While many individuals think that all window tints are the same, there’s actually quite a big difference between regular tint and Smash-and-Grab film, besides keeping your car cool.
Whether it’s worries regarding sun glare or break-ins, knowing what type of film is on your windows can make all the difference.
Also read: Report shows where the majority of hijackings in SA occur
So, what really separates regular tint and Smash-and-Grab film from each other? Let’s find out.
The key difference: Thickness
Thickness is the most important difference between Smash-and-Grab film and regular window tint.
Furthermore, thickness isn’t what people would usually notice right away, as there is more going on behind the scenes.
- Smash-and-Grab film: At 100 microns thick, this film is built to be tough and withstand force. As a bonus, it’s laminated, meaning that it doesn’t just block sunlight; it also protects motorists’ vehicles from a smash-and-grab attack.
- Regular window tint: Regular window tint is thinner, between 25 and 50 microns, which is what most people use to lessen heat and glare. It accommodates comfort, but not so much for safety.
The function of Smash-and-Grab film:
In the scenario where a person has parked somewhere and a thief tries to smash their window, with regular tint, the glass would shatter. However, with smash-and-grab film, a thief would struggle.
As for what Smash-and-Grab film can do, it can:
- Hold broken glass together: Smash-and-Grab film won’t shatter; instead, the film would keep the glass intact, protecting everyone from dangerous shards.
- Create noise and delay: Breaking through Smash-and-Grab film would require time, which is something thieves don’t have. Coupled with extra noise and struggle, dis would provide apt time for individuals on the receiving end to react or escape.
How to tell the difference:
So, how would a person know if a car has Smash-and-Grab film or just regular tint?
There’s more than what meet’s the eye, since it is difficult to tell smash-and-grab film or just regular tint apart from each other.
That’s where the professionals come in, such as Glasfit, where they would be able to help you figure it out.
At Glasfit, they can check the thickness and look for lamination-two signs that indicate whether a vehicle has the right kind of protection on its windows.
The legal limit and what South Africans should know:
According to South African law, the Smash-and-Grab film on a person’s vehicle must allow 35% of visible light through.
This means that a person’s car windows can’t be too dark for safety reasons, even if they want extra privacy.
Why Smash-and-Grab film is made for South Africa:
Smash-and-Grab film isn’t just popular in South Africa, as it’s specifically made for us by top manufacturers located in the United States and China.
This is because they know we face unique challenges in terms of vehicle security. This film is designed to accommodate those needs, which would give individuals an added layer of defence against the unexpected.
Always check your windows:
If a person is unsure about what’s on their windows, then it is advised to check the windows.
At Glasfit, they would be able to tell clients whether they have a regular tint or the added protection of Smash-and-Grab film. Plus, if an upgrade is needed, they’ll help also help to choose the right film to keep clients and their vehicles safe.
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Picture: Dawid Kochman / Pexels
