VLT in plain terms
A 70% film lets 70% of visible light through and looks nearly clear. A 35% film is a noticeable tint. A 20% film is dark. Unlike car tint, there's no legal limit on how dark home or office windows can be, but darker isn't always better.
Darker isn't the only way to cut heat
Older films blocked heat mainly by blocking light, so you had to go dark to feel a difference. Newer spectrally selective films block much of the heat while letting more light through. If you want cooler rooms but don't want tinted-looking windows, ask about them.
A quick guide by room
- Living rooms and views: light to medium (around 40–70%) keeps the view bright while cutting heat and glare.
- TV rooms and home offices: medium (around 20–40%) for stronger glare control.
- Bedrooms: medium to dark, or blackout film if you sleep during the day.
- Bathrooms and entries: frosted, which isn't measured the same way, for privacy day and night.
These are starting points. We bring real samples so you can see each shade on your own glass. You can also try the shade preview.
Quick answers
Straight answers before anyone comes out to measure.
Is there a legal limit for home window tint in Illinois?
Illinois tint limits apply to vehicles. Homes and businesses don't have the same limits, though condo associations and some buildings have their own rules.
Will dark film make my plants die?
Very dark film reduces the light plants get. If you have plants near the window, a lighter or spectrally selective film is a better fit.
Good to know
Straight answers to what people ask before they buy window film.