As you decide about window tint for your home or office you’re probably wondering, “How dark should I go?” There are a couple of tricks to understanding the darkness or light-blocking power of window tinting, and your Homeowner’s Association may actually have regulations regarding the level of tint you use on your home. When making a decision, understanding what is visual light transmission will play a key role.

Technically called “visible light transmission”, the less light that passes through a lens or tinted glass, the darker it appears. This also dictates how many UV rays can pass through the glass. The VLT is a crucial part of figuring out how much heat protection, UV protection, and security protection you get. Creators of films and tinting services came up with a method for measuring “how dark” a tint is. This is how the VLT meaning was born, and there are a few things you should know about it.

How is VLT Tint Calculated?

VLT tint is calculated by considering both the VLT of the window film and the VLT of the existing glass. For example, if a window has a VLT of 80% and you add a film with a VLT of 50%, the overall VLT is calculated by multiplying the two percentages: 0.80 x 0.50 = 0.40, or 40% VLT. This means 40% of the visible light will pass through.

The VLT Spectrum: Understanding Different Levels

Window films come in a variety of visible light transmission (VLT) percentages, typically ranging from 5% to 70%. Here’s a breakdown of what each VLT range offers:

Low VLT (5% – 20%): These films block a significant amount of visible light (80% – 95%). They offer the most significant heat rejection and glare reduction but also limit visibility considerably. These are typically used for car rear windows or on buildings where privacy is a major concern.
Medium VLT (25% – 40%): These films offer a good balance between heat rejection, glare reduction, and maintaining some level of visibility (60% – 75% of light transmission). They are popular choices for car side windows and homes where you want significant sun control without sacrificing too much natural light.
High VLT (50% – 70%): These films allow a higher percentage of visible light to pass through (50% – 70%). They offer some heat rejection and glare reduction while maintaining a more open and airy feel. These are ideal for situations where preserving the natural light is a priority, such as sunrooms or office buildings.

Beyond VLT: The Color of Your Window Tint

However, there’s another factor to consider: Color. You may think of window tints as black or brown, but those are just the most popular hues—you can get a window tinted in virtually any color. The method for calculating VLT doesn’t change, but you may notice a color value attached to the calculation.

For example, a green-tinted window might be “green 45”. Do your research beforehand when determining the color and tint level you’d like for your home or business. Or speak with one of our technicians for their expert opinion on visible light transmission and its effect on tint levels.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between VLT and light transmittance?
VLT and light transmittance are essentially the same, referring to the percentage of visible light that passes through glass or film.

2. How do UV rays affect my home?
UV rays can fade furniture and flooring and contribute to skin damage. Window tints with UV protection help mitigate these effects.

3. What is VLT tint best for homes?
For homes, a VLT of 40-60% is often ideal, balancing natural light with privacy and glare reduction.

4. Can too low a VLT affect visibility?
Yes, a low VLT can reduce visibility, making it harder to see outside. It’s crucial to choose a tint level that meets your needs without compromising safety.

5. How does light pass through the glass with tints?
Tinted glass reduces the amount of light that passes through, helping to control brightness, glare, and heat.

Pacific Window and Tint: Your Window Film Experts

By understanding VLT and the other factors at play, you can make an informed decision when choosing window tint for your car or home. Pacific Window and Tint is here to guide you through the process. Our team of experts can answer your questions, recommend the perfect window film for your needs, and provide professional installation to ensure a flawless finish.

Need a quote for window tinting installation? Still curious about visible light transmission? Contact Pacific Window Tinting today