How Much Does Window Tinting Cost?

Window tinting adds privacy, reduces glare and blocks ultraviolet rays from entering your house. It can increase your home’s energy efficiency and lower electric bills. How much does window tinting cost? It depends on whether you hire a professional or go the DIY route. 

Calculating Window Tinting Cost

The cost of window tinting depends on how many windows you have, how big they are and which type of film you want to install. Generally, window tinting costs $5 to $15 per square foot, so you need to measure your windows to get a sense of how much it will cost. You’ll also likely pay around $5 to $10 per square foot for labor if you hire a professional.

Here’s a breakdown of the prices for different types of window tinting:

• Ceramic film: You can usually install this type of window film only on single-pane windows. It costs around $7 to $9 per square foot.
• Silver reflective film: With a mirror tint finish, silver reflective film blocks heat and turns your windows into one-way mirrors to create privacy. You can buy it for around $6 to $7 per square foot. 
• Security film: This transparent window film reflects heat and strengthens your windows in case of a natural disaster or break-in. The cost of security window tinting averages $5 to $15 per square foot. 
• Frost and decorative films: These types of window tinting add privacy to bathrooms or bedrooms. They typically cost $6 to $10 per square foot.
• Non-reflective film: You can use this type of window tinting on double-pane and single-pane windows. It averages around $5.50 to $6 per square foot.

Another factor affecting the cost of window tinting includes window height. Installing film on higher windows increases the risk of a dangerous fall, so professionals will charge a slightly larger fee. In 2020, 353 construction deaths came from falling from a height, with just 0.8% of fatal falls happening on the same house level. 

Windows with unusual borders can also cost more due to the extra time and skill involved in cutting the film to the right shape. 

How Much Does DIY Window Tinting Cost?

Are you a do-it-yourself kind of homeowner? In 2020, Americans spent $538 billion on DIY projects. Luckily, tinting your own windows is a relatively easy task that will help keep you cooler in the summer. You’ll need to buy the window film plus a few supplies, including:

• Window cleaner
• Spray bottle with soapy water
• Small squeegee
• Large squeegee
• Microfiber cloths
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Sharp utility knife with breakable blades

Thankfully, these supplies are relatively inexpensive. You’ll save money by installing your own window tinting because you won’t have to pay for labor. There are plenty of online tutorials to teach you how to tint your windows. For the best results, you should first practice this new skill on a piece of glass or window you don’t care as much about. Then you can get started!

Made in the Shade

Window tinting prices vary by film type, labor costs and window size, shape and height. Take some measurements to determine how much you’ll need to budget for this project. Over time, adding window tinting can lower your electric bill and keep you more comfortable at home.