Everything You Need Know About Auto Window Installation

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December 8, 2023

Are you thinking about getting a window tint for your car but are concerned about the quality and longevity? Here at Lucent Auto Work, we're ready to share our wealth of expertise. Whether you are looking for functionality or style, this blog post will teach you everything you need to know about installing window tints on your car professionally. 


What comes next will not only make your car look better, but it will also protect your car from UV rays and give you much-needed privacy when traveling. Bring your sense of adventure and allow us to transform your driving experience!

Understanding Tacoma's Window Tint Laws

When it comes to car window tinting, it is crucial to have an understanding of the local laws and regulations. Each state and city may have specific guidelines that dictate the permissible levels of darkness for window tints. 


Vehicle owners in Tacoma, Washington, must follow specific regulations to stay in compliance with the law. It is essential to note that these laws can vary depending on whether you have a sedan, SUV, or another type of vehicle. Additionally, the regulations may differ for front windows, rear windows, and rear windshield tints. 


Familiarizing yourself with these specifics will help ensure that you select a window tint that meets legal requirements while achieving your desired aesthetic and functionality.


  • According to the International Window Film Association, professionally installed window films can reduce interior surface temperatures by up to 16 degrees Celsius, which is particularly beneficial in areas like Tacoma that can have considerable temperature variations.
  • Over 60% of consumers would rather have a professional handle the installation of automotive services like window tinting, according to SEMA Market Research
  • A study published in Energy and Buildings reported that window tints can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays, thereby protecting the interior of the vehicle from premature aging and fading.

Essential Car Window Tinting Laws in Tacoma, WA

When you choose and install window tinting for your Tacoma, there are a few important things to keep in mind, according to the regulations. Most cars have the following features:


1. Visible Light Transmission (VLT): VLT refers to the amount of visible light allowed to pass through both the film and glass. In Tacoma, the state law mandates that front side windows should allow at least 24% VLT, while rear side windows and the back windshield can have any darkness level.


2. Reflectivity: The level of reflectivity determines how much light is reflected off the surface of the window. Regulations often limit excessive reflectivity, which could be potentially distracting for other drivers.


3. Restricted Colors and Mirrored Finish: Some jurisdictions may restrict specific colors or mirrored finishes that can obstruct visibility or resemble emergency vehicles.


Failure to comply with these regulations may result in penalties, such as having your vehicle flagged as non-compliant during inspections or traffic stops.


Imagine installing dark-tinted front-side windows that exceed the VLT limit. If law enforcement stops you, you might have to pay a fine or take the tint off. When considering window tinting for your vehicle, consult with a professional window tinter knowledgeable about Tacoma's specific laws. 



A reputable tinting shop will ensure your windows meet legal requirements while providing the desired benefits, such as heat reduction and UV protection.

How to Select a Reputable Auto Window Tint Shop in Tacoma, WA

There are several factors to consider when choosing a reputable window tint shop in Tacoma. Picking a car window tinting expert who can tailor their work to your exact specifications is crucial.  A good starting point is to seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have had their windows tinted before.


Their firsthand experiences can give you valuable insights into the quality of work and customer service provided by different tinting professionals in the area.


Furthermore, conducting online research can help you narrow down your options. Look for reputable businesses with positive reviews and ratings on platforms like Google or Yelp.  Consider visiting their websites to see if they have detailed information about their services, years of experience, and any certifications they may hold. This can give you further confidence in their expertise.


Once you have narrowed down the list of potential window tint shops, the next step is to prioritize quality and experience.

Prioritize Quality and Experience

Quality and experience are essential when it comes to window tint installation. To guarantee that the results live up to your expectations, choose a professional window tinting team with both of these qualities.


First, consider the quality of the materials used. High-grade window films contribute to better heat rejection, UV protection, and overall durability. Inquire about the brands they work with and if they offer warranty coverage for their installations.


Second, evaluate the installer's experience. Experience not only indicates a higher level of skill but also implies that they have previously handled various types of vehicles and complex projects.


A skilled tinter's techniques and knowledge are priceless because they are familiar with the legal tint limits set by local laws.


By prioritizing quality and experience when selecting a professional window tinter, especially in Tacoma, you increase your chances of getting a top-notch installation that provides long-lasting benefits and enhances the style and comfort of your vehicle.

The Step-by-Step Guide for Installing Window Tint in Cars

Having your car windows professionally tinted can enhance the aesthetics, privacy, and even the comfort of your vehicle. But what does the process of professional window tinting entail? Let's take a step-by-step look at how this meticulous procedure is typically carried out.


First and foremost, evaluation is critical. A professional tinter will inspect your car's windows for damage or flaws. This evaluation is critical to ensuring a smooth and successful tint installation. Once the evaluation is complete, they will begin by preparing the windows for tint application.


This involves thoroughly cleaning them to remove any dirt, debris, or residue that could affect the adhesion of the tint film. 

Proper cleaning ensures a seamless and long-lasting result.


Next comes precise measurement and cutting of the tint film. A skilled installer will carefully measure each window panel to ensure accurate sizing of the film. They will then cut the film accordingly, ensuring a precise fit for each window. With the film cut to size, it's time for application. A solution will be applied to both the window surface and the adhesive side of the tint film.


This allows for simple positioning and adjustment before proper adhesion occurs.


As they position the film onto the window, they will work methodically to remove any air bubbles or creases, using specialized tools like squeegees and heat guns. This step requires skill and patience to achieve a flawless finish. Once all windows are fully tinted and any remaining excess film has been trimmed away, it's time for drying and curing.


The car may need to sit in a controlled environment for some time to allow the adhesive on the film to bond fully with the glass surface.


Now that we've explored the step-by-step process of professional window tinting, let's take a closer look at the journey from evaluation to final touches.

The Journey: From Evaluation to Final Touches

When you bring your vehicle to a trusted window tinting installation shop, the journey toward achieving the perfect tint begins with an evaluation.


This initial step allows skilled installers to assess the condition of your windows and recommend suitable tint options based on your preferences and local regulations.


Once the evaluation is complete, you will have the opportunity to choose your desired tint. A reputable tint shop offers various types of films with different levels of darkness or heat-rejecting properties. 


They can guide you through the available options and help you select the one that best fits your needs.


After selecting your preferred tint, the installation process begins. Expert installers will skillfully prepare, measure, cut, and apply the tint film to each window panel with precision. They will take their time to ensure a meticulous result free from imperfections.


Throughout the journey, quality is of the utmost importance. The best window tinting shop uses only the highest quality materials and staffs their services with experts who have years of experience in the field. 


By prioritizing quality at every stage, these professionals aim to exceed customer expectations and provide long-lasting satisfaction.

Experience the Ultimate Driving Experience With Expert Window Tinting Service

At Lucent Auto Work, we redefine precision. With a keen eye for detail, our professional window tint installers carefully mold each film to the specific curves of your car. This personalized approach ensures not only a flawless finish but also an optimal balance of style and functionality. 


In addition to protecting you from the sun's harmful rays, our window tinting service gives the outside of your car a mysterious look. We use cutting-edge tinting tools to create a haven within your vehicle, allowing you to enjoy the allure of privacy without sacrificing visibility. 


Choose Lucent Auto Work in Tacoma, WA, for an unrivaled fusion of technology and craftsmanship, ensuring that your drive is more than just a commute but a symphony of automotive excellence.


Give us a call today for more details and to request a quote!

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