With the unpredictable nature of British weather, our vehicles become more than just a means of transportation; they are our mobile shelters against rain, wind, and on the rare occasion, extreme sunshine. It’s during these sunny days that we understand the importance of window tinting films for vehicles. Not only do they enhance our cars' aesthetics, but they also offer an array of functional benefits.

For those considering taking the plunge into the world of vehicle window tinting in the UK, this blog offers a deep dive into finding the perfect shade, how to remain compliant with UK regulations, and the benefits it offers.

Understanding the UK’s Window Tinting Regulations

First and foremost, before diving into the benefits of window tints, it's crucial to be aware of the UK's tinting regulations. For vehicles used on or after 1 April 1985:

  • The front windscreen must let at least 75% of light through.
  • The front side windows must let at least 70% of light through.
  • There are no rules for tinting the rear windows, allowing 5% limo tint.

If your vehicle was first used before the 1st April 1985, both the front windscreen and side windows must let a minimum of 70% light through.

These guidelines ensure that drivers have adequate visibility, especially during darker conditions. It's also vital for law enforcement to maintain a level of visibility into vehicles for safety and security reasons. To view the law in full, click here to the Gov.uk website.

Benefits of Vehicle Window Tinting

Protection from UV Rays: despite the UK not being renowned for its blazing sun, when it does shine, it brings along harmful UV rays. A quality window tint can block up to 99% of these harmful rays, safeguarding both your skin and your car's interior from premature ageing and damage.

Enhanced Privacy: tinted windows provide an added layer of privacy, ensuring prying eyes cannot easily see into your vehicle. Especially for fleets or commercial vehicles that contain a lot of valuable equipment, tints can be applied as an additional precaution.

Temperature Control: tinted windows can dramatically reduce the heat inside your car by 35-60% during warmer days. This means a cooler vehicle interior and less reliance on air conditioning, leading to improved fuel efficiency.

Safety: in case of an accident, window tints can hold shattered glass together, preventing it from causing further injury to vehicle occupants. They can also help to reduce sun glare and protect your windows from scratches and chips.

Choosing the Perfect Shade

With the legalities out of the way, how do you choose the right shade for your vehicle? Here are a few considerations:

Purpose: why are you getting your windows tinted? If it's primarily for UV protection and you want minimal change in appearance, a clear or light tint might be perfect. If privacy is the primary concern, a darker shade would be more fitting, provided it's within legal limits.

Vehicle Colour: whilst this might seem like an aesthetic point, the colour of your vehicle can affect how a tint looks once applied. Darker cars might look sleeker with a medium to dark tint, whereas lighter cars might suit a light tint better.

Quality over Darkness: a common misconception is that the darker the tint, the better the protection. However, even clear tints can offer 99% UV protection if they are of high quality. The two window films we offer are perfect for this consideration, designed to the highest of standards whilst adhering to UK requirements. Both the OPX NR Elite Duo Window Tinting Film and the ASWF Automotive Window Tinting Film are available in several tint grades, ranging from 5% to 70%.

Window tinting is an excellent addition to any vehicle, offering a harmonious blend of style and functionality. Whilst the aesthetic allure is undeniable, the practical benefits – from UV protection to enhanced privacy – make it a worthwhile investment for any UK driver. Please feel free to browse our window tinting films on our website today or if you require further assistance, contact us on 01706 633043 or email sales@apptape.co.uk and we will be happy to help!