If you’re thinking about getting your car windows tinted in Wilmington, NC, you’ve probably got a lot of questions. What tint percentage should you choose? Will it look good? How dark can you go without breaking any laws? These are all important considerations before you take the plunge.
Car window tinting is not just about the way your car looks – it’s also about privacy, UV protection, and keeping your car cool. The right tint can make a huge difference, but how do you pick the right one? And what exactly do those percentage numbers mean? If you’re confused about window tinting percentages and need a little help, you’ve come to the right place!
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about car window tinting percentages in Wilmington, NC, and how to choose the best one for your needs. Plus, we’ll talk about NVS Customs, your go-to shop for all things car window tinting Wilmington NC.
What Are Car Window Tinting Percentages?
First things first – what do we mean by tint percentages? The percentage refers to the amount of visible light that’s allowed to pass through your window after it’s been tinted. A higher percentage means the windows are lighter, and a lower percentage means the tint is darker.
Here’s a quick rundown of the key numbers:
- 100%: No tint – completely clear.
- 50%: Moderate tint that still allows plenty of light in.
- 5%: Very dark tint, almost opaque.
The percentage number tells you how much light is allowed to pass through your window. The lower the number, the darker the tint, and vice versa.
Why Does Tint Percentage Matter?
Choosing the right tint percentage is about more than just aesthetics. Sure, a darker tint might look cool, but there are other factors to consider as well. Here’s why the tint percentage you choose is so important:
- Privacy: The darker the tint, the harder it is for people to see inside your car. If privacy is a priority, you might prefer a darker percentage.
- UV Protection: Tinted windows block UV rays, which can cause skin damage and fade your car’s interior. The darker the tint, the more UV protection you get.
- Heat Reduction: Tinted windows can keep your car cooler by blocking heat from the sun. Again, darker tints provide more heat protection.
- Visibility: While darker tints have their benefits, they also reduce visibility, especially at night or during poor weather. This is something to keep in mind when choosing your tint percentage.
- Legal Compliance: Different states and cities have different laws about how dark your window tint can be. In Wilmington, NC, you’ll need to make sure you’re within the legal limits to avoid fines.
Let’s dive into the most common tint percentages and what they mean for you.
Common Car Window Tinting Percentages in Wilmington, NC
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular car window tinting percentages you’ll find in Wilmington, NC, along with what each one offers.
50% Tint: The “Moderate” Choice
A 50% tint allows about half of the light to pass through your windows. It’s a great middle ground for those who want a balance between privacy, UV protection, and visibility.
- Best for: People who want a subtle change without going too dark.
- Benefits: 50% tint still provides UV protection and heat rejection without affecting visibility too much.
- Legal Compliance: In Wilmington, this percentage is fully legal for your front side windows.
35% Tint: A Little Darker, Still Legal
If you want a little more privacy but don’t want to go too dark, 35% tint is a great option. It provides a nice level of darkness, but you’ll still be able to see clearly at night.
- Best for: People who want a sleek look with a balance of privacy and practicality.
- Benefits: Offers more privacy and UV protection than 50% tint, and still allows enough light for safe driving.
- Legal Compliance: 35% tint is generally legal for front side windows in Wilmington, NC.
20% Tint: The Classic Look
If you like the idea of a darker tint, 20% is a popular option. It gives your car a cool, stylish look while still providing a decent level of visibility during the day.
- Best for: People who want more privacy and style.
- Benefits: Offers good heat rejection and privacy, while still maintaining enough visibility for daytime driving.
- Legal Compliance: You can use 20% tint on your rear side and back windows in Wilmington, NC, but the front windows might need to be lighter.
5% Tint: The “Limo” Look
This is the darkest tint you can get. It blocks 95% of visible light, making it very difficult for people to see inside your car. It’s often called “limo tint” because it’s what you see on the windows of luxury vehicles.
- Best for: People who want ultimate privacy and don’t mind sacrificing visibility, especially at night.
- Benefits: Excellent at blocking heat and UV rays, provides the most privacy.
- Legal Compliance: In Wilmington, NC, 5% tint is only legal for rear side and back windows. You can’t have 5% tint on your front windows unless you’re willing to take the risk of a ticket.
What’s the Best Tint Percentage for Your Car?
Choosing the right tint percentage comes down to your personal preferences and needs. Here are some things to consider when deciding:
- Privacy: If you value privacy above all else, you might prefer a darker tint like 20% or 5%. Just remember, the darker the tint, the harder it can be to see through at night.
- UV Protection: If you’re mainly concerned about UV protection and reducing heat in your car, a darker tint (like 35% or 20%) will give you the best results.
- Aesthetics: If you want your car to look sleek and modern, a 20% or 35% tint is usually a good choice.
- Legal Limits: In Wilmington, make sure you don’t go too dark on your front windows. Always check the local laws or consult a professional like NVS Customs to ensure your tint complies with the rules.
The Cost of Car Window Tinting in Wilmington, NC
The cost of window tinting can vary depending on the tint percentage you choose and your car’s make and model. On average, here’s what you can expect:
- Standard Tint (e.g., 50%, 35%): $150–$300 for a sedan, and more for larger vehicles.
- High-End Tint (e.g., Ceramic, 5% Tint): $300–$600 or more for high-performance tints that offer better heat rejection, UV protection, and durability.
At NVS Customs, you can expect top-quality materials and professional installation that ensures your tint will look great and last for years to come.
Tinting Laws in Wilmington, NC
Wilmington, NC, follows the state’s general window tinting laws, but it’s always best to be sure you’re within legal limits. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Front Side Windows: Must allow at least 35% of light to pass through.
- Back Side and Rear Windows: Can have any tint percentage, including 5%.
- Windshield: A non-reflective tint can be applied to the top 5 inches of the windshield.
Make sure to double-check with a professional like NVS Customs to ensure your tint is legal before installation.
The Benefits of Professional Car Window Tinting in Wilmington, NC
It might be tempting to try DIY tinting, but going the professional route has several benefits:
- Quality Materials: Professionals like NVS Customs use top-tier materials that last longer and provide better protection.
- Expert Installation: DIY tinting can result in bubbles, peeling, or uneven coverage. Professional installers ensure a flawless, long-lasting result.
- Legal Compliance: A professional installer will ensure your tint complies with Wilmington’s laws, so you don’t risk fines or being pulled over.
Maintaining Your Tinted Windows
After you get your windows tinted, it’s important to care for them to ensure they last. Here are a few tips:
- Wait at least 48 hours before rolling down your windows to give the tint time to cure.
- Clean your tinted windows with a soft cloth and avoid harsh chemicals.
- Avoid rolling your windows down too often, as it can cause the tint to peel or bubble.
Why Choose NVS Customs for Car Window Tinting Wilmington NC?
When it comes to car window tinting Wilmington NC, NVS Customs is your best choice. Here’s why:
- Top-Quality Films: They use high-quality films that offer superior UV protection, heat rejection, and durability.
- Expert Installers: The team at NVS Customs ensures that your tint job is flawless, every time.
- Customer Satisfaction: They’ll guide you through the process and make sure you get the tint that’s perfect for your needs.
NVS Customs Serving the Winnabow Community and Beyond in Wilmington, NC
NVS Customs is dedicated to serving the diverse needs of the local community of Wilmington, NC including individuals residing in neighbourhoods like Winnabow. With its convenient location near landmarks such as Town Creek Middle School, Town Creek Elementary School, Town Creek District Park and major intersections like US-17 S and US-17 N, (coordinates: 34.134149, -78.093057), we offer car window tinting services.
Get the car window tinting services in Wilmington, NC at Winnabow.
Navigate from Winnabow to NVS Customs
Conclusion
Choosing the right tint percentage for your car windows is a personal decision that depends on your needs for privacy, protection, and style. In Wilmington, NC, there are plenty of great options, but always make sure to stay within the legal limits. When in doubt, trust the professionals at NVS Customs to help you make the right choice for your car.
FAQs
- Can I tint my windshield in Wilmington, NC? You can only tint the top 5 inches of your windshield with a non-reflective film.
- How dark can I tint my front windows? In Wilmington, NC, your front windows must allow at least 35% of light to pass through.
- What’s the best tint for heat protection? Ceramic tint offers the best heat rejection, making it an excellent choice for keeping your car cool.
- Can I do my own tinting? While DIY tinting is possible, it’s usually better to go with a professional like NVS Customs for the best results.
- How long does window tint last? With proper care, your window tint should last around 5–10 years, depending on the quality of the film and installation.