The Surprisingly Long History of Window Tinting on Vehicles
The first instance of window tinting happened much earlier than most people think. But even from early times, the benefit of tinting windows (not just car windows), has been very apartments. Whether for sun protection for your vehicle, sun protection for yourself or privacy, the practice of window tinting has outlasted the test of time.
Learn about the history of window tinting, as well as the benefits of adding a beautiful tint to your vehicle.
Early Beginnings of Window Tint
When you think of window tinting, you probably think that this is a fairly new feature for vehicles. It’s actually a much older practice than you think.
The earliest known window tinting-type process was performed in 3000 B.C. Later, in 1300 AD, Egyptian and Mesopotamian cultures used colored beads and decorative pots to create tints, a hint at what even later cultures could achieve. But you can thank the Romans for clear glass windows; they began adding them to their buildings in 100 AD.
If you’ve ever seen a castle or church with gorgeous stained glass, then you’re looking at window art that got its start during Medieval times. Builders added metallic oxide powders to stain the glass, a form of artistic window tinting.
Modern Window Tint Installation
Fast forward to the 1940s through 1960s. With more people incorporating cars into their daily lives, more people notice how temperature and glare from the sun causes issues while driving. One of the first tinting manufacturers in the US, introduced factory window tint in a few of their cars including the popular 1958 Chevy Impala.
Throughout the years, tinting developed into adhesives and laminates created by manufacturers such as 3M, and even darker tints for privacy were popular during the 1980s and 1990s. As you can see, window tinting has been around for awhile and will be sticking around.
Benefits of Getting Car Window Tint
- It keeps the heat in – Keeping the heat in is key not only for your house during the winter but especially for your vehicle. Window tinting your car provides your vehicle with more insulation but providing a layer of insulation on your windows that help keep the heat in during the cold winter months. This means it will take less time to heat up your car. There’s no need to wait around for your car to heat up; you can jump in sooner (even on below zero mornings), making a much better start to your day.
- Glare – Glare is dangerous no matter what season you are in, but it is especially bad in the winter. With the season being overall bad for road visibility and driving conditions (from sun reflecting off snow to snow squalls) you want to prevent glare as much as you can and keep your field of vision clear. Auto tinting reduces glare from the snow and from oncoming headlights, meaning you can drive safely, even when the roads are not in the best condition. Driving with a clear line of sight is one of the biggest reasons car tinting is worth the investment.
- Less fade – Window tinting your vehicle will prevent less fade year-round. What exactly does this mean? Tinting prevents the colors inside your vehicle from fading, keeping your stylish leather or cloth seats and interior looking newer for longer by protecting it from UV Rays. And, as a bonus, it also protects passengers from UV Rays. This is a major plus for the longevity and potential resale value of your car. Keeping it looking younger, inside and out, means it will help your future sale price.
Visit Our New Jersey Window Tint Shop
Now that you have all of the information about window tinting, from the past to the present, you must be looking for a window tint shop near you. Check out Auto Image, serving Brick, East Brunswick and the surrounding areas since 1987.
Our professional window tinters can help install your tinting to help protect you and your vehicle this winter season and beyond by providing you with the best results!
Auto Image offers many different types of window tinting available from 3M and SolarGard, two top brands. When you visit us, our experts will help you pick out the best window tint for you, at the price you want, and schedule your installation appointment.
Try Window Tinting Near You Today
Try before you buy (or book an appointment). Check out Auto Image’s Tint Simulator to see how window tint installation can improve the look of your vehicle.
Where to Find a Car Window Tint Shop in New Jersey
Contact Auto Image today to request an estimate or book an appointment for your window tinting. Give us a call at our Brick store at 732-920-0606 or our East Brunswick store at 732-254-2727, or visit us online.