Your Guide to Choosing the Right Car Tint Percentage
Navigating the world of car customization can feel overwhelming, but a simple choice can make a huge difference in your vehicle's comfort, style, and protection: window tint. Here at Wraps on Whips, we've helped countless drivers from Lorton, Fairfax, and all over Northern Virginia find the perfect balance. The most common question we get? "What percentage should I get?"
It's a great question, and the answer isn't just about looks. It's a blend of your personal style, your driving habits, and most importantly, Virginia law. Let's break down the numbers and help you find your perfect match.
The Big Number: What is VLT?
Before we talk percentages, you need to understand one key term: VLT. That stands for Visible Light Transmission. In simple terms, it's the percentage of light that passes through your window. So, a 50% tint lets in 50% of the light, and a 20% tint lets in only 20%.
Think of it like this: The lower the number, the darker the tint.
Virginia Law: The Most Important Factor
In Virginia, tint laws are very specific and are strictly enforced, especially here in Northern Virginia. A lot of our customers come in worried about getting a ticket, and for good reason! Here’s what you need to know:
Front Side Windows: You can't go below 50% VLT.
Rear Side Windows & Rear Window: You can't go below 35% VLT.
Windshield: A non-reflective tint strip is permitted on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
This is the rulebook we follow for every single installation. We won't install a tint that could get you a ticket. It's not worth it for you or for us! Our job is to give you a perfect, legal, and beautiful result.
Finding Your "Just Right" Percentage
Now that we have the legal stuff out of the way, let's talk about what works for you.
The 50% (The Sunscreen): If your goal is primarily to block harmful UV rays and reduce interior heat without a super-dark look, 50% is a fantastic choice. It's a subtle change that provides huge benefits, like protecting your dashboard from cracking and keeping your car cooler on those sweltering I-95 commutes.
The 35% (The Classic): This is the most popular choice for rear windows in Virginia. It provides that classic "tinted" look, offering significant privacy for passengers and valuables. For a lot of our clients, this is the perfect combination of style and function.
The 20% (The Privacy Shield): We often get requests for this percentage, especially for rear side windows and the back windshield. While it's very dark and offers maximum privacy, it's important to be aware of the 35% VLT law for back windows in VA. So, if you're aiming for a darker look, we’ll work with you to find a solution that’s compliant and still gives you the aesthetic you want.
A Final Pro-Tip from the Pros
Don't forget about your car's factory glass! Many SUVs and trucks come with "privacy glass" on the rear windows. This glass is dyed, not a true tint, and it doesn't block UV rays or heat as well as a professional film.
Here’s the thing: When you put a new tint on top of this privacy glass, the percentages stack. So, a 35% film on top of a 50% privacy glass would result in a much lower VLT, potentially making it illegal. Our professional team always measures and accounts for this to ensure your final VLT is within legal limits.
When you visit our shop in Lorton, we'll walk you through all the options, show you samples of different percentages, and make sure you leave with a tint that not only looks amazing but also complies with Virginia law.
Ready to elevate your ride? Give us a call or stop by to talk to a member of our team!
