Many boaters choose to tint their windshields for a few reasons. Tinting can help reduce the heat inside the boat, and some people do it just for aesthetics.
Whatever your motivation for wanting to tint your boat windshield is, there are a few things you should know and some things you should think about before making a decision. I’m going to share everything I learnt after doing some research.
However, keep in mind that if you want to tint your boat’s windshield and you don’t like the result, it is not the end of the world. Window tint can be removed without leaving a trace behind.
Is Boat Window Tinting A Good Idea
Although this may be a difficult question to answer, we have listed the pros and cons below in order to help you make a more informed decision.
Pros
- Regularly cleaning the boat’s interior will help keep it cooler.
- Having an awning on your boat provides more shade and protection from the sun, making it more comfortable to spend time aboard.
- This product helps keep your dashboard looking new by preventing fading, cracks, and other damage.
- Keep electronics cool.
- Our electronics have an anti-glare feature that makes it easier on the eyes.
- It looks nice.
- The top of the dashboard is ideal for placing cellphones or cameras without destroying them.
Cons
- At night, the Triton’s LED lighting is less noticeable.
- This product is difficult to install on curved glass.
- Flying internationally can be expensive, but there are ways to save money.
- It’s possible that it’s unlawful in your state.
How To Tint Curved Boat Windshield
Use a clean towel to wipe off the remaining soap. Wipe the exterior of your windshield with soapy water and a firm grip. Rub a dryer sheet on your windscreen and let it dry. Cut out the shape of the windshield using a new razor blade, as near to perfect as possible, on the outside of the tint film. Using the “dry shrink” technique, mold tint film.
Wipe the inside of your windshield clean with a dry cloth. To remove any grime or dust, spray soapy water on the interior and wipe it away. Spray more soapy water on the cleaned windshield, then pull off the transparent film and apply tint to the glass. Squeegee over the tints surface to remove excess soapy water and bubbles.
Tinting Boat Windows Inside Or Outside
Though it is more complicated, the tint film needs to be installed on the inside of the boat’s windows in order to get the full benefits out of it. If you were to install it on the outside, you would void its UV protection feature and expose it possible scratches and damages.
Boat Window Tint Laws
There are many different alternatives available on the market, as well as darkness, reflectiveness, and color. There are also several criteria you should consider before making a selection. These rules differ depending on the state, but they are more or less similar across the board. The following is a rundown of Florida’s boat window tinting laws.
Boat window tinting darkness law
- Windshield glass- A tinted window must allow at least 28% light to pass through. This is to ensure that the boat’s captain has adequate vision.
- Sides and back windows – A tinted window should allow at least 15% of light to pass through. Because they are not as essential for the captain’s vision as the windshield, these windows may be darker.
Boat window tinting reflectivity law
Reflective window tint provides excellent UV protection. This film has a metallic coating that reflects most of the sun’s rays, keeping out solar heat. This will help keep the interior area cooler.
You should never have more than 25% reflectivity on your boat windows. If you choose to install reflective tint, be aware that the glare from your windows could temporarily blind other boaters and cause accidents.
Before deciding on the sort of window tint to be put in your boat, you should check with your state’s regulations to see if any additional rules apply.
Related Questions
Is it possible to tint plexiglass?
It’s not a good idea to put normal window tint on plexiglass, plastic, or acrylic. When these materials are exposed to heat, they release gas; regular film will bubble up as a result of this.
The only type of film recommended to be used on plexiglass, acrylic or plastic windows is the peel and cling film. This is because other types of surfaces would be impossible to prepare without scratching them.
How Much Does It Cost To Tint Boat Windshield?
The cost of windshield tinting varies based on location, size of the boat’s windshield, and level of difficulty. For example, a small flat surface will be less money than a curved glass surface because it is simpler to do.
For example, a 21 feet bowrider with curved windshield could cost between $250 to $400 to tint. While the same size boat with flat windshields would only be $150-$300.
Another alternative is if you have the time and ability. You may convert your boat’s windshield into a weekend DIY project. This may be a fun activity to complete with family or friends, as well as being cost-effective.
Is removing windshield tint easy?
It’s fine to remove your windshield tint film if it gets damaged or you get sick of it and don’t want it anymore. It is feasible to remove. Although window tint is not permanent, there are a few methods for getting rid of it. You can hire a professional to do the task. Depending on the complexity and size of your windshield, this may cost anywhere from $50 to $200.
You may also perform it yourself and save some money. There are a few simple methods that you can try. The hair dryer method, the heat gun approach, or the portable steamer technique are just a few options to consider. You’re essentially applying heat to the film in order to melt the glue and make it easier to remove. Then use Windex on the glass to help get rid of any excess adhesive.