Window tinting terms can be a very technical subject, with a lot of new jargon that needs to be learned. If you’re considering window tinting for your vehicle, you must understand some of the terminology used in the industry before picking out a film and having it installed on your car.

We have listed roughly the most essential terms below to get you started, but if the term is not listed, please feel free to ask us!

1. Films

A film is a type of product applied to windows to achieve various levels of heat rejection, heat blocking, and light transmission control. Many layers are available on the market, varying in heat rejection, light transmission control, and heat blocking. We have a wide range of films to suit your vehicle’s exterior design, interior comfort or security needs.

2. Tints

Tint refers to the film colour itself, not the level of heat rejection it provides. Many shades are available on the market, from traditional black pigments to more specialized colors like blue, green, and silver. Paint can also be applied in different levels, so you can choose how dark or light you want your windows to be.

3. Visible Light Transmission (VLT)

This term describes how much light will pass through a window film. VLT is measured in percentages, with the higher rates meaning less light will be transmitted. You will need to decide how much natural light you want to pass through your windows.

4. Heat Rejection

This term describes the level of heat that a window film can block. Heat rejection is measured in percentages, with the higher rates meaning more heat will be stopped. you will need to decide how much heat you want your windows to reject.

5. Reflectivity

It is the amount of light that a window film reflects. A higher number reflects more light and a lower number reflects less light. Reflectivity affects the heat rejection of your windows – so you need to consider how much heat rejection you want compared with how reflective you need your windows to be.

LIGHT CAN BE BROKEN INTO 6 DIFFERENT TYPES:

TSER (Total Solar Energy Rejected) is the percentage of direct sunlight blocked by your vehicle’s windshield and back glass. TSER percentages vary greatly depending on manufacturer and window tint film type.

UVR (Ultraviolet Rejection) is the percentage of ultraviolet radiation blocked by your window tint. UVR is important because it is the leading cause of skin cancer and skin ageing.

VLR (Visible Light Rejection) is the percentage of visible light blocked by your window tint. VLR helps make a vehicle’s interior more pleasant and comfortable by providing a darker, more natural environment.

IRR (Infrared Reduction) measures the heat rejection you receive from your window tint. IRR is expressed as a percentage of blocked infrared light, which indicates how cool your car’s interior can stay with your new window tint installed.

GLARE REDUCTION is the percentage of glare rejected by your window tint. Glare Reduction is expressed as a percentage of reflected light blocked which can help you drive more safely anytime there is bright sun or artificial light that could distract your vision.

SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) is an extent used to determine how much solar heat will be transmitted through a window. The lower the SHGC number, the less solar heat will pass through the window in summer. Conversely, the higher the SHGC number, the more solar heat that will pass through the window in winter.

Now that you have apprehended the basics of what each term means, you can make a more informed decision when choosing the right window tint for your vehicle.