New To Window Tinting?
Our customers usually ask a few basic questions:
What’s the difference between the films? What do the shades mean? And what’s actually legal in Virginia?
To assist you through the window tinting process, we’ve prepared this brief, step by step guide.
STEP 1: Choose the Grade of Window Film
At Detail Authority, we offer two tinting options from XPEL, each with its own level of performance and technology:
XPEL Prime XR Black (Single-Layer Ceramic Technology)
- Entry level ceramic tint
- Blocks 78% of infrared heat
- Cuts down on glare and 99% UV rejection
- Better signal clarity than metalized films – no interference with GPS, phones, or radios
A great balance of performance, heat rejection, and value.
XPEL Prime XR Plus (Dual-Layer Ceramic Technology)
- Best-in-class infrared heat rejection (up to 96% IR)
- Maximum comfort and protection
- Industry-leading clarity, signal strength, and fade resistance
- 99% UV rejection
Ideal if you want the absolute best in comfort and technology.
STEP 2: Pick Your Shade (VLT – Visible Light Transmission)
The shade you choose determines how dark the tint looks and how much light comes through.
It’s measured in percentages (VLT) – the lower the number, the darker the tint.
| VLT % | Description | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| 5% | Very Dark (Limo Tint) | Maximum privacy |
| 20% | Dark shade | Sporty look. Matches rear dyed glass on most trucks and SUV’s |
| 35% | Medium shade | VA legal on back glass (cars) |
| 55% | Light shade | VA legal on front two windows |
| 70% | Very Light | Nearly invisible |
STEP 3: Understand Virginia Tint Laws
Virginia Window Tint Regulations (as of 2025):
Darkest legal tint for Cars in Virginia
- Windshield: Only allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line (or top 5 inches).
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 50% of light in
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in
- Rear window: Must allow more than 35% of light in
Darkest legal tint for SUV and Vans in Virginia
- Windshield: Only allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line (or top 5 inches)
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 50% of light in
- Back Side windows: Any darkness tint can be used
- Rear window: Any darkness tint can be used
Windshield tint below the AS-1 line is illegal in VA and will result in failed Safety Inspection,
unless you have a valid medical waiver from the DMV.
| Description | Prime XR PLUS | Prime XR Black |
|---|---|---|
| Infrared (IR) Heat Rejection | Up to 96% | Up to 78% |
| UV Protection | Up to 99% | Up to 99% |
| Technology | Dual-Layer Nano-Ceramic | Single-Layer Nano-Ceramic |
| Cost | $$$ | $$ |
| Warranty | Lifetime transferable | Lifetime transferable |
DETAIL AUTHORITY FAQ’s
1. The back windows on my car are tinted from the factory, should I still tint them?
Dark glass from the factory is actually just dyed privacy glass. It provides minimal protection from UV and heat.
2. Can my car get wet after the windows are tinted?
Yes, window tint is applied to the inside of the glass, so it is fine to get wet or wash the outside of the vehicle after tint is applied.
3. Why does the glass look hazy, or have bubbles right after installation?
This is expected. A mix of water and soap is used during the install process which needs to evaporate. This will take a few days to a couple weeks depending on the weather.
4. How long should I wait before rolling my windows down.
We recommend waiting 3-5 days so that the film has time to dry properly.
5. How do I clean my windows after tint has been installed?
Make sure to use a tint safe, ammonia-free cleaner such as XPEL Glass Cleaner and a soft microfiber towel.
Our Complete Service List
- XPEL Ultimate Plus Installation
- XPEL Fusion Ceramic Coatings
- XPEL Prime Window Tint
- XPEL Prime Plus Ceramic Tint
- XPEL Fusion Plus PPF & Paint
- XPEL Fusion Wheel Coatings
- XPEL Fusion Leather
- XPEL Fusion Fabric
- Expert Paint Correction
- Custom PPF Installations
- Manufacturers Warranty
- And more….
