protect against UV rays. You would want an aftermarket window film because it will protect you and your passengers against harmful UV rays in addition to making your vehicle’s interior more comfortable.
Why Should I Worry About Ultraviolet or UV Rays?
Ultraviolet rays (UV Rays for short) are the dangerous part of sun light. Not only do they cause sunburn, UV ray exposure is proven to cause skin cancer as well as damage to your vehicle’s upholstery. This upholstery damage is called sun fading and it depreciates the value of your vehicle over time.
Can I Add a Window Film Over Factory Window Tint?
This is a great question, and the answer varies from state to state. It’s important to know your state’s tint laws so you can best know what you’re getting into. Tint laws are based on the visible light transmission (LVT) value of your windows. This means the amount of visible light which passed through the window. The lower the number, the darker the tint. So, you can add window film over factory tinted windows, but you will need to be sure you are upholding your state’s tint laws.
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