A Guide to Choosing the Right Window Tint Percentage
When it comes to window tinting, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right tint percentage. The percentage of window tint refers to the amount of light that is allowed to pass through the film. The lower the percentage, the darker the tint. So, how do you choose the perfect tint percentage for your car? It really depends on a few factors.
What are the Different Window Tint Percentages Available?
There is no standard when it comes to tint percentages. They can range from 5% to 90%. However, most window tinting films will fall somewhere between 20% and 35%.
5% Tint: This is the darkest tint you can get. A five percent tint means you have one percent of light coming through, which is very dark. This is the darkest tint you can get. A five percent tint means you have one percent of light coming through, which is very dark.
20% Tint: Twenty percent tint is also called "Factory Tint." Windows tinted at the factory usually have a shade like this. Twenty percent tint is also called "Factory Tint." Windows tinted at the factory usually have a shade like this.
35% Tint: This shade is popular with SUVs and van owners. It's a good balance between privacy and visibility. This shade is popular with SUV and van owners. It's a good balance between privacy and visibility.
50% Tint: A 50% tint is also called "Limo Tint." It's the lightest tint you can get.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Perfect Car Window Tint Percentage
Here are a few things to keep in mind when deciding on the perfect window tint percentage for your car.
1. The Climate
One of the main factors to consider when choosing a window tint percentage is the climate. If you live in a hot climate, a darker tint will be more beneficial. This is because it will help keep your car cooler by blocking out the sun's harmful UV rays. On the other hand, if you live in a colder climate, a lighter tint may be a better option. This is because it will allow more sunlight into your car, helping to keep it warmer.
2. Your Personal Preferences
Another factor to consider is your personal preferences. Some people prefer a darker tint because it gives them a sense of privacy and makes their car look more stylish. Others prefer a lighter tint because it makes their car look more open and airy. Ultimately, the decision is up to you.
3. The Tint Laws in Your State
Be sure to check the tint laws in your state before having your windows tinted. Each state has different laws regarding the amount of tint that is allowed on a car's windows. In some states, the front windshield can't be tinted at all. In other states, the front windshield can be tinted, but the percentage of tint is limited. Be sure to check the laws in your state so that you don't get pulled over and fined for having illegal window tint.
4. The Type of Car You Have
The type of car you have can also be a factor in choosing the perfect tint percentage. If you have a smaller car, a darker tint may be a better option. This is because it will make your car look larger. On the other hand, if you have a larger car, a lighter tint may be a better option. This is because it won't make your car look too small.
5. The Cost
The cost is always a factor in any decision. When it comes to window tinting, the cost will vary depending on the tint percentage. The darker the tint, the more expensive it will be. However, the darker the tint, the more privacy you will have. If you are on a budget, a lighter tint may be a better option.
Conclusion
There are a few things to consider when choosing the perfect window tint percentage for your car. The first is the state law - in some states, there are strict regulations on how dark your car windows can be. The second is your personal preference - do you want your car to be more private, or do you want to be able to see out of the windows more easily? And finally, you need to consider the purpose of the window tint - is it for UV protection or aesthetic purposes?
Once you've considered all of these factors, you'll be able to choose the perfect window tint percentage for your car.
Cen Cal Tinting is a full-service window tinting company in Fresno, providing quality automotive, residential, commercial, RV, and marine window tint installations to customers located throughout Fresno, CA, and the surrounding areas. To schedule your car window tinting, contact us by telephone or email for further assistance from one of our customer service representatives today!
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What our customers think
Had our 2025 Tesla Model 3 tinted by Cen Cal Tinting and the whole experience was top notch. The quality of the work speaks for itself — super clean install, no bubbles, and the heat rejection is noticeable right away. What really made it stand out though was the customer service. You can tell they really care about their work and their customers. Highly recommend Cen Cal Tinting if you want it done right.
Took my Camry in for a i3 ceramic all around plus the air ceramic for the front windshield. Very pleased how it turned out. Highly recommend them. They are very professional and scheduling with them was very easy. And plus, they give you a lifetime warranty on their films.
This is my 4th car along with several referrals I have brought to this company to work on my vehicles. They have done a fantastic job on each one of them. On this particular one they did 15% tint over the factory tinted glass and 35% on the sides with a 5% windshield strip. Looking forward to all my future cars to this company. They typically complete the job in a few hours and are very connected via text message.
We Are Here To Help
We specialize in window tinting, paint protection film (PPF), ceramic coating, paint correction, and vehicle wraps. Whether you’re looking for heat rejection, gloss enhancement, or full protection, we’ve got you covered.
Absolutely. Many customers drop off their cars before work or leave them overnight. Just let us know what works best for your schedule and we’ll accommodate.
We’re located in Clovis, CA, and proudly serve Fresno and the surrounding Central Valley. Our shop is easy to find, and we’re just minutes away from most parts of Fresno.
You can call, text, or request a quote online in under a minute. We’ll just need your vehicle year, make, model, and what service you’re interested in to get you an accurate estimate.
We recommend booking an appointment to avoid wait times, but walk-ins are welcome when we have availability. Feel free to call or text us to check for same-day openings.
Yes — we recommend giving your car a basic exterior wash before your appointment. This helps us avoid rubbing dry dirt or dust into the paint when working on your vehicle, which can cause scratching. It also makes it easier for us to get great photos of your car when it’s all done!
Yes! We offer buy now, pay later options through providers like Affirm, Afterpay, and others — so you can split your purchase into easy payments. Just ask us for more details when booking.
We work on nearly all types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, Teslas, luxury, and exotic cars. It’s rare that we come across something we can’t work on — but if you have a unique vehicle, feel free to reach out and we’ll be happy to confirm.
