Window Tinting Your Toyota – is it worth it?
Window Tinting Your Toyota – is it worth it?
Window tinting vehicles is a popular choice around the Sunshine Coast – you only have to take a drive down to the local grocery store to see how many people have decided to step into the shade.
Window tinting is about more than just the aesthetics of your car. There are some surprising benefits to going darker.
The benefits of window tinting
Let’s look at how window tinting your vehicle can benefit you, your family – and your car!
Health benefits
Tinting your windows can protect you and your family’s health.
We often don’t give much thought to the time spent in the car when tallying up our daily sun exposure. Although it is widely believed that conventional clear glass provides UV protection, it does not. This means that even if you only spend 30 minutes a day in the car, it equates to over 182 hours of direct sunlight exposure a year.
Studies have shown that UV-linked skin cancers more frequently occur on the side of our body closest to the vehicle window – and often on the arms.
Our eyes are also sensitive to sunlight, with excessive exposure to UV rays implicated in damage to vision, particularly in children.
Skincare benefits
Overexposure to UV rays can cause premature skin aging, leading to sunspots, wrinkles and uneven pigmentation.
Using sunscreen on a daily basis is a sensible precaution, but window tinting can add an extra level of protection.
Car care benefits
Just as the bright Queensland sunshine can cause damage to our skin, it is also harsh on our vehicle interiors. Tinted windows can keep your interior looking near new for longer. They protect against premature fading of surfaces and upholstery, while protecting against material deterioration.
Other benefits of window tinting
Tinting your windows can also have a number of additional benefits. A good tint will keep the interior of your car cooler, reducing your reliance on the aircon and saving you fuel.
It can also offer extra privacy and security.
What tinting options are available?
Dyed window films
This is the basic level of window tinting, effective at blocking between 5% and 50% of harmful UV rays. It is budget-friendly and has a stylish dark matte finish.
However, it is prone to deterioration, so it may delaminate or fade over time.
Metalized tinting
This type of tinting is designed to block harmful UV rays while reflecting heat and reducing glare. It is also long-lasting and fade-proof.
However, it can be one of the more expensive options and may interfere with your radio and electronics.
Hybrid window films
An excellent option that combines the advantages of dyed and metalized tints with few of the downfalls.
It will very effectively block UV rays, glare and heat. It is also more durable than dyed tints and less likely to interfere with electronics.
Ceramic window film
This is the premium window tinting choice – and the most expensive.
It blocks up to 70% of UV rays, glare and heat. It is also extremely durable and isn’t prone to fading over time. It also looks good and doesn’t interfere with radio and electronic devices.
What are the laws surrounding window tinting?
In Queensland, the Department of Transport and Main Roads have a number of regulations listed, dictating what is street legal for vehicles which currently have untinted glass, those with factory tinted glass and special regulations governing the use of tinting in windscreens.
It is worth finding the most up-to-date regulations and using a reputable provider.
Remember, window tinting your Toyota will not affect your warranty, provided it is street legal.