Top 5 Window Tinting Myths Debunked

At Pro Tint of Orlando, we’ve been providing award-winning Orlando window tinting services for over 25 years, which means we’ve heard plenty of myths and misconceptions about window tinting from the local community.

Whether you’re new to the world of car window tinting, or on your 5th go-around with the latest and greatest ceramic tint, it’s important to separate fact from fiction so you can make an informed decision.

In this blog post, we’re setting the record straight and debunking the top 5 window tinting myths we’ve heard from our customers in Florida.

Myth #1: Window Tinting is Illegal

The most common myth we hear is that car window tinting is either illegal in Florida, or that you’ll get pulled over the moment your tinted vehicle drives across Florida state lines. The truth? It depends on where you live and the how dark of a tint you chose.

While some states, especially those in the northeast, have strict regulations on how dark your tint can be, many others are open to fairly dark window tint, especially when it comes to the side and rear windows.

For example, in Florida, there are well-defined tint laws that specify the acceptable amounts of light transmission for different windows in vehicles. For the front side windows, the law allows for 28% visible light transmission (VLT), while the rear windows can be tinted down to 15% for sedans and 6% for vans, trucks and SUVs. Windshields can be tinted down to the AS-1 line, but no further.

At Pro Tint of Orlando, our automotive window tint experts will help guide you through which tint percentages are permissible in your area to help your vehicle stay in compliance with local laws and regulations.

Myth #2: Window Tinting is Only For Looks

While tinted windows can definitely enhance the appearance of your car, home, or business, it offers a range of practical benefits that go far beyond aesthetics. One of the biggest advantages of 3M window films in particular is their high level of UV protection.

Modern 3M window films all reject up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays, which helps protect your skin from sun damage and has been recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation as a proven method to help prevent skin cancer.

Additionally, window tinting helps keep the interior of your car, home or business cooler by reducing the amount of infrared heat passing through the glass. This not only makes for a more comfortable experience, but it can also reduce your fuel consumption or air conditioning costs.

Ceramic window tint is well-known as having exceptional heat rejection properties, with 3M Ceramic IR boasting up to 95% infrared rejection capabilities at 5% tint.

At the top of line, 3M Crystalline can block up to 97% of harmful infrared rays at just 20% tint, which is significantly lighter than most ceramic window films while offering superior performance.

So, while window tinting does improve the look of your car, home or business, its benefits extend far beyond improving curb appeal.

Myth #3: Tint Will Cause Bubbles and Fading Over Time

Another myth we hear frequently is that window tint never lasts; that it always leads to bubbles and peeling. While this may true for cheap “$99 window tint” or improperly installed films, high quality 3M window films — like those we use at Pro Tint of Orlando, are guaranteed for life to not fade, bubble, peel, crack, delaminate or turn purple.

We exclusively carry 3M window films, which are world-renowned for their outstanding durability and performance. This ensures that you get a smooth, long-lasting finish with full peace of mind.

Proper installation is also key. Our professional tint installers perform every job to the highest standards of workmanship, using the proper tools and techniques to guarantee that your tint adheres properly, without defects – and stays in pristine condition for years to come.

Myth #4: Tinted Windows Make it Hard to See At Night

Many people worry that having tinted windows will reduce visibility, especially at night. The misconception is that the windows will be too dark, making it difficult to see clearly. The reality, however, is that modern 3M window films are designed to reduce glare from the sun while maintaining optimal visibility. And most importantly, having the right tint percentage installed can make all the difference.

While it’s true that darker window tint can make nighttime driving more challenging, 3M window films are engineered to offer exceptional clarity. They help reduce glare from the sun during the day, and help combat glare from oppressively bright headlights at night.

Many people who are new to car window tinting are going to experience a short period of adaptation after having their car tinted. The darker the film, the more potential for difficulties during the adjustment period.

Pro Tint of Orlando’s experts will guide you through selecting the proper tint percentage to ensure your nighttime visibility is not negatively affected, while still meeting your needs and budget.

Myth #5: Window Tinting is Too Expensive

The perception that window tint is an expensive luxury is another common myth we’ve encountered. While it’s true that higher-end films like 3M Crystalline do cost more, the overall price of tinting can be very affordable, especially when you consider the long-term benefits. Window tinting is an investment that can save both car owners and homeowners significant amounts of money in the long run.

For example, by reducing the amount of heat that enters your car, home or business through its windows, tint can improve the efficiency of air conditioning. The results is that tint can help lower fuel consumption and/or energy bills.

Window tint can also protect your car’s interior from fading and cracking, which saves money on future repairs and replacements. Tinted windows can also protect furniture from fading and cracking by blocking harmful UV rays.

At Pro Tint of Orlando, we offer competitive pricing and work with you to find the right 3M window film for your needs and budget.

Final Thoughts

At Pro Tint of Orlando, we’re dedicated to providing industry-leading 3M window tinting services that provide numerous practical benefits for automotive, residential, or commercial customers.

We’ve been awarded the #1 National Automotive Tint Dealer in the U.S. by 3M Corporation, and are currently Central Florida’s only accredited 3M Pro Shop Dealer.

Whether you’re interested in blocking the sun’s heat, protecting your skin, or enhancing your car’s appearance, window tinting is a great solution—and it’s not as complicated or expensive as some of these myths might otherwise suggest.

If you’re still unsure about our Orlando window tinting services or have any questions, feel free to contact us. Our team of experts are happy to provide more information and guide you through the process. We’re open 7 days a week, and can also provide instant online quotes for your car, home or business.