Classic Cars & Window Tint: A Good Match?
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Here’s a question for you. Do classic cars and window tint go together? Whether your vehicle is from the early 1900’s, 1950’s, or even the 90’s, it might be difficult to picture dark tints on those windows.
Well… What about a lighter tint? Automotive window film comes as light as 90%. That means it lets 90% of the light we can see into the car. But what’s the point of that? Don’t worry; just because the tint is light doesn’t mean that it’s not still working hard to reflect heat and block UV rays!
Window Film Shade Options
In this article in Petrolicious, Andrew Golseth talks about his own experience.
“A couple years ago, I purchased my very first BMW—a heat-absorbing black-on-black ‘99 M3. The rear ¾ had old 30% tint, which I promptly removed. After a few weeks of “fishbowling,” I came to the conclusion I no longer wanted to condition my leather via perspiration—something had to be done. I really didn’t want tint, but I needed to keep the cabin cooler and wanted to protect the leather as well. It was looking as if tint was my only option.”
Very light window tint still blocks up to 99% of UV rays and can help reduce glare. Don’t underestimate the usefulness of these films, especially when you want to preserve the classic look of your car, as well as protect its interior. Windows don’t have to be dark to look beautiful and cohesive.
Window Film and Heat
Golseth also brought up another good point in the article.
“Living in sunny Southern California, you’d be amazed how many classic automobiles are puttering around beach towns, and why not? The temperate year-round climate is the perfect atmosphere to endlessly savor your classic wheels of choice. But all this sunlight can get things toasty—and, with most vintage autos lacking air-conditioning—there aren’t many inexpensive alternatives to keep things less sweaty.”
Lacking air conditioning in the summer can be miserable, especially if you’re wanting to show off all the work you’ve done to restore your classic car. Even when the weather is nice out, getting stuck on the highway with no air movement takes all the fun out of a cruise.
However, if your windows are reflecting as much as 60% of the heat, and keeping you from getting a sunburn, you can crack a window open and enjoy the drive.
Letting Someone Else Touch Your Classic Car?!
The most important thing of all? Make sure you choose an automotive window tint installer who will respect your vehicle and treat it like their own. After all, an older car equals fewer and fewer spare parts out there on the market as the years go by. You shouldn’t have to worry about the condition of your car when you get it back.
Your installer should take great care of your treasure. You have the right to verify a company’s experience level and ask to see some examples of their work. Ask if they have experience with older vehicles like your own. Make sure they will be a good fit for you and your car for a great experience!
For more information on our services, or to talk about window tint percentage options for your classic (or new!) vehicle, contact us by calling (210) 863-1633. We are your premier source for automotive tint in the Tukwila and Seattle, Washington area! Our team looks forward to hearing from you.
