When it comes to selecting the perfect window tint for your vehicle, it’s crucial to grasp the contrasting characteristics of ceramic tint and cheap tint. Despite their initial resemblance, these options diverge significantly when it comes to shielding against heat and ensuring longevity. In this blog post, we will delve deep into the distinctive features and advantages of ceramic tint versus cheap tint, enabling you to make an enlightened decision for your enduring investment. The primary distinction lies in the realm of heat protection and durability. Cheap tint caters to the short-term, budget-conscious buyer, while ceramic tint is tailored for the discerning long-term investor. While these films may bear a striking resemblance in their infancy, their divergent performance becomes evident as time progresses.
What is Ceramic Tint?
Ceramic tint is an advanced window tinting option that offers superior heat and UV protection. Unlike regular dyed window tint, ceramic tint is specifically designed to block sunlight and solar heat effectively. On average, ceramic tint can provide 2-3 times more heat reduction compared to its regular counterparts, making it an ideal choice for those seeking maximum comfort inside their auto vehicles.
Understanding Solar Heat and Infrared Light
To grasp the significance of ceramic tint, it’s essential to comprehend solar heat and its components. The sun’s energy primarily comprises infrared light, accounting for 49.4% of total solar energy. Visible light makes up approximately 42.4%, while Ultraviolet (UV) radiation contributes 8%. Ceramic tint excels at blocking infrared light, ensuring your vehicle remains cooler even in scorching temperatures.
What is “Cheap Tint”?
The term “cheap tint” refers to low-quality window tint that is often offered at low prices. These products are manufactured using cheaper materials, enabling them to be sold at a lower cost. Cheap tint is typically categorized as dyed window film, lacking the advanced features and performance of ceramic tint. While it may be suitable for short-term use or those on a tight budget, cheap tint lacks the longevity and heat-blocking capabilities of ceramic tint.
The Problem with Fading and Discoloration
One common issue with cheap window tint is the tendency to fade or turn purple over time. One of the reasons why certain types of window tint can change color over time is due to the manufacturing process of the color or dye used in the film. As mentioned previously in this blog post, in order to offer window tint at a low price, manufacturers often take cost-cutting measures during production, which can result in shortcuts being taken.
Why does Window Tint get Bubbling?
Another problem commonly associated with cheap tint is bubbling. When the adhesive used in the tint lacks quality, prolonged exposure to sunlight causes it to deteriorate and fail. This adhesive failure leads to bubbling or blistering of the tint, which not only affects the aesthetics but also compromises its functionality. On the other hand, reputable ceramic tint brands utilize robust adhesives that prevent bubbling and ensure long-term adherence to the glass.
Durability and Longevity of Ceramic Tint
Unlike cheap tint, high-quality ceramic window tint is designed for long-term use. Its advanced formulation ensures excellent color stability over time, preventing fading or discoloration. Moreover, ceramic tint incorporates strong adhesives that resist adhesive failure and bubbling, even under prolonged exposure to solar heat. With a good ceramic tint, you can expect your windows to maintain their appearance and performance for years to come.
When it comes to window tinting, choosing the right option can make a significant difference in terms of heat protection, durability, and long-term value. While cheap tint may be a tempting choice due to its low cost, it often falls short in terms of heat reduction, longevity, and overall quality. On the other hand, ceramic tint offers superior heat and UV protection, ensuring a more comfortable driving experience and preserving the appearance of your vehicle over time. Invest in ceramic tint to enjoy long-lasting benefits and make the most of your window tinting investment.
XPEL Prime XR Plus Ceramic Window Tint
Here at our shop, Speed Projects Laboratory, located in Richmond just one block away from Richmond Auto Mall. We use XPEL’s premium grade car tint film – XPEL Prime XR Plus ceramic window tint which has infrared rejection (IR) of 92% at 70% Visible Light Transmitted (VLT) and 96% IR for all the rest of the VLT percentages offered. This is a great amount of IR rejected and if you would like to feel the difference, we have a demo at our showroom that our experienced representatives can show you! If you are interested in learning more about our XPEL Prime XR Plus Automotive ceramic window tint offering, please visit our webpage here.
Information obtained from Tint Academy Canada and XPEL Prime XR Plus Data Spec Sheet.