How to Measure Tint for a Car or Truck
Measuring tint for a car or truck is straightforward once you decide on your approach. You'll need to determine whether you'll use a plotter or hand cut the tint. Let's focus on the hand-cutting method.
Calculating Square Footage
Before measuring, it's essential to understand how to calculate square footage. Most window film installers measure windows in inches. Here's how you can do it:
- Measure the window's length and height in inches.
- Multiply these measurements to get the total area in square inches.
- Divide this number by 144 (since there are 144 square inches in a square foot) to get the square footage.
Popular Measurement Approach: Linear Footage
Most installers prefer measuring in linear footage because our automotive window films roll come in standard sizes: 20 inch, 24 inch, 36 inch, 40 inch, and even 60 inch. The 60-inch rolls are particularly useful for larger vehicles like Tesla's Cybertruck, Model 3 back windows, and some RVs.
For side windows, 20-inch rolls are typically sufficient. However, for larger side windows found on SUVs, crossovers, and trucks, you may need 24-inch rolls. Measure the length of the windows and multiply by the number of windows to determine the total length needed. Smaller, triangular fixed windows can usually be covered with scraps from the main rolls.
Back Windows
For back windows, a 36-inch or 40-inch roll is generally adequate. Measure the width (left to right) of the window to determine the required length. Larger rolls can often be split to cover side windows and back windows efficiently, minimizing waste.
Plotter Cutting
Plotter cutting offers two primary methods:
- Multiple Width Rolls: Purchase various standard width rolls (20, 24, 36, 40 inches) to match the closest size needed for each window, maximizing efficiency and minimizing waste.
- Larger Rolls: Use larger rolls (36, 40, or even 60 inches) and arrange patterns efficiently. This method can reduce waste to as low as 10%, compared to up to 20% waste in hand cutting.
Shrink Direction and Pattern Arrangement
When using a plotter, be aware that window film can only shrink in one direction. Arrange patterns accordingly to ensure proper shrinking and avoid creasing the film.
Final Considerations
- Calculate the total square footage needed based on your measurements and the width of the rolls.
- Account for potential waste: around 20% for hand cutting and 10% for plotter cutting.
- Most automotive window film rolls come in 100-foot increments, though some places offer smaller increments or sell by the foot.
These tips should help you accurately measure and decide how much window film to order from us for tinting your car or truck, ensuring you make efficient use of your materials and achieve the best results.
