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Legal Tint Limits by Window
- Front Windshield: No aftermarket tint of any kind is permitted. However, a non-reflective "glare strip" (or eyebrow) is generally allowed on the top 15 cm (6 inches) of the windshield.
- No film is permitted on the front driver and passenger windows.
- Rear Side Windows: Any darkness level is permitted. You can use anything from light shades to 5% "limo tint" on these windows.
- Rear Windshield: Any darkness level is permitted, provided the vehicle is equipped with both left and right outside rearview mirrors.
Understanding Tint Darkness
Tint levels are measured by the percentage of light they allow to pass through. The lower the percentage, the darker the tint.
- 0% VLT (Blackout): Theoretically blocks 100% of visible light, making the window completely opaque.
- 5% VLT (Limo Tint): The standard "darkest" option offered by most automotive shops. It is nearly impossible to see through from the outside.
- 20% VLT: A common dark shade that provides significant privacy while still allowing some visibility from the inside.
Legality in Alberta
While you can purchase 0% or 5% film, its use is strictly regulated:
- Rear Windows: Alberta allows any darkness level (including 0% or 5%) on the rear side windows and rear windshield, provided you have dual side mirrors.
- Front Windows: It is illegal to have any aftermarket tint on the front side windows or windshield.
| Tint Level | Name | Light Blocked | Visibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0% | Blackout | 100% | Opaque; no visibility |
| 5% | Limo Tint | 95% | Extremely difficult to see in |
| 20% | Dark | 80% | High privacy, difficult to see in |
| 35% | Medium | 65% | Balanced privacy and visibility |
| 50% | Light | 50% | Subtle shade, high visibility |
Note: Using extremely dark tint (below 20%) can significantly impair your ability to see at night, increasing the risk of accidents.
Window tinting offers several practical benefits beyond just aesthetics, ranging from health and safety to long-term cost savings.
1. UV Protection & Health
- Blocks 99% of UV Rays: High-quality window films act as a sunscreen for your car, blocking up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet radiation.
- Skin Safety: This significantly reduces the risk of sun damage, premature skin aging, and skin cancer during long drives.
2. Temperature Control & Fuel Efficiency
- Heat Rejection: Tints can block up to 60% of solar heat, keeping your cabin much cooler in the summer.
- Reduced AC Strain: Because the car stays cooler, you rely less on air conditioning, which can improve fuel efficiency and reduce wear on your vehicle's cooling system.
3. Interior Preservation
- Prevents Fading: Constant sun exposure causes leather, vinyl, and upholstery to fade and discolour. Tinting helps keep the interior looking new.
- Stops Cracking: Heat buildup can cause dashboards to warp or crack over time; tinting provides a protective barrier that extends the lifespan of these materials.
4. Safety & Security
- Shatter Resistance: In the event of an accident or break-in attempt, the tint film helps hold shattered glass together, preventing dangerous shards from flying into the cabin.
- Theft Deterrent: Darker rear windows obscure the view of valuables inside, making your vehicle a less attractive target for opportunistic thieves.
5. Enhanced Driving Comfort
- Glare Reduction: Tinting reduces glare from the sun and oncoming headlights by up to 80%, decreasing eye strain and improving overall road visibility.
- Privacy: It creates a "privacy bubble," allowing you and your passengers to feel more secure and less exposed in traffic or public parking areas.
Prices will vary from one store to another. There is no way to get the highest quality window tinting for cheap. The perfect finish requires knowledge, skill, and high-quality film.
FAQ
General Question
Window tinting usually takes between 2 and 3 hours to install.The time required for window tinting installation can vary based on several factors. These include the size and shape of the windows, the type of vehicle or building, and the complexity of the tinting design. Additionally, the skill level of the installer and the quality of the tinting materials can also influence the duration of the installation process.
Each film is guaranteed against discoloration or bubbling for a lifetime. The ceramic window tints are more effective at rejecting heat even at a lower level of darkness.