Window tinting involves applying a thin, transparent film to the interior surface of vehicle windows. This simple addition can have a significant impact on both the comfort and security of your car, truck, or SUV. Beyond aesthetics, window tinting serves practical functions, such as improving energy efficiency and providing enhanced privacy. Many vehicle owners find that a professional tint installation leads to a more comfortable driving experience while potentially lowering long-term costs.

Enhancing Energy Efficiency Through Window Tinting

One of the key benefits of window tinting is its ability to reduce heat absorption inside vehicles. Tinted windows block a portion of the sun’s rays, preventing them from penetrating the glass and heating up the car’s interior. As a result, the temperature inside the vehicle remains more stable, even during hot summer days. This leads to a significant decrease in the need to run the air conditioning, especially when the car has been parked in direct sunlight.

With reduced reliance on air conditioning, fuel consumption can also decrease. When less energy is required to cool the vehicle, the engine doesn’t need to work as hard, leading to a more efficient use of fuel. Over time, the improvement in fuel economy can make a noticeable difference, making window tinting not only an environmentally friendly choice but also one that benefits your wallet.

Improving Privacy

Privacy is another primary advantage of window tint installation. The tinted film makes it more difficult for onlookers to see into the vehicle, keeping the interior and any valuables out of sight. This added privacy can provide peace of mind, especially when parked in busy areas or unfamiliar places. By reducing visibility into the vehicle, window tints also help protect passengers from potential unwanted attention.

However, it’s vital to be aware of local regulations regarding the allowed darkness of window tints. Different regions have specific rules governing how dark your tints can be, particularly for the front windows. Being mindful of these regulations ensures that your vehicle stays compliant while still offering the desired level of privacy and comfort.

Long-Term Financial Benefits of Window Tinting

Beyond immediate comfort, window tinting offers long-term financial benefits. By reducing the need for constant air conditioning use, drivers can see a reduction in their energy consumption, directly impacting fuel costs. Over time, the savings can add up, helping to offset the initial cost of installing the window tints.

The longevity of professionally installed window tints further contributes to their value. Quality tints can last for many years without needing replacement, especially when properly maintained. The improved temperature control also means less strain on the vehicle’s air conditioning system, which can reduce wear and tear, potentially lowering maintenance costs over time.

Choosing the Right Window Tint for Your Vehicle

When selecting window tints for your car, it’s important to consider the different types available, including dyed, metallic, and ceramic options. Each type offers varying levels of heat rejection, durability, and UV protection. For example, ceramic tints are known for their superior heat-blocking capabilities, while dyed tints are often chosen for their affordability.

Factors such as the desired level of UV protection, the shade of the tint, and regional regulations should guide your choice. Opting for professional installation ensures that the tint is applied correctly, without air bubbles or imperfections that could compromise its effectiveness. A properly installed window tint not only looks seamless but also provides the best possible performance in terms of energy efficiency and privacy.

Get a Professional Window Tint Installation for Your Vehicle from Trick Trucks

When it’s time to enhance the look and comfort of your vehicle with a window tint, call the experts at Trick Trucks. We’re ready to help with a professional window tint made to the specifications of your vehicle. We offer a wide array of tinting options that are suitable and legal for use within your state. Give us a call at 1-866-60-TRICK (87425), or fill out the form on our website to schedule a consultation with our expert technicians.

The post How Window Tint Installation Can Improve Energy Efficiency and Privacy appeared first on Trick Trucks.

The sleek aesthetics and undeniable comfort of tinted windows have captivated car owners for decades. However, venturing into the realm of window tinting requires you to navigate a complex web of state-specific regulations. For residents of Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, and West Virginia, understanding the intricacies of their respective tinting laws is crucial to avoid legal repercussions and ensure safe driving practices. This short guide should serve as a baseline of the current permissible tint levels, medical exemptions, and additional regulations in each state.

Maryland:

Maryland’s tinting laws differentiate between sedans and SUVs/trucks. Sedan owners are permitted 35% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) tint on the top 5 inches of the windshield (the AS-1 line) and non-reflective 35% VLT tint on all side and rear windows. SUVs and trucks, however, enjoy the freedom of any darkness level on their rear windows, while adhering to the 35% VLT limit on the front side windows and the aforementioned windshield allowance. Additionally, reflective tint is strictly prohibited, and medical exemptions require physician documentation and displayed certificates.

Delaware

Delaware’s approach is more standardized, with a uniform 70% VLT requirement for all vehicle types, including the top 4 inches of the windshield (non-reflective tint only). This applies to both side and rear windows. Medical exemptions are permitted, but necessitate physician certification and displayed certificates.

West Virginia

West Virginia’s regulations offer some flexibility. The top 5 inches of the windshield must be non-reflective and allow at least 70% VLT. For sedans, side window tint cannot exceed 35% VLT, while SUVs/trucks have more leeway with a 50% VLT limit. Rear windows in both vehicle categories enjoy unrestricted darkness levels. Medical exemptions are recognized, but require displayed certificates. Reflective tint is prohibited.

Virginia

Virginia categorizes vehicles based on type and passenger capacity, dictating distinct tint allowances. Passenger cars (sedans, coupes, hatchbacks) and SUVs with fewer than 10 passenger seats fall under the same umbrella. These vehicles are permitted 35% VLT on the front side windows and the top 5 inches of the windshield (non-reflective only). The AS-1 line demarcates this permissible zone on windshields. Interestingly, rear side windows and the back windshield enjoy unrestricted darkness levels in these vehicle categories. For larger vehicles like vans, SUVs with 10 or more passenger seats, and trucks, the side window tint limit tightens to 50% VLT. However, these bigger vehicles have no restrictions for their rear side windows and back windshield.

As with its Mid-Atlantic neighbors, Virginia prohibits reflective tint entirely. Medical exemptions are recognized, but require documented justification from a licensed physician. And similar to other states, Virginia requires tint law compliance certificates.

Get a Professional, Legal Window Tint Installation for Your Vehicle from Trick Trucks

When it’s time to enhance the look and comfort of your vehicle with a legal window tint, call the experts at Trick Trucks. We’re ready to help with a professional window tint made to the specifications of your vehicle. We offer a wide array of tinting options that are suitable and legal for use within your state. Give us a call at 1-866-60-TRICK (87425), or fill out the form on our website to schedule a consultation with our expert technicians.

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When it comes to upgrading your vehicle, window tint installation is often overlooked. Many car owners consider it purely for aesthetic purposes, believing that it only enhances the vehicle’s appearance. However, window tint installation offers numerous benefits beyond just looks. From protecting your car’s interior to increasing privacy and reducing glare, the advantages of window tinting are worth considering for any automobile owner.

Enhanced Appearance and Style

Let’s start with the obvious benefit of window tint installation: it enhances the overall appearance and style of your vehicle. The sleek, darkened windows give your car a sophisticated and stylish look, instantly turning heads wherever you go. Whether you have a luxurious sedan, a sporty coupe, or a rugged SUV, window tinting can take your vehicle’s visual appeal to the next level.

Protection from Harmful UV Rays

Beyond aesthetics, window tinting provides essential protection for both you and your vehicle’s interior. Harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause significant damage over time. Excessive exposure to UV rays can lead to fading and cracking of your car’s upholstery, dashboard, and other interior components. Window tint acts as a shield, blocking up to 99% of UV rays from entering your vehicle. By reducing UV penetration, window tinting helps preserve the interior and extend the lifespan of your car’s upholstery and trim.

Heat Reduction for Increased Comfort

We’ve all experienced the unpleasant sensation of getting into a vehicle that has been sitting under the scorching sun for hours. The intense heat trapped inside the car can be unbearable. Window tint installation can significantly reduce the amount of heat entering your vehicle, making it more comfortable for both drivers and passengers. By blocking the sun’s heat, tinted windows keep your car cooler, reducing the need for excessive air conditioning and helping save fuel.

Glare Reduction for Safer Driving

Glare from sunlight, headlights, or other bright sources can be a major distraction while driving, compromising your safety on the road. Window tinting effectively reduces glare by minimizing the amount of light that enters the cabin. With reduced glare, you’ll experience improved visibility and enhanced driving conditions, particularly during dawn, dusk, or when driving in bright, sunny conditions. By reducing eye strain and distractions, window tint installation promotes safer driving.

Increased Privacy and Security

Privacy is an important aspect of vehicle ownership. Window tinting provides an added layer of privacy by making it more difficult for prying eyes to see inside your car. Whether you’re parked in a busy parking lot or driving through crowded streets, tinted windows offer a sense of security and keep your personal belongings out of sight. This added privacy can help deter potential thieves or opportunistic criminals, safeguarding your vehicle and its contents.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Benefits

In today’s world, energy efficiency and environmental consciousness are more important than ever. Window tinting contributes to both by reducing your vehicle’s reliance on air conditioning. By blocking heat from the sun, tinted windows help maintain a cooler interior temperature, reducing the need for constant air conditioning. This, in turn, results in improved fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. By opting for window tint installation, you’re not only benefiting yourself but also making a positive impact on the environment.

Window tint installation offers a range of benefits that go beyond mere aesthetics. From protecting your vehicle’s interior and reducing heat to increasing privacy and enhancing safety, tinted windows have become a popular choice for car owners. Consider the advantages of window tinting and how it can improve your driving experience.

If you’re ready to reap the benefits of window tint installation, contact Trick Trucks today at 1 (866) 60-TRICK (87425). Our team of experts will help you choose the right tinting solution for your vehicle, ensuring a seamless installation that enhances both the looks and functionality of your car. Don’t wait any longer—call us today and experience the many advantages of window tinting for yourself.

The post The Benefits of Window Tint Installation: More Than Just Looks appeared first on Trick Trucks.

If you’re thinking about tinting the windows of your car, you might be tempted to save some money and do it yourself. However, DIY window tinting is a bad idea for several reasons. In this article, we’ll go over some of the reasons why you should avoid DIY window tinting and why it’s a better idea to leave this job to the professionals.

Tinting requires specialized knowledge and tools

Window tinting is not just a matter of sticking a piece of film to the glass. It requires specialized knowledge and tools to get it right. For example, a professional window tinter will know the right type of film to use for your specific vehicle and will be able to apply it without leaving any bubbles or wrinkles. They will also know how to cut the film precisely to fit the shape of your windows.

If you attempt to do this yourself without the proper knowledge or tools, you’ll likely end up with an unsatisfactory result. Even worse, you may end up damaging your windows, which could be expensive to repair.

DIY tinting is more time-consuming than you think

Window tinting is a time-consuming process, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. Even if you follow a tutorial step-by-step, you may still find yourself struggling with the process. A professional window tinter, on the other hand, can get the job done quickly and efficiently, so you can enjoy your newly tinted windows without having to spend a whole day on the project.

You risk getting pulled over for an illegal tint

Each state has different laws regarding the percentage of tint that is allowed on vehicle windows. If you DIY your tint job and apply too much film, you may be risking getting pulled over by the police and getting fined. A professional window tinter will know the legal limits for your area and will be able to apply the right amount of film to keep you legal.

You won’t get a warranty with a DIY tint job

If you’re not satisfied with your DIY tint job, you’re out of luck. You won’t be able to return the film or get a refund, and you won’t have a warranty to cover any defects or issues with the film. When you have your windows tinted by a professional, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing that you’re covered if anything goes wrong.

Professional tinting looks better and lasts longer

One of the biggest benefits of having your windows tinted by a professional is that the final result will look better and last longer than a DIY job. A professional window tinter will be able to apply the film evenly and precisely, so it will look great from every angle. Additionally, a professional job will last longer and be more durable than a DIY job, which means you won’t have to worry about the film peeling or fading after a few months.

In conclusion, DIY window tinting is a risky and time-consuming process that should be left to the professionals. If you want your windows tinted, it’s a much better idea to hire a professional window tinter who has the knowledge, tools, and experience to get the job done right.

Trick Trucks is a company that specializes in truck customization, including window tinting. They have a team of experienced window tinters who can help you choose the right type of film for your vehicle and apply it perfectly. With their help, you can enjoy the benefits of having tinted windows without any of the hassle or risk of a DIY job.

If you’re interested in having your windows tinted by a professional, call Trick Trucks at 1 (866) 60-TRICK (87425) to schedule an appointment. They’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and help you get the best window tinting job possible. 

The post Why You Shouldn’t DIY Your Window Tint appeared first on Trick Trucks.

It’s Older Than You Think

Window tinting for cars and trucks first became commercially available around the time of World War II. Early window tinting sprays for home users tried to copy the same technology that manufacturers used. These new products were unreliable and mostly ineffective, not to mention messy. But years passed before advances in technology gave rise to improved vehicle window tinting.

In the 1950s, drag racers would use colored plexiglas on their hot rods. The colored plexiglas mimicked the look of window tinting and looked incredible, but all the same, the plexiglas wasn’t the same as actual tinted glass. While imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, this just didn’t work out.

Modern Advances in Window Tinting

It wasn’t until the 1960s that a breakthrough arrived. Retail-sold window films were an innovation considered superior to the spray-on products initially available. But these new window films were formulated with special dyes that would eventually fade to an odd purplish color. Hot and humid weather would also cause the window films to start bubbling. In response to the discoloration problem, the next wave of window tinting products was reformulated with metal particles added to the dye. While the particles stopped the weird discoloration, they caused another unexpected problem. This unexpected problem appeared in the form of electronic interference. Onboard electronics are an essential component of any automobile, so if you have any trouble with your GPS or your car radio, now you might know why. The metallic dye can even affect your cell phone! Modern window tinting uses nanotechnology to prevent electronic interference and potential discoloration.     

It’s Legal Everywhere

Did you know that window tinting is legal in every state? As we touched upon above, there are many local laws and regulations regarding window tints. You’ll have to obey all of these laws, so if you’re wondering how dark you can make your tint, consult your state’s laws about visible light transmission percentage, or VLT. A simple online search can tell you all need to know about VLT levels and limits.

For All of Your Truck Needs

Does your truck need servicing or brand new tinted windows that abide by Maryland tinting regulations? Trick Trucks is happy to service your vehicle and make sure your truck is in great shape all year long! With over forty years of experience servicing trucks, we have the expertise and equipment you need. Contact Trick Trucks online or by calling 1-866-60-TRICK. To find out more about our services and trucks, follow us on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube.

The post Some Fun Facts About Window Tinting appeared first on Trick Trucks.

If you are looking to tint the windows on your truck, make sure that you familiarize yourself with Maryland tinting regulations first to avoid a ticket or fine. Here is a simple guide to decoding the laws and staying street legal. This guide will cover the most need to know info about how window tinting works in Maryland.

Why Window Tint?

Window tinting, aside from preventing you from squinting your eyes constantly while driving, will help protect the interior of your vehicle from cracking or fading. The window tint will protect your car from excess ultraviolet light to protect it on the road or in the parking lot. Window tint also helps to protect your skin from UV light as well, which can lead to premature aging and even skin cancer.

Maryland Tinting Regulations

First things first, the window tinting percentage refers to the amount of light that is allowed into the car. A 50% window tint would allow 50% of the outside light in, and a 5% window tint would only allow 5% of the outside light in. Even though it seems counterintuitive, 5% is actually more than 50%!

During your Maryland state inspection, they will check your window tint to make sure that it follows Maryland tinting regulations. The basic guideline is that windows can have window tint added to allow up to 35% light in. Most cars come with windows that already allow between 70-75% light transmittance, so the average car could have 50% window tint film added to make a total of 35% light transmittance. If that sounds confusing, don’t worry—the experts at Trick Trucks are here to help!

If you have a passenger car, you have to meet the 35% requirement on every single window in your car. The brake light in your back window cannot be covered by tint, but the window can be. If you have a truck, you must meet the 35% requirement on your front and passenger door windows, not your front or back windshields.

For All of Your Truck Needs

Does your truck need servicing or brand new tinted windows that abide by Maryland tinting regulations? Trick Trucks is happy to service your vehicle and make sure your truck is in great shape all year long! With over forty years of experience servicing trucks, we have the expertise and equipment you need. Contact Trick Trucks online or by calling 1-866-60-TRICK. To find out more about our services and trucks, follow us on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube.

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Are you in the market for tinted windows? While there are a number of practical advantages to tinted windows, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is following the proper rules and regulations for the state of Maryland. All post manufacture window tint film on motor vehicles registered in the state are regulated by Maryland State Law. Most regulated glass on vehicles allows for 70-75 percent of light. In order to meet the typical State requirement of 35 percent light transmittance, you will need to apply 50 percent post manufacture window tint film.

• Passenger Cars (2 door, 4 door, station wagons) – All windows on these vehicles must meet a requirement of 35 percent light transmittance. In addition, the brake light in the back window may not be covered by tint.

• Trucks, Vans, SUVS: The windows immediately left and right of the driver are the only ones that are regulated on these types of vehicles, and they must meet the same 35 percent light transmittance requirement.

• Windshields: You may not place post manufacture window film on the front windshield below the AS1 mark or 5 inches down horizontally from the top, whichever is less.

• Tint Colors: Yellow, red, amber and reflective (mirrored) post manufacture window tint film are prohibited.

• Medical Waiver: According to Maryland Transportation Article Title 22, Section 406, a person who must be protected from the sun for medical reasons is exempt from the 35 percent light transmittance requirement. This exemption applies to all regulated windows other than the windshield below the AS1 mark or 5 inches from the top. The vehicle owner must have a written certification that details his/her medical need for tinted windows from a physician licensed to practice medicine within the state of Maryland.

• Limousines: Post manufacture window tint film may not be placed on the windshield or immediately left and right of the driver.

• Commercial Vehicles (dump trucks, over road tractors, tow trucks) – Commercial vehicles cannot have post manufacture window tint film on the windshield nor immediately left and right of the driver that reduces light transmittance below 70 percent.

Truck Accessories from Trick Trucks

Looking to get your truck ready for your next road trip? Trick Trucks is here to help. With over forty years of experience servicing trucks, we have the expertise and equipment you need. Contact Trick Trucks online or by calling 1-866-60-TRICK. To find out more about our services and trucks, follow us on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube.

The post A Guide to Maryland Tinting Regulations appeared first on Trick Trucks.

Many people tint their vehicle’s windows as a way of reducing glare, heat, and enhancing privacy. Some vehicle owners opt to use a window-tinting kit instead of hiring a professional. While this might save you some money, it could cost you in the long run and is generally not a wise idea. Here are a few reasons why you should consider hiring a professional for your window tinting needs.

Local Tinting Regulations

Tinted windows are a safety concern for law enforcement, and many cities and states will have limits on how dark you can tint your windows. A professional window tinting company will have up to date knowledge on window tinting regulations, and make sure you stay on the right side of the law. There are no assurances that you are within regulations when you use a DIY window tinting kit.

Quality Concerns

The film in window tinting kits is often times flimsy and temperamental compared to the high quality materials that a professional will use. It can also be hard for first-time users to work with the window film, and just a slight breeze can cause creases, crinkles, and other unsightly errors. Investing in a professional service will ensure that you get a quality product.

Get It Right The First Time

Removing window film is far more difficult than applying it, so trying to correct errors is incredibly difficult. That could also mean spending more money on another kit. With a professional tinting company, you have a guarantee that they will get the job done right or your money back.

Associated Costs

If you’re trying to protect your car’s interior from fading and cracking, cheap low-quality window tinting may not provide adequate protection. Investing in a bit more money for mid to high-grade window tinting from a professional is often a much more worthwhile investment. So, even if the initial costs of a do-it-yourself kit are cheaper, a professional service may turn out to be more efficient in the long run.

Window Tinting from Trick Trucks

Looking to get your truck ready for your next road trip? Trick Trucks is here to help. With over forty years of experience servicing trucks, we have the expertise and equipment you need. Contact Trick Trucks online or by calling 1-866-60-TRICK. To find out more about our services and trucks, follow us on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, Google+, and YouTube.

The post Why Tinting Windows Yourself is a Bad Idea appeared first on Trick Trucks.

Used by musicians, actors and actresses, and dignitaries of all sorts, window tinting has helps many people avoid the sun and limelight. But what about the general public’s use of window tinting? Well, there are many benefits of tinting your windows.

Looking Out

We use sunglasses on our eyes to help remove the glare and brightness of the sun distracting our driving, so why not use that same common sense in our vehicles? With window tinting, you will be able to look out of your vehicles without squinting or missing something in your way. Window tinting will shield your eyes from powerful glares as well as UV rays.

Looking In

While window tinting is valued for giving famous people their privacy, it will also give you some as well. It is not only a great way to avoid people seeing into your vehicle, but it can help deter thieves from scoping your vehicle out. Window tinting is a great asset to businesses and commercial vehicles that need to have a laptop or other equipment in their vehicle. Tinting will allow you to leave your items within plain sight without having to worry about them being stolen.

Are You Sensitive to Heat?

Many of us have a hard time dealing with the heat of the sun beating down on us during the spring and summer months. If you have a hard time dealing with heat or burn easily, window tinting can help! It will help to make your car cooler by reducing the heat that is generated by direct sunlight. Window tinting can reduce heat in your vehicle by nearly 70 percent.

Keeps Glass from Shattering

One of the leading causes of harm in car accidents in shattering glass. Glass can cause cuts and injury during accidents and can be hard to clean up and restore your vehicle to normal. But with window tinting, the tinted film will help to keep the window together, even if it does break.

Maryland Laws

Maryland law differs from sedans to SUV and vans. No vehicle is allowed to have tinting on the top five inches of their windshield, metallic, or mirrored tinting. Sedans must have tinting that allows 35 percent of light into the vehicle from their side and rear windows. SUV and vans are allowed to use any darkness level on the back side and rear windows but must allow more than 35 percent of light into the front side windows.

Virginia Laws

Unlike Maryland, Virginia residents are allowed to have reflective tinting on both sedans, SUVs, and vans but it must be no more than 20 percent reflective. Only non-reflective tinting is allowed on the windshield and it is only allowed above the AS-1 line.  Sedans must have tinting that allows more than 50 percent of light into the front side windows and more than 35 percent of light on the back side and rear windows. SUVs and vans are allowed to have any darkness on the back side and rear windows but must allow more than 50 percent of light into the front side windows.

For more information or to have your vehicle’s window tinting completed by the professionals, call your local Trick Trucks location!

Trick Trucks

If you want to know more about our custom van shelving installations or our other services, please contact Trick Trucks today by calling 1-866-60 TRICK or click here! We have been working with trucks and their drivers since 1974, and we have all of the answers and accessories you need. We also invite you to explore our other Exterior Truck Accessories while you’re here.

The post Benefits of Window Tinting appeared first on Trick Trucks.

First, make sure you know Maryland Window Tinting Laws.

Truck Window Tinting Services in Maryland

Each Trick Trucks location in Maryland offers window tinting services for both cars and trucks. We can customize your car or truck to match your vision of what your vehicle should be. Best of all, all work is guaranteed and all factory warrantees apply.

Trick Trucks has been helping people like you customize their trucks for more than 30 years. Let us help you!

Benefits of Window Tinting

1. Tinted windows will instantly enhance the look of your truck.
2. Of course, window tinting also has other benefits, namely privacy. After all, this is a reason limousines have tinted windows, right?
3. Tinted windows also help keep UV Rays at bay. These rays account for 90% of the symptoms of premature skin aging. Tinted windows can help to block up to 99.9% of both UVA and UVB rays.
4. Window tinting also helps keep your truck cool in the summer, so you will use less air conditioning and less gas.
5. Tinted windows help reduce glare, which will dramatically reduce the strain on your eyes.
6. Finally, tinted windows help protect your truck’s interior from fading.

If you have any questions about Window Tinting in Maryland or want to know more about one of our many other Interior Truck Accessories and Exterior Truck Accessories, please contact Trick Trucks today by calling 1-866-60 TRICK or click here! Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

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