The Benefits of Calling a Professional Auto Window Tinting Service

When it comes to tinting your car's windows, don't try and do it yourself! Here are the benefits of using a professional auto window tinting service.

When you're looking for an affordable way to upgrade your car and improve your driving experience, it makes sense to choose auto window tinting. Cutting down the glare, blocking UV rays, and increasing privacy are just some of the reasons to consider vehicle window tinting. 

Theoretically, you can save more money by installing window tint film yourself-but should you? In the age of DIY, it's important to recognize your own limits.

The truth is that it's hard to beat hiring a professional auto window tinting service. If you're still on the fence, you're in the right place.

Read on to learn the benefits of calling a professional auto window tinting service rather than installing window tint on your own.

High-Quality Window Tint Options

There are plenty of window films that you can purchase online for DIY installation, but that doesn't mean that you're getting the best variety. In fact, high-quality companies like LLumar work exclusively with licensed retailers, meaning that you can only get access to LLumar film when you work with the pros. 

Plus, a professional can walk you through the different types of window tint films to consider based on your overall goals. For example, if you're looking for shatter protection and reduced fading, you're looking for something like the IRX Series. If you're looking for high visibility that doesn't sacrifice privacy, you're looking for something like the Air Series.

Access to Window Tinting Equipment

What many car owners don't realize is that they'll need more than just window tint film to get the job done. For starters, you need to ensure that your windows are clean and clear of all debris. To thoroughly clean the exterior glass, you'll need the standard supplies like squeegees and microfiber cloths as well as specialty supplies like utility knives, scrapers, and hard cards to remove the stuck-on gunk. 

For many jobs, you'll also need a heat gun, which most car owners don't have on hand. Heat guns are expensive tools that require experience for proper use. Without access to a heat gun, your window tint film may not conform to the curves of your windows. 

Proper Cleaning and Installation

Cleaning is the first step in installing window tint film because it provides the right base for the film. If there is any dirt or debris on your windows, it will prevent the film from laying flush against the glass. This will cause air bubbles and other blemishes in the window tint, which should have a smooth finish that looks like factory-installed glass rather than an addition. 

Whether or not your car requires a heat gun for window tint installation, there is a right and wrong way to install window film and it's not as simple as it seems. Depending on the type, window tint film can require hours of curing. Professional installation and supervision will ensure that the window tint film goes on the right way for a long-lasting finish. 

Legal Compliance

There is a common misconception that tinting your car windows will increase your chances of getting pulled over. The truth is that as long as you stay within the legal limits, you're unlikely to be pulled over and won't get ticketed if you do.

Each state has their own set of auto window tint laws, and Virginia is no exception. These laws determine how dark your window tint can be and may restrict things like color and reflectiveness. These laws involve terms like Visible Light Transmission, which most car owners aren't familiar with and may misunderstand.

By hiring a professional to tint your car windows, you don't have to worry about exceeding legal limits. You will also receive proof of your film's VLT. In the event that you need to prove that your car is legally compliant, you will be able to as long as you work with a professional.

Financial Savings

As we mentioned earlier, auto window tinting is an affordable way to upgrade your car. It may seem logical that by doing it yourself, you save money by skipping the cost of labor. The truth is that you're more likely to save money by working with a pro.

Improper installation can mar the look of your car and reduce your window tint's function. If your goal was, for example, to reduce gas use by keeping your car cool, you won't reap these benefits with poorly installed film. Plus, you won't get the same longevity out of your window tint film, which means removing and replacing the film sooner.

It also makes more financial sense to pay a professional than to invest in the proper equipment. Chances are, you won't need to use a heat gun often, which means that you're making a large purchase for limited use.

Car Value Protection

Car owners often wonder what window tinting does to the value of their car. Valuation experts have weighed in and the answer is that it depends. 

If your window tint is within legal limits and well-installed, you stand to protect your car's value. High-quality window tint film can protect your car's interior from fading and may even protect your windows from dings. Plus, a compliant film isn't likely to dissuade interested buyers.

If you can't prove that your window tint falls within legal limits, most buyers will hesitate. The same is true if you use window film that doesn't match factory glass and gives your car an unusual or "unique" appearance. While you might love the look of something unusual, most buyers prefer a standard appearance.

Hire an Auto Window Tinting Service in Virginia Beach

Tinted windows can improve your car's appearance and your driving experience at a reasonable cost. However, you're not going to see those same benefits without working with a window tinting company. 

Applied Film Technology has years of experience tinting car, home, and commercial windows in the Virginia Beach area. We are a licensed LLumar Film seller and strive to provide a top-notch auto window tinting service. Contact us today to find out more about our pricing and schedule your vehicle window tinting appointment.