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Ceramic Tint vs. Regular Dyed Tint in Calgary: Is it Worth the Extra Cost?

By Amro
May 09, 2024
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Comparison of ceramic vs dyed window tint performance

You're getting quotes for window tint. One shop says $200. Another says $500. What gives? The difference usually comes down to the technology: Old School Dyed Film vs. Nano-Ceramic Film.

The Chemistry Difference: Ceramic vs Dyed

Dyed Film (The Cheap Stuff)

Think of this like sunglasses. It's a polyester sheet dyed black. It blocks light (glare) and provides privacy. However, the dye absorbs heat and transfers it into the glass/car. Over time, the sun bleaches the dye, turning it purple.

Nano-Ceramic (XPEL Prime XR)

This film contains millions of microscopic ceramic particles infused into the layers. Ceramic is non-conductive. It doesn't just absorb heat; it reflects and disperses Infrared (IR) energy. It will never fade or turn purple.

Heat Rejection Performance in Calgary

This is the main selling point. Dyed film blocks visible light but lets the heat through. Ceramic blocks the invisible Infrared spectrum that actually cooks your skin.

Infrared Heat Rejection (IRR)

Standard Dyed Film (Limo 5%)20%
XPEL Prime XR (Limo 5%)88%
XPEL Prime XR (Light 70%)85%

Note: Even a very light Ceramic tint (70%) blocks 4x more heat than a dark Dyed tint. Darkness does not equal heat rejection!

Longevity and Aesthetics of Window Tint

FeatureDyed FilmCarbon FilmNano-Ceramic
Color StabilityFades to PurpleStable (Matte)Stable (Neutral Black)
Signal InterferenceNoneNoneNone (Older Metallics interfered)
Warranty1-3 Years5-10 YearsLifetime Transferable
ClarityLow Angle HazeMediumCrystal Clear
Cost$$$$$$

Why We Only Install Ceramic Tint in Calgary

At PPF Pros, we have phased out dyed films entirely. The labor to install cheap film is the same as premium film. We would rather install a product that we can warranty for life than one we know will fail in 2 years.

If you are looking for the cheapest option to blackout a lease return, we might not be the shop for you. If you want comfort and durability, XPEL Prime XR is the only choice.

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