Health benefits may not be the first thing you think of when considering car window tinting. The harshness of the sun in Australia means we often think of reduced glare and better heat control. But there are several important health benefits car window tinting offers to you and your passengers.
Protection from Harmful UV Rays
We know that prolonged exposure to sunlight increases the risk of skin cancer, but we don’t often consider how exposed we are in our cars. While we diligently apply sunscreen whenever we know we’ll be spending long periods outdoors, we rarely apply sunscreen when we’re driving. And you won’t need to if your car windows are tinted. Auto tints block up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, and this benefit comes from the film itself, not the tint. So, clear films and very light tints still offer the same level of protection.
Reduced Eye Strain and Glare
Bright sunlight and reflective surfaces can significantly strain the eyes. This, along with other exposure to sunlight, can lead to deteriorating vision and contribute to the formation of cataracts. Window tints can significantly reduce glare from direct sunlight and the headlights of other vehicles at night. This not only makes driving more comfortable but also helps in maintaining good eye health.
Lower Risk of Heat-related Health Issues
Car interiors can become incredibly hot, especially during summer months. On long drives, this can increase the risk of heatstroke and dehydration, especially if unable to use air conditioning. As one would expect, window tints are very effective at keeping your car’s interior cooler by blocking a good portion of the sun’s heat. If keeping your car cooler in summer is a top priority for you, look for tints with a higher Total Solar Energy Rejected (TSER) percentage.
Prevention of Glass-related Injuries
Your car’s windscreen is laminated glass and designed to hold most of the glass in place in the event of an accident. However, other car windows are tempered glass; tougher than regular glass but still breakable. If this happens, they disintegrate into small pieces that are less dangerous but can still harm you. Tinted film can hold these pieces together, further reducing the risk of glass-related injuries.
Choosing the Right Tint for Your Vehicle
Not all tints are the same. To enjoy the health and other benefits of car window tints, consider the following factors:
- UV Protection Level: Look for tints that offer high UV protection. Most high-quality tints can block up to 99% of UV rays regardless of tint level, providing excellent protection against skin cancer and premature ageing.
- Visible Light Transmission (VLT): This indicates the amount of light allowed through the tint. Australian laws vary by state regarding the legal VLT limit, so it’s important that your tint complies with local regulations. Generally, a lower VLT means less light is let through, which can help reduce glare and heat inside the car.
- Material and Quality: Window tints come in various materials, including dyed, metalized, carbon, and ceramic films. Each has its own benefits, such as durability, heat rejection, and cost. Ceramic tints, for example, are highly effective at blocking heat without interfering with electronic devices, making them a popular but more expensive option.
- Warranty and Professional Installation: Ensure that your window tints are installed by a professional and comes with a warranty. Professional installers can advise on the best tint for your specific needs and ensure it adheres to legal requirements. And you don’t need to worry about the tint bubbling, peeling, or fading, which all affect its effectiveness and visual appeal.
From protecting your skin from the fierce Australian sun to ensuring your interior remains cool and comfortable, the benefits of window tints are clear. Consider installing window tints not just as an upgrade to your vehicle, but as a protective measure for your health and wellbeing.
