How Is Window Tint Measured: VLT & Testing

When you choose window tint, the question comes head-on - how to calculate the film's transmission. This affects both daytime comfort and nighttime safety, and whether you fit into the laws and regulations of your state. I'll explain it as simply as possible: what is VLT and how to make tint measurements without panic.

What is VLT tint

In window tinting practice, VLT is the percentage of visible spectrum transmission through a combination of glass and window film. The formulation "what is vlt in window tint" is translated as the fraction of light that has passed; this is visible light transmittance, or visible light transmission tint in everyday descriptions. A smaller percentage means a darker shade and more privacy; larger - brighter room and better clarity.

For example: 70% - almost transparent, 35% - balance, 20% - distinct darkness and noticeable glare control. It is important not to confuse VLT with heat: UV and infrared energy can be blocked separately, so a film with the same VLT can reduce heating in different ways. But when the inspection comes, it is precisely "what is vlt in window tint" that interests us, because it is looked at in tint law.

Tint measure

How does this happen technically? There is a compact tint meter - a tool/device made of two halves of a horseshoe or magnetic type. One part emits a beam, the other - a detector/sensor receives light and measures the transmission rate. On the display you see the percentage of light, and next to it - the VLT value. In short: how does a tint meter work - source, receiver, signal comparison, calculation and ready result.

Due to glass thickness, dust or factory tint, the readings may deviate; that is why how is tint measured - not one, but several readings. Next, the data is entered into the protocol, and the master makes a calculation for compliance with the tint regulation and tint standard.

How to test window tint

Below is a short algorithm without unnecessary words. It is suitable for both office glass and cars after aftermarket installation:

• Clean the edge of dirt, drops and dust; scratches give false readings.
• Turn on the VLT meter, check the light meter calibration and zero value.
• Grasp the edge of the glass with the tool: the emitter and detector should fit snugly.
• Press the test button, wait for the display to stabilize, fix the tint percent.
• Repeat 3-5 times - these are the basic tint measurements; calculate the average.
• Compare with local law: the tint limit for the front doors is usually different from the rear.
• If an official tint inspection is required - contact a professional installer.

Simple explanation - no formulas

Here is the answer without complex formulas. In service centers and the police, the same steps apply: To the practical question - how is window tint measured - the answer is one: everything is recorded by the device. The window tint meter is applied to the edge, the visible indicator is read and entered into the act.

To avoid errors, how is tint measured according to the protocol: several measurements at different points, the average value, the final evaluation. And so, what is vlt in window tint - this is exactly the number that affects fines and permits.

Tint measure - a summary in human language

You don't need to be an engineer to figure it out. There is a device, there is a transparent algorithm, there are clear limits. If you want a flawless result, come to Archtint: we will select a window film with the optimal level of light transmission, explain the nuances of safety, reflection and clarity, show a tint chart and advise you on how to choose the level for your home or office. We work within the tint regulation, so after the inspection you can safely use UV and glare protection. 

The measurement method is simple and repeatable, and the decision is yours.A little more about comfort in everyday life. When it's 90°F (32°C) outside, the difference after quality installation is visible to the naked eye: less glare, a more stable temperature near the glass, easier to work at the computer. 

Don't just chase the darkest percentage - often the best choice is where night vision and safety for pedestrians and drivers are preserved. Record one small measurement for yourself: if the room has become noticeably more comfortable, but you can still see clearly outside, this is the right balance.

Questions and answers

• Q: How does a tint meter work when the glass is wet?
• A: Drops scatter light, so dry it first. After that, the device stabilizes the reading and gives the correct visible light transmission tint. For reliability, this indicator is repeated: the visible light transmission tint is read three times and averaged.
• Q: how is tint measured if there is OEM tint under the film?
• A: First, the base glass is tested, then the window film. The total tint measurements are compared with the tint law and regulation.
• Q: How does a tint meter work in two-component models?
• A: The transmitter and receiver are placed on different sides; the beam passes through the package, the sensor counts the transmission. The principle is the same.
• Q: How is tint measured for the inspection report?
• A: There is a certain order: calibration, three to five attempts, the final measure, the average value and a photo display. Everything is simple and transparent.