How Much Does Home Window Tinting Cost?

Window Tinting Cost by Type of Tint

You’ll pay about $2 to $14 per square foot for most types of window tint, not including the installation. For smart-glass installation, expect a pro to charge $50 to $100 per square foot. Each type of tint has its pros and cons, but here’s what you can expect to spend.

3M Window Film Cost

3M window films may cost about $2 to $14 per square foot, depending on the type you need. The manufacturer requires installers to obtain a certification before installing the product. They offer a variety of options for better privacy, security, and protection from the sun's glare.

Ceramic Tint Cost

At $5 to $10 per square foot, ceramic tint comes at a higher price than other options. This material contains a ceramic ingredient that effectively blocks up to 50% of the sun's rays without compromising visibility.

Security Film

Buying extra protection for your home will set you back about $7 to $9 per square foot. This thick film makes it harder to break the glass. Homeowners use it to protect against intruders, accidents, fire, and natural disasters that might damage windows—but security film also enhances privacy. Security film is popular because it functions similarly to laminated security glass but is less expensive than the cost of a window replacement.

Solar Window Film

Solar window film, which absorbs or reflects UV rays, ranges from $8 to $14 per square foot. This film increases your home’s energy efficiency by blocking solar heat without excessively darkening your space. Solar films can save you as much as 30% on your summer cooling bill by some estimates.

Smart Glass

Smart glass costs $50 to $100 per square foot. It’s essentially a layer of glass that lets you adjust the tint using your smartphone, home automation system, remote, or switch. Typically, a contractor will install smart glass by replacing your window’s existing glass plane. In recent years, smart films are becoming more common. You can retrofit these films onto an existing window.

Window Tinting Cost Factors

Many factors will impact your overall house window tint cost. Size and number of windows have a huge impact because tint is sold by the square foot. Still, other factors like access and ease of installation can impact labor costs and drive up the overall price.

Number of Windows

Sometimes less isn’t more. Since tint can be relatively inexpensive and simple to install, some contractors will charge a minimum fee for their visit. In this case, you can save money by tinting multiple windows at once. Other contractors charge a flat rate per window, though most focus on the square footage since windows can dramatically differ in size.

Size

The more square footage you need to tint, the more you’ll pay. If you’re getting your windows tinted professionally, expect to spend $7 to $110 per square foot. See the following table for what prices can look like.

Window Type

Some windows are simple to tint. Others require meticulous cuts with a tedious application process that drives up labor costs. The price your pro quotes will depend on the specific window type. 

Flat

Homeowners pay the average price per square foot to install tinting on flat windows, whether they’re double-hung, double-pane, or casement windows. Installation prices per square foot tend to be lower for larger windows. 

Patio 

It usually costs $42 to $660 to tint a 2-by-3-foot window in a sunroom or patio. Because this type of window experiences significant sun exposure, opt for at least a solar film. You’ll spend significantly more if you want to install smart glass.

Sliding Glass Doors

Tint on sliding glass doors might skew to the high end of the standard price. This type of door requires a large piece of film, which is more difficult to cut and install without creasing and bubbling. Sometimes, a contractor will charge a flat rate of $100 to $150 per door to install tint, especially if you only need tint installed on one door.

Skylights

Applying a window tint on skylights requires special materials, so leave this job to a pro. Remember that many skylight manufacturers recommend against tinting, and placing certain tints on flat skylights could damage them. Dome styles contain plexiglass, which may not hold the film well. 

French

French door window film typically costs $10 to $19 per square foot for professional installation. The price is so much higher than other tints (excluding smart glass) because your contractor will have to cut small, individual pieces of film to apply to each smaller pane. More panes mean more labor for the same amount of space.

Hurricane

Most homeowners pay between $7 and $15 per square foot to tint a hurricane door. This type of window is impact-resistant because it has multiple layers of glass to weather storm damage. Window tint, especially security film, can reinforce hurricane windows and make them even stronger.

Film Type

As discussed above, most films cost between $7 and $15 per square foot, and some films like smart glass have a higher price tag. Expect to spend $50 to $100 per square foot on smart glass.

Benefits of Window Tinting

The type of film that best suits your window depends on your needs. You can find tinting that will do everything from increasing privacy and preventing glare to ramping up your home security and saving on your energy bill. This chart can help you narrow it down based on each product's features. Note that security film will only add to your home’s safety.

Residential Window Tint Removal Costs

Effective installation should last for many years. Consult a pro to get a quote if you want to remove it. Some homeowners prefer to pay the cost of replacing a window pane, which costs about $260.

Window Tint Repairs

Over time, window tinting can show signs of damage. Many pros offer a warranty against bubbling or peeling for at least one year. Some companies provide lifetime warranties, so check with the installer before having your windows tinted. Paying more for an installation that lasts for 30 years might be well worth the extra expense.

Car Window Tinting Prices

Installing car window tinting costs about $100 to $200 on average. Auto owners may pay as much as $500 for more expensive films. The front and rear windshields of cars and trucks are the most expensive due to their size and curvature. Most states have laws specifying which windows you can tint in a vehicle and the films you can use. Most states don’t allow it for front windshields, and other states have laws on how dark it can be. Check with your local police department for restrictions on tinted windows for vehicles.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Window Tint Installer

Since installation costs $5 to $10 per square foot, you can save money doing the job on your own. However, window tint is deceptively difficult to install. It requires precise cuts and application to avoid flaws like creases, bubbling, and fingerprints. A professional job takes less time, lasts longer, and often comes with a warranty. A window tinting service near you will be able to give you a quote.

Window Tinting Prices Near Me

The total expense of window film installation varies by location and the professional you hire. Research window tinting companies near you for an exact quote.

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to tint house windows?

With careful selection, you may be able to get window film installation for as low as $7 per square foot. Although the best products can cost as much as $100 per square foot, choosing less-expensive films can help keep costs down.

How much are commercial or office window tinting prices?

Many pros charge similar prices for commercial and residential installation, about $5 to $10 per square foot. They may lower the installation rate for larger projects.

Will a pro supply window film for a tint job?

Most professional tinting installers prefer to select their own products and cut them to size. Some manufacturers, like 3M, require dealers to complete certification before installing those brands.

How much does it cost to untint a window?

Removing window tint can be labor-intensive. Ask for a quote in advance. In some cases, it may make more sense to replace the glass instead.

How much window tint do I need?

Tints are rated by thickness, affecting the amount of UV protection or heat-blocking they provide. The style of window film you need depends on your goal. Ask a pro to recommend the products that will best serve your needs.

How much does electric window tint cost?

Electric window tint, often referred to as “smart glass,” averages $50 to $100 per square foot. Most manufacturers sell it as a unique kind of glass, but films are available. It provides a way to control features by a switch or system.

Can the same pro install house and car window film?

Some pros will perform window tint installation for home or auto. Before hiring one, ensure they have experience placing films in houses.