The types of tint film
- Dyed film: the most basic and lowest-cost. It darkens glass and adds privacy, but rejects less heat and can fade over time.
- Carbon film: better heat rejection and a matte look.
- Ceramic film: uses ceramic particles to reject heat, particularly infrared, without needing to be dark, and without interfering with phone or GPS signals.
Why heat matters
Heat in a vehicle is not only temperature. The sun's infrared load makes a cabin feel hotter, makes the A/C work harder and bakes dashboards. A film that rejects more of it keeps the cabin more comfortable, especially in a sunny summer afternoon in a parking lot.
When ceramic is worth it
- You want a lighter look but still want a cooler cabin.
- You spend a lot of time in the vehicle or have kids or pets in the back.
- You want longevity and clarity in the film.
What it costs at O Detail
Two front windows start at $249, a rear package (3 windows) from $349, a full vehicle from $450 and a windshield from $250. The ceramic film upgrade adds from $120. GST extra. See the window tint page.
Common tint myths
- 'Darker means cooler.' Not necessarily. A lighter ceramic film can reject more heat than a darker dyed film.
- 'Tint blocks all heat.' It reduces it. Good film makes a noticeable difference but does not turn a vehicle into a fridge.
- 'Any tint looks the same after a few years.' Cheaper film can fade or turn purple over time. Quality film holds its colour.
Choosing a shade
Lighter shades keep visibility better at night, and darker shades add privacy. If you drive a lot at night on dark rural roads, lean lighter. Tell us what you want when you request a quote. For the front side windows, 35% is the most common choice in Airdrie and Calgary, and the rear windows can go darker, such as 20%.
Questions to ask any tint shop
- Which film do you use, and is it dyed, carbon or ceramic?
- What warranty comes with it?
- How long before I can roll the windows down?