The interior temperature of a parked car can double within minutes on sunny days. And parking in the shade of a tree or building doesn’t make much difference. Getting into a car that feels like a sauna on overdrive is not something anyone looks forward to. You can blast the air-con for some relief, but it isn’t immediate, and it does put strain on your car. Apart from parking in an enclosed space, car window tinting is one of the most effective ways of reducing heat inside your vehicle. Here’s how it works.
Understanding Solar Heat
The sun produces different types of radiation, including visible light, ultraviolet rays (UV), and infrared radiation (IR). It’s the IR that generates most of the heat we feel. It is an invisible radiation, and it passes straight through normal car windows, heating up everything in its path – seats, surfaces, and even the air inside your vehicle.
How Window Tinting Blocks Heat
Window tint provides a barrier against the sun’s rays. Advancements in tinting films mean they are now made up of a variety of materials designed to reflect, block, and absorb different types of radiation.
Reflection
Window tints containing metallic particles work by reflecting a portion of sunlight – and infrared radiation. This bounces heat outwards, rather than letting it into your car.
Blocking
Ceramic and other high-tech window films block a portion of infrared radiation completely. These are expensive tinting films, but they also offer the best heat reduction.
Absorption
Some tint films absorb the sun’s energy. The materials in these films trap some infrared radiation, releasing small amounts of heat that dissipates more easily.
When asking for a car window tinting quote, always ask about the different tint options and their ability to reduce heat transfer.
The Comfort Benefits of Car Window Tinting
The main benefit of reducing heat inside your vehicle is comfort. You’re unlikely to be met with a blast of hot air as you open the door, and your seat won’t scorch you. Depending on the position of the sun, you’ll also be able to touch your steering wheel without wincing.
By blocking excessive heat and UV rays, window tint also keeps the interior of your car looking fresh for longer. Upholstery won’t fade, and leather and vinyl surfaces are less likely to dry out and crack.
Car window tint also helps reduce glare when driving, so you won’t need to squint or shift in your seat to avoid the sun in your eyes.
Choosing the Right Window Tint for Your Car
If you’re considering window tinting for heat reduction, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Type of film: Metallic, dyed, carbon, and ceramic are all options. Each has pros and cons in terms of cost, performance, and longevity. Ceramic tints are generally the best at blocking heat.
- Legal limits: Check your state’s laws on maximum tinting darkness to make sure your choice is legal. Don’t assume a darker tint will block more heat.
- Professional installation: A quality installation makes all the difference for durability and making sure your tint works as intended.
If a cooler, more comfortable ride is what you’re after, contact Instant Tinting. Our window tint experts can recommend the best solution to meet your needs without wrecking your wallet.
