Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Window Tint Heat Rejection Many window films advertise high infrared (IR) heat rejection (over 90%), leading some to believe they block a similar percentage of total solar heat. However, this isn't the complete picture. Let's clarify the difference between IR heat rejection and total solar heat rejection in window tint. Infrared Heat vs. Total Solar Heat While infrared radiation is what we feel as heat and constitutes about 53% of solar heat, it's only part of the equation. The remaining 47% comes from visible light (44%) and ultraviolet (UV) light (3%). Therefore, a 90% IR rejection rate doesn't fully represent a film's overall heat-blocking capability. The Components of Solar Heat Ultraviolet (UV) Light (3%): This invisible and harmful radiation causes fading, burns, and potential skin cancer. Quality window films block at least 99% of UV radiation, effectively eliminating its heat contribution. Visible Light (44%): Generally, more visible light means more heat. Darker films typically reject more heat by blocking more visible light, assuming similar film technology. Infrared (IR) Light (53%): This invisible radiation is what we primarily perceive as heat. While many films tout high IR rejection, it's crucial to remember it's only a portion of the total solar heat. The Impact of Window Film Shade For the same type of LLumar window film, both light and dark shades utilize the same IR and UV rejection technology. However, darker films will reject more total heat because they block a greater amount of visible light. Beyond Darkness: Film Technology Matters While shade plays a role, the underlying film technology is even more significant in heat rejection. For instance, a light multi-layer optical film like LLumar Stratos 70% can outperform carbon, dyed, or metallic films that are twice as dark. Total Solar Energy Rejection (TSER): The Complete Metric For a true understanding of a window film's heat-blocking effectiveness, the Total Solar Energy Rejection (TSER) rating is the most reliable metric. TSER considers the entire solar spectrum (UV, visible, and infrared light) and indicates the total percentage of solar heat rejected by the film. A 50% TSER means the film blocks 50% of the sun's total heat. Beware of Misleading Claims Be cautious of claims that focus solely on high infrared rejection percentages. This doesn't provide a complete picture of the film's overall ability to reduce heat. Relying on the TSER metric ensures a more informed decision about the level of heat rejection you can expect.

How dark can I tint my windows? In Oregon, the legal limit for passenger vehicles (sedans, coupes) must not be darker than 35% on the front side windows. As well as the rear side windows and rear window. For multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs, trucks, vans) it's the same as above for the front side windows no darker than 35%. However, the rear side windows and rear window have no darkness limit and you can use any tint darkness. Darker tints can reduce visibility at night. That's why it's important to choose a legal and safe level of darkness.