Term
Meaning
VLT
Visible Light Transmission — % of light passing through film
TSER
Total Solar Energy Rejected — % of solar heat blocked
IR
Infrared — heat radiation from the sun
UV
Ultraviolet light — causes fading & skin damage
Dyed Film
Basic tint made with dye layers, prone to fading
Carbon Film
Mid-tier tint with carbon particles, no fading
Ceramic Film
Premium tint with nanoparticles, blocks heat and UV
Nano-Ceramic
Advanced ceramic tint, highest clarity & heat rejection
Metalized Film
Tint with metal layers, may interfere with electronics
Hybrid Film
Combination of dye + metal or ceramic layers
Limo Tint
Extremely dark 5% VLT shade
Heat Shrink
Technique to shape film on curved glass
Slip Solution
Liquid used to apply film without sticking immediately
Bubbling
Tint failure due to trapped moisture or adhesive failure
Peeling
Film lifting at edges or corners
Optical Distortion
Blurring caused by poor film or installation
Adhesive
Layer that bonds film to glass
Defroster Lines
Heated lines on rear window that tint must avoid damaging
Scratch-Resistant Coating
Protective layer on premium films
Glare Reduction
Film's ability to reduce sunlight glare
Privacy
Level of visibility reduction from outside
Curing
Time for tint adhesive to fully dry (1–4 weeks)
Computer-Cut
Pre-cut templates using software for precision
Hand-Cut
Film cut manually during installation
Fade
Color change over time due to UV exposure
Purple Tint
Fading issue in dyed films
Warranty
Guarantee offered by manufacturer or shop
Compliance
Following state tint laws
Front Windows
Front driver/passenger side windows
Rear Windows
Rear side and back windows
Windshield Tint
Film applied to top visor strip only
Nano Particles
Tiny ceramic particles in premium films
IR Rejection
Percentage of infrared heat blocked
TSER Rating
Heat rejection rating, usually percentage
Reflective Tint
Mirror-like film that reflects light
Matte Finish
Non-reflective film surface
Glossy Finish
Shiny, reflective film
DIY Tint
Self-applied film, often lower quality
Premium Tint
Shop-applied, high-quality film
UV Protection
Blocks harmful ultraviolet rays
Heat Rejection
Reduces interior heat from sun
Installation Prep
Cleaning and surface prep before film
Moisture Trapped
Water left under film causing bubbles
Edge Wrapping
Film tucked around window edges
Rear Privacy
Dark tint on rear windows
Vehicle Type
Sedan, SUV, coupe, truck affecting tint choice
Legal Limit
State-mandated VLT percentage
Air Pockets
Small trapped air bubbles under film
Film Longevity
How long the tint lasts
Quality Control
Ensuring installation meets professional standards
Premium Shop
Expert installation using advanced tools

Keep this glossary handy when reviewing films or shops. It helps you avoid mistakes, choose the right film, and understand the terminology professionals use.

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