Imagine driving in your vehicle, sheltered from the destructive effects of the sun, enjoying improved privacy and a stylish appearance. Did you know that window tinting can cover 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays? Understanding the distinction between 5% and 20% tints is essential in selecting the proper tint percentage. With 5% being the darkest option, the lower the percentage, the darker the tint.
But which one is the right fit for you? In this guide, we will break down what these percentages mean, key factors to consider, and how they compare in terms of visibility, heat rejection, privacy, and legality
What Does Window Tint Percentage Mean?
One should know first what window tint percentages indicate before choosing a tint. The percentage of tint indicates how much visible light passes through the windows of your vehicle. Less light transmission produces a lower percentage and hence a deeper clearcoat.
- 0% tint: Completely opaque (no visibility)
- 100% tint: Completely transparent (full visibility)
- 5% tint: Very dark (only 5% of light passes through)
- 20% tint: Dark but allows some visibility (20% of light passes through)
A 5% tint, commonly called a limo tint, is significantly darker than a 20% tint. The choice between them depends on visibility, privacy needs, and most importantly, tint laws in Louisiana to avoid legal trouble.
Is 5% or 20% Tint Darker?
5% Tint (Limo Tint)
- Darkest option available
- Only 5% of light passes through
- Maximizes privacy (almost impossible to see inside)
- Superior heat rejection (keeps the car much cooler)
- Best UV protection (blocks harmful sun rays)
- Challenging visibility at night (can be unsafe in low light)
- Not legal in most places (including Louisiana for front windows)
20% Tint (Dark Tint)
- Allows 20% of light to pass through
- Balances privacy and visibility
- Good heat rejection (but less than 5%)
- Decent UV protection (protects skin and interior)
- Easier to see through at night
- More likely to comply with window tint laws in Louisiana
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between 5% and 20% Tint
1. Louisiana Tint Laws
Legal conformity is one of the most relevant considerations in a tint percentage selection. Window tint laws Louisiana rules control the darkness of your tint on several windows:
- Front side windows: Need 40% minimum sunlight
- Rear side windows: Can be as dark as you wish
- Rear windshield: Unlimited View
Front windows are not legal for 5% tint since it is far darker than 40%. To balance style, privacy, and legality, many drivers choose 20% for side windows. If you are asking, is 5 percent tint legal in Louisiana? The answer is no—not for frontside windows at least.
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2. Privacy & Security
- 5% tint gives you the most privacy if it is your paramount issue. It practically rules out anyone from looking inside your automobile.
- 20% tint still provides privacy while allowing some visibility, making it a good middle-ground choice.
3. Visibility at Night
- 5% tint makes night driving difficult, as it blocks most light.
- 20% tint offers better visibility, allowing safer driving conditions at night.
4. Heat and UV Protection
- Both 5% and 20% tints reduce heat and block UV rays, but 5% offers superior protection due to its darker shade.
- In hot climates like Louisiana, a darker tint can help keep your car cooler.
Conclusion
A 5% tint could be your ideal option if you desire utmost privacy, excellent heat rejection, and don’t mind nighttime visibility issues. Remember, though, that it doesn’t meet the majority of tint laws in Louisiana. Conversely, a 20% tint would be the ideal option if you need a happy mix of privacy, visibility, and legal compliance. Though it helps you to see better at night and keep your vehicle cool, it still presents a modern, elegant front.
Looking for professional window tinting? We provide top-notch window tinting at Auto Protection Specialist that conforms to tint laws in Louisiana and gives your vehicle the best possible protection. We have you covered if you need 20% dark tint for legal conformance or 5% limo tint on your rear windows.
Get in touch with us now to get the greatest window tint for your car within Louisiana tint laws!
