How To Get Factory Tinted Windows

What Makes Factory Tint Different Than Aftermarket Tint?

Though the word "tint" is typically used to refer to both factory and aftermarket tint, the two types of tint are extraordinarily different. Factory tint is the tint that the vehicle is sold with, whereas aftermarket tint refers to tint options that you apply to your car's windows after you've purchased it. If you've always loved the look of tinted car windows, there are some things you should know.

What is Factory Tint?

Vehicles come with factory tint directly from the manufacturer. Factory tint is a tint that's embedded within the glass of the window. It is saturated throughout the window; there is no way to scratch or peel this tint. As this tint cannot be removed, factory tint tends to be fairly light, as many areas have regulations regarding tint darkness.

Factory tint cannot be made lighter, but it can be made darker through the application of aftermarket tint. Factory tint doesn't convey the additional benefits of aftermarket tint, such as UV protection. It is a purely aesthetic option. Those who want to reflect light away from their vehicle will need to invest in a window film cover.

What is Aftermarket Tint?

Compared to factory tint, aftermarket tint is extraordinarily versatile. Aftermarket tint is applied as a seamless film to a window. When professionally applied, it will appear as though it is a part of the window. Factory tint is best known as altering the darkness of vehicle windows, but it's also used to reduce UV light and heat transmission. Properly designed aftermarket tint will improve the overall longevity and appearance of a car's interior.

Aftermarket tints have to be installed by professionals because professionals need to compensate for the natural tint of the glass. To make tinted glass darker, calculations need to be done to let the appropriate light through. Aftermarket tint may also need to be shaded.

Aftermarket tint has to be applied properly to avoid bubbles or peeling, which can make a vehicle look unattractive very quickly. When desired, aftermarket tint can be easily swapped out with a different tint option, by removing the first tint entirely and applying a new film.

There are also invisible films that will help in blocking UV light and warmth but will not appreciably darken windows.

Ultimately, factory tint and aftermarket tint are both very different products, and they are also extremely dissimilar in their function. While factory tint will darken windows in a durable way, it will not protect the interior of the car or the car's riders from harmful rays. Comparatively, aftermarket tint is significantly more versatile. Aftermarket tint is an affordable way for a car owner to change the appearance of the car while improving their comfort. For more information, contact the tint experts at Executive Motorsports.

do you have questions about your tint and how to care for it? Contact us!