Tinting a commercial building’s windows can provide a lot of benefits, but not all window tints are created equal.
Before you decide on a window tinting film for your property, you should understand the differences between ceramic tint and regular tint. This will allow you to better decide what window film is best for your needs and goals.
What is regular window tinting film?
For years, the most common type of window tint material was sheets of window film dyed different colors. This is what we call “regular tint.”
The sheets of tint are typically made from polyester or another laminate material and can be dyed in varying shades (from very light to very dark) for different levels of window tinting.
The most common shade of regular tint is black, but it is also available in other colors and shades, such as gray and brown.
The levels of regular tinting are known as gradations, and range from about 10% to 90%, with lower percentages being darker shades.
The primary purposes of regular window tint film are to block sunlight and add privacy to vehicles, homes, and businesses. You can think of it as sunglasses for windows and other glass surfaces.
What is ceramic window tinting film?
As window tinting technology has advanced over the years, new types of tints have emerged, including ceramic tint.
Ceramic window films are similar to regular films in that they are typically made from polyester- or laminate-based sheets and available in a variety of shades and colors.
The key difference between ceramic tint and regular tint is that the ceramic variety is coated with ceramic particles at the end of the manufacturing process.
Ceramic window tints also block visible sunlight and add privacy, but have added performance from this special coating. They block harmful UV rays, glare, and heat, thus drastically improving the performance of your windows and other glazings.
Ceramic tint vs regular tint: what’s the superior window film?
Ceramic-coated window film is far more high-performing than regular window tint. In fact, there are several problems with a regular tint that should make you think twice about ever using it at all.
For starters, regular tint film does not reflect UV rays or heat, and it can actually raise the thermal stress on your glass, or make it hotter than it would be if it wasn’t tinted.
If your windows receive too much sun and heat up too much, the added thermal stress can even cause them to crack and break.
Regular tinting sheets are also far less durable than their ceramic counterparts. They have an anti-scratch coating to help them last longer, but the coating breaks down eventually and you may find yourself re-tinting your windows more often than you’d like due to scratches and another marring.
Window films with ceramic coatings are far superior to regular window films because they are more durable, don’t add thermal stress to glass, and very efficiently block UV rays, glare, and heat.
Summary of ceramic tint vs regular tint:
Both are made from polyester or laminate sheets
Both available in a variety of shades, colors, and gradients
Both block visible light and add privacy
Regular window film only has an anti-scratch coating
Ceramic window film is coated with durable ceramic particles
Ceramic film blocks harmful UV rays, glare, and heat (the regular film doesn’t)
Regular window tint makes glass heat up more (the ceramic film doesn’t)
Are there any other types of window tint?
There is another type of window tinting film that we should mention, so you’re aware of it: metalized tint.
Metalized window tint is coated with metallic particles, which makes it outperform regular films.
However, there is a big problem with metalized window films: the metal particles can affect signal transmission and reception for electronics.
Because of this, it’s always recommended to go with ceramic window tinting film over metallic films — it won’t interfere with your cell reception or WiFi signal at all.
What’s the Best Ceramic Window Film on the Market?
If you want a top-of-the-line ceramic window tinting film for your property, we highly recommend the 3M Prestige series.
3M Prestige window film is a high-performing sun control window film that allows natural light into your building while blocking out infrared light, harmful UV rays, and solar heat.
This provides a whole range of benefits for you and your space, without compromising on natural light or visibility and outdoor views.
Benefits of 3M Prestige solar blocking window film:
Allows high transmission of natural light
Blocks up to 97% of infrared light
Rejects up to 60% of solar heat
Keeps out 99.9% of harmful UV rays
Reduces glare
Lets you enjoy views
Can provide energy savings
Helps maintain indoor comfort
Corrosion-resistant
Doesn’t interfere with electronic signals
By blocking out so much infrared heat (the sun’s light that you feel) and solar heat gain through your windows, Prestige window film helps you maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and can reduce your reliance on AC to stay cool.
Though not as effective at improving energy efficiency as low-emissivity window film, sun-blocking window film still greatly improves the performance of your property’s windows.
Also, you don’t have to worry so much about indoor furnishings fading from sun exposure over time. This type of fading is caused by the sun’s harmful UV rays, the majority of which are blocked by Prestige window film as well.
If you want to let light into your property, but not heat, as well as be able to maintain visibility through your windows, 3M Prestige series window film is the way to go.
Wrapping Up
In the fight between ceramic tint vs regular tint, ceramic is the clear winner. Though regular tint is cheaper, there are several problems with it that make it the inferior choice and can even make it a more costly choice over the long run.
Ceramic tint outperforms any other type of window tinting film on the market by leaps and bounds, and its performance and benefits can even help save you money in the long term.
At Campbell Corporation, we have authorized dealers and installers of a full range of 3M window films. Contact us to discuss your window tinting project and get it started today.
Window tinting has come a long way since its introduction decades ago. Once a simple choice between a darker or lighter shade, today’s window tints offer an array of choices with varying benefits and trade-offs. Among the plethora of options, two types of tint stand out – ceramic tint and regular tint. However, with these options comes the confusion of what to choose. Do you go for the regular tint because of its affordability, or opt for the high-tech ceramic tint for its superior features? The Tint Guy is here to shed some light on the subject and help you make an informed decision.
Commonly known as dyed film, regular tint has been the go-to choice for vehicle owners for years. As a cost-effective option, it provides a decent level of privacy and reduces some of the sun’s glare. Regular window tint works by absorbing some of the solar heat and UV rays, offering some degree of heat reduction and UV protection. It’s a budget-friendly choice for vehicle owners who want to add a touch of privacy and sophistication to their ride.
However, despite its affordability and the aesthetic upgrade it provides, standard tint comes with a few downsides. The UV light and heat rejection capabilities of regular window tint aren’t as strong compared to more advanced tinting options, such as ceramic tint. While it offers some degree of heat reduction, it’s not the best choice if you’re primarily looking to keep your vehicle cool.
Cheap tint, as some might call it, also doesn’t provide a high level of infrared protection. Infrared radiation is what mostly makes sunlight feel hot. So, without a strong defense against it, even a darker tint may not significantly cool down your car.
Before moving on to our next section, let’s remember that while it has its limitations, regular tint is a viable option for car owners who are on a budget and want some basic benefits such as glare reduction and added privacy.
Stepping into the realm of cutting-edge technology, ceramic tint has significantly elevated the benefits of window tinting. With nano-ceramic technology at its core, ceramic window tinting offers a plethora of benefits that far exceed those of standard tint.
Unlike regular tint that uses dyes, ceramic window tint involves the infusion of ceramic particles into the film. These nano-ceramic particles play a crucial role in blocking out harmful UV rays and rejecting a substantial portion of solar heat. This results in excellent UV protection and heat reduction, keeping your vehicle cool and comfortable even on the hottest summer days.
One of the most appreciated features of ceramic tint is its impressive infrared rejection capabilities. Infrared light is the primary culprit behind the heat we feel from the sun. A good ceramic tint can reject up to 90% of solar infrared light, making your drive significantly cooler.
In terms of color stability, ceramic window tint takes the lead. It’s highly resistant to fading, ensuring that your window tint maintains its rich color for years to come. The structural stability of ceramic tint also prevents bubbling and peeling, common issues faced by cheaper tints.
Ceramic window film does more than just keep your car cool. Its high-tech construction ensures minimal signal interference, which means your electronic devices will work just as efficiently with the tint on.
Moreover, ceramic tint offers superior clarity, ensuring that your view isn’t compromised while still reducing glare from the sun. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to achieve a balance between privacy, comfort, and visibility.
To sum up, ceramic tint, with its advanced technology and comprehensive benefits, presents a compelling option for car owners seeking high performance and lasting durability. However, it’s worth noting that all these premium features come at a relatively higher price point compared to regular tint.
Choosing between ceramic and regular window tint isn’t a decision to be made lightly – it can significantly impact your driving experience, the lifespan of your vehicle’s interior, and even the look and feel of your car. Let’s stack up these two contenders side-by-side to help you make an informed decision.
Firstly, when it comes to UV protection and heat rejection, ceramic tint comes out on top. Its advanced construction helps to block nearly 99% of harmful UV rays and reject a significant amount of solar heat, making your ride cooler and protecting your car’s interior from sun damage. Regular tint, on the other hand, while still offering UV protection and some heat reduction, doesn’t quite measure up to the performance of ceramic tint.
Secondly, the level of infrared protection offered by these two types of tints is starkly different. Regular tint does not have any infrared rejecting properties, while ceramic tint, thanks to its nano-ceramic particles, offers high infrared rejection capabilities, contributing further to the heat reduction inside your vehicle.
The difference in visual appeal and privacy between these two is also worth noting. Both types of tints come in a range of shades, allowing you to choose the darkness level that suits your aesthetic preference and need for privacy. However, ceramic tint provides better clarity, making your view from inside the car clearer while reducing the sun’s glare significantly more than regular tint.
In terms of lifespan and durability, ceramic tint is far superior. While it might come at a higher price point, the durability and superior performance of ceramic tint can save you from frequent replacements, offering better value in the long run.
As for the legal aspect, both tints must comply with the state laws governing window tint darkness and reflection. It’s crucial to check the specific regulations in your state before making your decision.
While it might seem like ceramic tint is the clear winner, remember, your choice between ceramic tint and regular tint ultimately comes down to personal preference, your specific needs, and your budget. Dyed film can be an excellent choice for those looking for a cost-effective solution, while ceramic tint is ideal for those seeking advanced features and long-lasting performance.
After exploring the nuances of ceramic tint vs regular tint, you might still be wondering which is the right choice for your vehicle. That’s where The Tint Guy can come in. As Atlanta’s top window tinting company with over three decades of experience, we can guide you through the process and ensure your tinting project meets all your standards and specific needs.
If you’re swaying towards the advanced technology of ceramic window tinting, check out our premium selection of Ceramic Series Window Film. The innovative nano-ceramic technology delivers maximum heat and UV protection along with a significant reduction in glare without interfering with signals from electronic devices. Remember, while ceramic tinting might be a bit more of an investment upfront, it offers superior performance and durability, providing better value in the long run.
On the other hand, if you’re leaning towards the cost-effective solution of regular, or dyed film, we have a selection of some of the best standard films on the market. We can offer a range of shades to complement your style with noticeable UV protection and heat reduction in your car. With our skilled installation and lifetime warranty, our standard tint is sure to outperform the industry’s “cheap tint”.
We understand that every car owner and vehicle is unique, which is why we pride ourselves on providing tailored solutions to meet our customers’ specific needs. From initial consultation to installation and aftercare, our experienced team is committed to delivering an exceptional customer service experience.
The Tint Guy is more than just a window tinting service. We’re a trusted partner committed to enhancing your driving experience and the longevity of your vehicle. With our wide selection of professional services, we aim to meet the window tinting needs of every client and do a great job the first time.
Whether you decide on ceramic window tint or regular window tint, trust The Tint Guy for the most reliable automotive films and long-lasting installation. Get in touch with us today or go ahead and schedule your appointment online, and let’s transform your driving experience!