Arkansas Window Tint Laws

Arkansas Window Tint Laws

This falls under Arkansas Code Title 27. Transportation § 27-37-306

Since 1994 the automotive window tinting laws are as follows:

Standard Vehicle (Sedan or Coupe)

  • Windshield
    • Can have an Eyebrow extending no more than 5 inches from the center of the windshield
  • Side Windows (Front and Rear Doors)
    • No darker than 25% VLT*
  • Rear Window (Backglass)
    • No darker than 10% VLT*

Multiple Purpose Passenger Vehicle (SUV, Truck, Bus, Trailer, Motor Home)

  • Windshield
    • Can have an Eyebrow extending no more than 5 inches from the center of the windshield
  • Side Windows (Front Doors ONLY)
    • No darker than 25% VLT*
  • Rear Window(s) (Back Doors, Quater Windows, and Backglass)
    • No darker than 10% VLT*

Physician’s Certification:

(e)(1)(A)?A motorist is exempt from this section if the motorist is diagnosed by a physician as having a disease or disorder, including, but not limited to, albinism or lupus, for which the physician determines it is in the best interest of the motorist to be exempt from the requirements of this section. ?The motorist shall carry in his or her motor vehicle a physician’s certification.

Arkansas Code Title 27. Transportation § 27-37-306.

    Any Vehicle

    • Windshield
      • It may be covered in no darker than 50%
    • Side Windows (Front Doors ONLY)
      • No darker than 20% VLT*
    • Rear Window(s) (Back Doors, Quater Windows, and Backglass)
      • No darker than 10% VLT*

      Interested in having your windows tinted? Check out our automotive window tinting page for more information on our products. Give us a call today or schedule online.

      How to Know When It’s Time to Replace Windows

      In general, you probably don’t spend a whole lot of time thinking about your windows. They’re really the kind of thing you only think about if there’s a problem with them, and it makes sense… they’re meant to be looked through, not at!

      However, all windows do have a lifespan. Your car windshield, for example, will most likely only last for five years or so, if you drive very frequently. Of course, your windshield could last a lot longer if you don’t drive as much, or if you just have good luck. But a car windshield that has sustained damage, like cracks or chips, will most likely need to be replaced pretty soon.

      How long do residential windows last?

      Luckily, windows in the home will most likely last for 15-20 years– which is good, since replacing windows can be quite an investment.

      This estimated lifespan can differ depending on many factors, like the materials that the windows are made from, and your geographical location.

      Windows that work perfectly in a climate that’s consistently warm might not work as well in a humid continental climate like the American Midwest. A humid continental climate is one that varies greatly between seasons, but gets precipitation all year.

      Glass expands when it’s heated and contracts when it’s cold, and the climate in the American Midwest can change rapidly. These kinds of rapid change can cause stress on the glass, eventually resulting in damage or breakage.

      What are some signs that I should replace my windows?

      Even if your windows look fine, you might still be due for a replacement. There are a few telltale signs you should pay attention to that can let you know when you should start preparing to replace the windows in your home.

      Change in energy bills

      If you’ve been living in the same house for a while, chances are good that you know what to expect from your energy bills regardless of season. They’re probably a little higher when the weather is very cold or hot, but you’re used to it.

      You should take note, however, if your energy bills are much higher than usual. This can be a sign that your home isn’t running as efficiently as it could be. While higher energy bills can be the result of many things– including a faulty or poorly maintained HVAC system– if your windows are 15-20 years old, they might be the culprit.

      Windows that have passed their prime have typically lost the seal that’s necessary to, well, seal the indoors from the outdoor environment. This means that extra air can escape, making your HVAC system work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.

       

      Drafty

      If you’re relaxing at home and happen to feel a draft, or a mysterious breeze, chances are good that the seal on your windows has loosened up enough to allow outside air to enter the home.

      Not only is this bad for your energy bills, it also means that unwanted visitors (like spiders, ants, and other insects) can easily enter your home.

       

      Condensation

      If you notice that your windows look foggy or have collected condensation between the panes, this is a surefire sign that something isn’t right. The space between the two panes should stay dry, and if water is entering the space it means that there’s a problem with the window seal.

      Call for a consultation

      If you’re experiencing higher energy bills but aren’t sure whether it’s time to replace your windows or try something else, give the experts here at Autobahn a call. We’d be happy to give you a consultation to let you know whether residential window tinting will help block light and heat from entering your space, bringing your energy bills right back down where they belong.

      What’s the difference between house and car window tinting?

      You might think of auto glass tinting as a relatively new phenomenon– something that became popular for celebrities in the age of paparazzi, with the intent of creating privacy for the passengers inside a vehicle.

      However, window tinting for cars and homes has actually been around since the mid-20th century.

      The concept of window tinting has been around for just about as long as glass windows have existed– and the first recorded glass windows were used by the Romans in about 100 AD.

      Windows are necessary to let in the light, which was especially important in the days before widely accessible electricity. However, sunlight brings heat with it. For non-air-conditioned spaces, additional heat brought in by sunlight can become unbearable.

      This is true for both auto and house window tinting, and both types of window tinting serve essentially the same purpose: to block some degree of light from entering a space, while still preserving visibility through the glass.

      How do car window tinting and house window tinting work?

      Throughout the history of window tinting, people have tried a variety of methods– from painting windows to dyeing the glass itself.

      Today, there are a handful of different window tinting methods that are popular for both cars and houses alike. These methods involve different materials, with different strengths and weaknesses, but all of them are essentially similar; window tint is made from thin sheets of material applied directly to the inside of the window.

      How are home window tinting and car window tinting methods alike?

      Though the requirements and legal limits for home and car window tinting are different, they work in the same way: a thin film of tinted material that’s used to block sunlight from entering the space, whether it’s a home or a vehicle.

      There are some exceptions to this rule– for instance, some cars come with “factory tinting”. In these cases, the tint isn’t a separate aftermarket material applied to the glass. Instead, the actual glass itself is dyed, for the purpose of blocking light.

      Typically, factory tinting only blocks about 15-25% of the light entering the vehicle. Aftermarket tinting is usually a higher percentage, depending on local tinting laws.

      Car Interior windows tinted by SunStop Window Tinting

      How is home window tinting different from car window tinting?

      Though window tinting is essentially the same regardless of context, there are some differences in the materials that are used to achieve the desired level of tint.

      Car windows are structurally different from typical home windows– in a car, the glass is usually curved to some degree. This means that special window tinting film that’s designed to shrink is used for cars, in order to achieve the perfect fit.

      If car window tinting film were used on windows inside the home, it might actually cause them to shatter due to the shrinking effect, which would put unnecessary strain on the glass!

      Additionally, the materials used for home window tinting and car window tinting behave differently in relation to light. Car window tint absorbs the light (and heat). The car’s movement creates wind, which is effective for cooling down the absorbed heat.

      Meanwhile, tinted house windows reflect light back to the outdoors, preventing it from entering the space. Since house windows are static and there’s no reliable source of wind to cool down absorbed heat, the reflection is necessary to prevent extra heat from entering the home.

      Ready to get your windows tinted?

      If you’re ready to get your home or vehicle’s windows tinted, look no further than the experts at Autobahn in North Little Rock. Give us a call or reach out to schedule an appointment today!

      How window tinting protects you

      Window tints are one of the most underappreciated features in our cars. You may not think about it, but these tints are protecting us in so many ways. Window tints are especially designed to make our vehicles not only more stylish, but safer too. It doesn’t matter if its bright lights, the sun’s harmful rays or even prying eyes; your windows tints will keep it all out.

      To learn about some of the ways that window tinting can protect you, please read the list below:

      • Window tint protects you from the sun’s harmful rays – Sunshine isn’t all bad, but it isn’t all good either. UV rays have been linked to cancers and many other skin conditions, so it is good to limit your exposure to the sun when possible. In this case, window tinting essentially acts like sunscreen. This will help keep you and your passengers safe and sunburn free. This UV protection will save not only you, but your interior as well. Sun fading is the most common way that car interiors deteriorate, and tinted windows will limit the damages your interior incurs from the sun’s rays.

       

      • Vehicles with tinted windows stay cooler – In the same way that they protect you from UV rays, your tinted windows will keep your car cooler in those blistering summer months. Nothing’s worse than getting into a car and burning your legs and arms on the seemingly 1000 degree interior. If you’re looking to avoid painful situations like this, then tinted windows are the answer to your problem.

       

      • Your cars windows will be less likely to shatter – Your new window tint will also add an additional layer of protection and structure to your cars windows. This will make them less likely to chip or shatter.


      • Window tint makes your vehicle more private – With tinted windows, you’ll no longer have to make uncomfortable eye contact with strangers when you’re stuck in traffic or parked at a red light. Now, of course there are laws regulating just how dark you can make your car’s windows. But we all love our privacy, and tinted windows are one sure way to make your car feel more private. 


      • Cars with tinted windows just look better – Ever wonder why nearly all the higher end cars have tinted windows? If you feel like investing in your car’s appearance, then tinted windows are the way to go. Not only are they functional, but they will leave your car with a sleek and newer look.


      • Window tint reduces the reflectivity of your car’s windows – Tinted windows not only make your car more comfortable, but they will make it safer too. Reflections on the road are a constant hazard, especially near sunset. Tinted windows reduce the reflectivity of your car’s windows, and will reduce the amount of bright reflections on our roads. 

       

      For more information about window tinting, or if you would like to schedule an appointment for window tinting services, reach out to Autobahn Window Tinting today!

      The pros of residential window tinting

      Usually when you think of window tinting, you think of car window tinting. Did you know that you can also add value to your home, as well as increasing your safety, comfort, and style, by tinting your residential windows? A seemingly simple process of applying a transparent sheet of film to glass can have tremendous benefits and impact on the curb appeal, privacy, and security of your home, as well as help you save money in the long run on heating/cooling costs and protect your furnishings from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

      Benefits of residential window tinting

      • Enhances home safety and security: Applying a thin film on your windows adds a layer of protection that can help prevent your glass from shattering if an unfortunate or harmful impact occurs, either due to an accident, a natural occurrence such as a tree falling, or an attempted home invasion. 

       

      • Prevents heat loss and gain: Residential window tinting can help your home’s glass surfaces reject infrared heat, which can cut down on your cooling costs during the summer. The added insulation provided by an applied layer of window tinting film also helps keep heat from escaping your home during the winter. 

       

      • Protects interior furnishings from fading: Your home’s upholstery, carpeting, curtains, and any other fabric surfaces will fade if exposed to UV light. Residential window tinting can drastically reduce this exposure, thus reducing the severity and rapidity of fading.

      Types of residential window tinting

      In addition to car window tinting, Autobahn Window Tinting offers several residential window tinting options. These products are supplied by Hüper Optik and described below.

      Hüper Optik Ceramic Series:

      This is the most popular window film among central Arkansas residential window tinting consumers. A wide range of options exist in this series, allowing you to customize your residential window tinting package to fit the specific needs of your home. This product offers energy rejection rates of up to 65% and infrared rejection rates of up to 86%. This is a nano-ceramic technology patented by Hüper Optik since 1998 and innovated upon since then. Customers who choose this product can count on a crystal clear view that is unobstructed by haziness or blue-toned hues.

      Hüper Optik Select Series:

      This is the highest performing non-reflective window film we offer, with energy rejection rates of up to 72% and infrared rejection rates of up to 98%. This is a multi-layer film that uses nano technology to allow very fine particles of silver and gold to allow the most amount of light to pass through your windows while rejecting the maximum amount of heat without increasing the visual reflectivity of the glass.

      Hüper Optik Fusion Series:

      This option offers a fusion of green technology and energy efficiency, with energy rejection rates up to 77%. This reflective film helps you enhance privacy and energy efficiency of your home.

      Autobahn Window Tinting offers specialists who can help you customize a window tinting plan to fit your home. Call today!

      Things to know about car window tinting

      Thinking about tinting your car windows? Maybe your friend recently got theirs done, so now you’re curious. Perhaps you just purchased a new vehicle and want to make it your own. If you don’t know much about car window tinting, we’ve got you covered. Everything from the benefits of car window tinting to the types of car window tinting available is reviewed in this blog post.

      Benefits of car window tinting

      Car window tinting does more than just make your vehicle look snazzy and customized. It can help you increase your comfort and safety in the vehicle, as well as preserve the life and condition of your vehicle’s interior. When you are driving, your skin is exposed to the sun, whose ultraviolet (UV) light can cause skin damage. Car window tinting can block UV exposure. Car window tinting can also block heat from entering your vehicle. This is especially important during an Arkansas summer! Car window tinting can help your vehicle’s glass stay intact in the event of an impact. Windows that have been tinted are less likely to shatter. Car window tinting also offers privacy benefits. As long as you stay within the legal limit allowed in your particular state, you can darken your windows to a significant degree that will help prevent other people from seeing what’s inside your vehicle. This can help deter any unwanted interest or potential break-in activity or attempts.

      Types of car window tinting to choose from at Autobahn:

      • “Autobahn Black” – Color-stable deep-dyed film: This product offers low reflectivity, a sophisticated, dark look to your windows, scratch-resistant coating, and a lifetime warranty. This window film does not interfere with radio frequencies or electronic control systems. It rejects 43% of total solar energy and 99% of UV light.

       

      • “Autobahn Black Ceramic” – Dark nano-ceramic dispersion: This car window tinting product uses nano-ceramic dispersion technology to reduce the low-angle haze effect seen in other “large particle” dispersion films. This product’s blend of ceramics provide a broad-spectrum infrared rejection that exceeds what is offered by some other products. It rejects 63% of total solar energy, 60% of infrared light, and 99% of UV light. 

       

      • “Autobahn Air Ceramic” – Clear nano-ceramic dispersion: This car window tinting option allows you to gain the benefits of window tinting without the traditional dark look. This product allows maximum clarity and visibility due to its high light transmission, paired with high heat rejection so that your vehicle is still kept comfortable and safe. This product is virtually clear when applied on glass. It rejects 44% of total solar energy, 68% of infrared light, and 99% of UV light.  

       

      • “Autobahn Ceramic i3” – multi-layer ceramic: This is the latest innovation in multi-layer ceramic car window tinting products, offering the highest levels of heat rejection, color, and clarity. It rejects 71 % of total solar energy, 93% of infrared light, and 99% of UV light.

       

      Autobahn Window Tinting is here to help you keep your vehicle safe and comfortable. Call today!

      Window Film: A Superior Investment For Your Car and Home

      You probably wouldn’t go out for a day at the beach without packing some sort of sun protection– sunscreen, a hat, a coverup.

      After all, exposure to the sun’s UV rays can have all kinds of negative effects on your health, and it puts you at increased risk of skin cancer.

      But one thing you may not have realized is that the sun can cause major damage to just about everything, not just your skin!

      What kinds of damage do UV rays cause?

      In addition to causing sunburn and increased risk of skin cancer for people, UV rays that enter your home can cause discoloration and fading to your belongings.

      If your home gets a lot of direct sunlight, try moving one of your carpets or framed pictures on the wall. You might notice that the color of the floor or wall is significantly darker where it was being protected from the sun!

      While discoloration is obviously less of a concern than skin cancer, it’s still damage– and could be disastrous for valuable furniture or treasured family portraits.

      ceramic 30

      How does direct sunlight affect my home and vehicle?

      In addition to causing fading, direct sunlight entering a home or a car can drastically increase the temperature– making the environment uncomfortable or even dangerous!

      While it’s often recommended for people to put up light-colored curtains to reflect light and heat back out of their homes, you can’t cover up every window with a curtain, especially not in your car.

      Properly installed window film can make your home or car a lot more comfortable during the hot summer months.

      If your home is cooler and more comfortable, you won’t have to rely on your air conditioning quite as much– which means reduced energy bills! Plus, reduced energy usage is planet-friendly.

      How is window film different from window tinting?

      Window film and window tinting are often referred to as a single service, or mistaken for one another. They’re actually quite different!

      With window tinting, the actual glass itself is tinted to reduce sun glare inside a vehicle or building. Cars with tinted windows are difficult to see inside, which can be helpful if extra privacy is needed. However, there are specific laws in place about window tinting; tints past a certain level can be dangerous for drivers and therefore illegal!

      On the other hand, window film is typically clear. It doesn’t change the appearance of your home or vehicle, which means there aren’t any legal restrictions on it. Plus, unlike tinted glass, it’s a less permanent solution and can be removed if needed.

      Window film is a great investment because it can reduce your energy costs by up to 60% without making any aesthetic changes to your car or your house.

      How can I get window film installed?

      When it comes to window film installation, it’s necessary to seek out an experienced installer. If you’d like a completely clear and undetectable film for your windows, you’ll want it to be installed smoothly and correctly– without bumps or bubbles.

      To get started on protecting your car or home today, send us a message or give us a call!

      We are rebranding. SunStop Window Tinting is now autobahn Window Tinting

      Big NEWS!!

      We’re thrilled to unveil our refreshed brand identity partnering with Autobahn Performance Films to bring you the first branded Autobahn Window Tinting tint shop. The updates show the evolution of our company since its founding in 2014. While this is a significant change, our core beliefs haven’t changed.

      Over the last couple of months, we have poured our hearts and souls into creating a new image that accurately depicts who we are at our core as a team.

      In the spirit of rebranding, we will continue to commit to our customers and provide the same, or better, level of professionalism you have experienced. We’d also like to take the opportunity to thank our loyal customers and business partners for your trust and friendship in business.

      We think the new name represents where the company is going and has been. Specifically, SunStop Window Tinting represents where we’ve been, and Autobahn Window Tinting represents where we’re going.

      As you notice changes in our branding, signs, and promotions, we would love to connect with you. As always, please do not hesitate to call us anytime.

      Bare with us during our transitional phase. We will update you in regard to all of our social media platforms.

      WE’RE PLEASED TO PRESENT OUR NEW BRAND TO YOU!

      Check out our homepage autobahntint.com.

      sunstop window tinting to autobahn window tinting

      Window Tinting Laws in Arkansas

      Window tint is so important to protect you and your passengers from UV rays, but there are some tinting laws to abide by in the beautiful state of Arkansas.

      Car window tinting laws in Arkansas were enacted in 1993. We have provided all the necessary information about your car’s window tint, including how dark or reflective the tint is allowed in your state. If you check our website, you’ll see we are well versed in window tinting. There are also additional car window tinting rules and regulations in Arkansas, so make sure you read all about them below.

      The percent of visible light allowed through your car windows is called VLT: Visible Light Transmission. The percentage of light allowed through your film and glass in Arkansas is very specific and different for sedan cars and SUV cars or vans.

      Tint darkness for sedans

      • Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 5 inches of the windshield. 
      • Front Side windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in. 
      • Back Side windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in. 
      • Rear Window: Must allow more than 10% of light in.

      Tint darkness for SUV/Trucks and vans:

      • Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 5 inches of the windshield. 
      • Front Side windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in. 
      • Back Side windows: Must allow more than 10% of light in. 
      • Rear Window: Must allow more than 10% of light in.

      Keep in mind that Arkansas tinting laws and regulations may be interpreted differently in your county or place of residence. We always recommend double-checking our information with your local DMV or law enforcement authorities.

      Ready to get your car tinted? Check out our Automotive Window Tinting page.

      Source: https://www.tinting-laws.com/arkansas/

      Skin Protection for Inside your Home

      Am I safe inside my home from UV rays? 

      The windows in your home can put you at risk for unknowingly exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. The UV light divides into three classifications: UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. Of the three classifications, UV-A and UV-B are associated with sunburns and tanning as well as tanning beds. UV-C, however, does not even penetrate the Earth’s atmosphere. 

      Standard window glass, according to the International Ultraviolet Association,  will allow UV-A to pass through while nearly 100% of the UV-B is blocked. Therefore, damaging UV-A rays can penetrate your home and damage your skin. Some of the damaging effects include freckling, rashes, premature aging, and even skin cancer.

      How does window film help?

      Window film can help block damaging UV rays from entering your home. Our Window films block 99.9% of UV light. You will be able to have peace of mind in your home; you will have no risk of sun damage to your skin when near your windows. Our window films also give you the ability to reduce the amount of heat, light, and fading as well as making the glass safer if it breaks

      Is it a necessity?

      We think that offering your family the peace of mind that comes with applying window film is 100% a necessity. Being able to relax in your home and not have to worry about sun exposure is crucial for having a happy, worry-free lifestyle. Protecting yourself and your family has never been easier.

      Stay Tuned!

      Stay tuned for our next post! We will take on “Glare Reduction and Aesthetics” in the home and how our window films can help reduce light and update your home!

      THANK

      YOU

      An XPEL Little Rock Representative will be in touch. For immediate assistance, give us a call!