Factory Black Glass vs Window Tints

[digitalgypsy]

Hello chaps,

I did search on the forum but couldn't find exact info I was looking for...

I'm planning to have my windows tinted but then also considering replacing them with factory black glass which you sometimes see on Bongos. The main reason for wanting tints is to reduce heat inside the Bongo, not so much privacy! Privacy would also be great too though Anyone know if the factory black glass reduces heat? I'd be inclined to go with the glass if it does, even though they appear to not add very much privacy.

Thanks for any help!
Steve

Oh and does anyone happen to know any decent window tinters in the Portsmouth area, give or take 20 miles?

[Simon Jones]

I don't think there will be much difference in heat blockage between the two. You can often pick up a second hand set of 4 tinted side windows for about £100, but that still leaves the rear to deal with which is bonded to the tailgate. The factory tint is very dark, so much that on our last Bongo, we'd often be sat inside having a cup of tea with people staring right in and not realising we were inside .



The current van has a factory fitted silver/bronze tint which is quite reflective so probably better at reducing heat than darker colours.

It's quite a pale tint as you can see:





Anyway, when did the heat wave hit Portsmouth?

[mikeonb4c]

I was delighted to find a Bongo with untinted windows, as I don't want my landscape colours dimmed. If I want a cooler Bongo I put the blinds down, draw the tailgate curtains, and crack the (front) windows open. Ditto for privacy.

[digitalgypsy]

Cheers Simon! Advice at the ready as usual.

So you do think the factory tinted glass reduces heat then? I've heard the window film you can apply reduces heat by about 40%. But anyway, not very keen on buying a new tailgate just for the factory glass, window tints it is. Whereabouts is that from your last photo?? Need to go there

Mike, that would be the easiest option for sure but then rather dimmed than no views at all eh!

Personally I think sitting in there at even moderate sunshine you get totally frazzled! It's like a magnifying glass with the big windows.

[BBChunks]

Hi Mate,

I've always had my cars done by the guy on the Eastern Road opposite the Harvester.

Always does a stella job.

[digitalgypsy]

Ah nice one BB! Looks like that's 'Automotive Window Tinting', he seems to have a good rep. I'll give him a call. Think you've noticed your car being cooler after having them done??

[scanner]

Neither tinted glass or interior blinds will have any effect on heat transmission. Once the sunshine has hit the glass it is turned into radiation - it is the effect the "greenhouse" effect is named after.

The only way to reduce heat build up is exterior blinds or possibly glass that is mirrored on the outside face.

My Bongo has very dark factory glass and I can assure you it does not help keep anything cool.

[mikeonb4c]

Neither tinted glass or interior blinds will have any effect on heat transmission. Once the sunshine has hit the glass it is turned into radiation - it is the effect the "greenhouse" effect is named after.

The only way to reduce heat build up is exterior blinds or possibly glass that is mirrored on the outside face.

My Bongo has very dark factory glass and I can assure you it does not help keep anything cool.

Not quite true. Once radiation makes it through the glass and strikes the interior, the Trombe effect takes hold. But I take your point, and ventilation + convection is the most effective way to keep interior cooler. Lift roof, open venting zips, crack Windows, and the process can start.

[Bob]

Ahh, remember the old 'Just Ask Mike' thread?

I don't think we ever caught you out, old pal.

[BBChunks]

Ah nice one BB! Looks like that's 'Automotive Window Tinting', he seems to have a good rep. I'll give him a call. Think you've noticed your car being cooler after having them done??

Yep, he's always done a great job. Not had the Mazda done yet but its on the to do list. Perhaps its placebo but I've always felt the cars were a little less hot inside with the tint done? More importantly & no idea why but my daughter doesn't get travel sick with tinted windows?!?!?!?!!! I always go limo black.

Lets us know how you get on