Frequently asked questions

Yes, window tint is legal in Wisconsin, but the state has specific limits depending on the window. The law measures “VLT” (Visible Light Transmission) — basically how much light can pass through the tint and glass combined. If your car’s tint is darker than allowed, you could be ticketed. At Fondy Tints, we always make sure you know the legal limits before we start. 

For Wisconsin:

• Front side windows: must allow at least 50% of light through (so 50% VLT).
   
• Rear side windows & back windshield: can be darker — down to 35% VLT.
   
• Windshield: tint is only allowed above the AS-1 line (the manufacturer’s top line) or the top 5 inches.
   

It depends. Police do use tint meters, and if your windows test darker than allowed, they can issue a fix-it ticket or fine. Usually, as long as you stay within the legal percentages, you won’t have issues. If you choose to go darker than the law, we recommend being aware of the risk.

That depends on the type of tint you choose.

• Carbon tint reduces glare, cuts decent heat and blocks UV rays.
   
• Ceramic tint is quite an upgrade — all the same properties while also cutting up to 80–90% of solar heat yet still looking clear and not too reflective.
   

So yes, tint absolutely helps keep your car cooler, especially in summer.

 Yes. On hot sunny days, tint reduces the amount of sunlight and infrared heat entering your car. This can drop your interior temperature by 10–20°F and reduce how hard your A/C has to work. It’s not like stepping into an icebox, but you’ll definitely feel the difference. 

Yes — but the darker you go, the less visibility you’ll have in low light.

• 50% tint on the front windows still gives good nighttime visibility.
   
• 15% or darker can make it harder to see through side windows at night, especially on unlit roads.
  Most customers find a balance between legal + functional for driving comfort.
   

Not much. Tint mainly reduces glare, which can actually make headlights and streetlights less blinding in rain or snow. The only time it could be a problem is with very dark tint at night — but legally approved tint levels won’t interfere with your ability to drive safely in bad weather.

Yes, from the inside looking out you can still see through limo tint during the day. At night, though, visibility is more limited, especially if you’re reversing with no backup camera. Many people choose limo tint (5%) on the back windows for privacy, while keeping the front windows lighter for safety and legality.

Good-quality tint installed correctly can last 10+ years. Cheaper dyed films may start fading in as little as 2–3 years, while ceramic or carbon films keep their color and performance much longer. At Fondy Tints, we use films backed by manufacturer warranties so you’re protected. 

Tint is installed on the inside of the glass, so it’s protected from the elements. Everyday use like rolling windows up and down is fine. Scratches usually only happen if something sharp (like a belt buckle, dog claws, or metal object) drags across the film. We recommend using soft microfiber cloths when cleaning to avoid damage.

• Carbon film:  Durable, blocks heat, doesn’t fade quickly, gives a matte finish.
   
• Ceramic film: Premium option. Blocks the most heat and UV, reduces glare without looking overly dark, won’t fade or interfere with electronics.
   

No. That only happens with older or very low-quality dyed films that break down under sunlight. The films we use are color-stable, meaning they won’t discolor over time.

Yes. Quality tint blocks 99% of harmful UV rays, which protects your skin while driving and helps prevent long-term sun damage like premature aging or skin cancer. It’s like having SPF built into your windows.

Yes. Sunlight and heat are the biggest reasons interiors crack, fade, or dry out. Tint drastically slows this down by blocking UV and infrared heat, which helps protect leather, cloth, dashboards, and plastics from fading or cracking.

Indirectly, yes. Tint keeps the interior in better shape, which improves resale value. Buyers often see tinted windows as an upgrade — it makes the car look sharper and can be a selling point. Even if you don’t get all your money back, the protection and comfort pay for themselves over time.

Most full car installs take about 1 hour, depending on the vehicle and how many windows are being done. A simple two-window job may take less time, while larger vehicles or premium packages can take slightly longer. 

Not always. For most cars, you can wait in the shop or come back in a couple hours. If we’re removing old tint or working on something with lots of glass (like SUVs or trucks), it’s usually best to plan on leaving it for a few hours. If you do need to drop it off and leave it all day for work or school reasons we can totally work with that and discuss drop-off and pick-up options.

Yes, we can remove old tint. Because removal is labor-intensive (heating, scraping, and cleaning adhesive), there is an additional charge depending on the condition of the old tint. This ensures the new tint looks perfect and bonds properly.

Small water bubbles or haziness are normal right after installation. They disappear as the film cures — usually within a few days to a week depending on weather. Permanent bubbles or dust specks are covered under warranty, so if you notice something unusual after the curing period, we’ll fix it.

We recommend waiting at least 2–3 days before rolling windows down. This allows the film to fully cure and bond to the glass. Rolling them down too soon could peel the edges.

Always use a soft microfiber cloth and ammonia-free glass cleaner. Regular cleaners with ammonia can damage tint over time. A simple soap-and-water mix works great too. Avoid abrasive scrub pads or paper towels.

Yes. Quality tint comes with a lifetime warranty against peeling, bubbling, or discoloration. If you notice any issues after the normal curing time, bring it back and we’ll fix it at no cost.

Yes, just slightly. Right after installation, tint can look hazy or darker because of moisture trapped between the film and glass. As it cures and the water evaporates, it clears up and looks even.

 Ceramic tint is a premium film that uses advanced technology to block heat, glare, and UV without needing to be super dark. It outperforms regular dyed or carbon films in both comfort and longevity. You’re paying for higher heat rejection, no signal interference, and a lifetime of color stability. 

Yes, absolutely. Many customers start with just the front two windows to match factory-tinted rears, or to stay within budget. You can always come back later to finish the rest of the vehicle if you decide you want full coverage.

Yes — a big one. Cheaper tints often:

• Fade or turn purple in a couple of years.
   
• Bubble or peel because of weak adhesive.
   
• Offer little to no heat rejection.
   

Higher quality tints (like carbon or ceramic) last much longer, keep your car cooler, and stay looking sharp for the life of the vehicle. In the long run, better tint actually saves you money.