What is Window tint?
Definition
Window tint is a thin film applied to glass to reduce light, glare and heat. Common types are dyed (budget), carbon (no signal interference, better fade resistance) and ceramic (best heat rejection). Darkness is measured as VLT.
Also called Window film.
Why it matters to a shop
Tint is high-volume, fast-turn work, which means the margin per car is thin enough that film cost and bay time have to be right. Pricing by glass set and film tier — rather than one flat per-car rate — is usually where a tint shop finds its missing profit.
Related terms
More from films & coatings — The products themselves — PPF, ceramic, tint and wrap vinyl.
- Paint protection film (PPF)A clear (or coloured) thermoplastic urethane film applied over a vehicle's paint to absorb rock chips, scratches and road debris. Also called a clear bra. Sold and installed by the linear foot off a roll, usually 60 inches wide.
- Ceramic coatingA liquid polymer (often silica/SiO₂-based) that cures to a hard, hydrophobic layer bonded to the paint or over PPF. It adds gloss and makes the surface easier to clean, but — unlike film — it does not stop rock chips.
- Self-healing filmPPF with an elastomeric topcoat that flows back to smooth when warmed, so light swirl marks and fine scratches disappear with heat from the sun or warm water. It repairs the topcoat only — not a deep cut through the film.
- TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane)The material modern PPF is made from. TPU is elastic, clear and abrasion-resistant, which is why it can be stretched over curves and (with the right topcoat) self-heal. It largely replaced older, more brittle PVC films.
- Vinyl wrapAn adhesive-backed vinyl film applied to change a vehicle's colour or finish (gloss, matte, satin, chrome, colour-shift) or to carry commercial graphics. Reversible, unlike paint. Cast vinyl conforms to curves; calendered vinyl is cheaper but flatter.
- VLT (visible light transmission)The percentage of visible light a tint lets through the glass. A lower VLT is darker (5% is very dark 'limo'; 70% is very light). Legal VLT limits vary by jurisdiction and by window, so always verify the local law before quoting.
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