WINDOWS
How Much Does Window Tinting Cost?
Estimate residential window tint cost per square foot — film and installation — with the free calculator.
Window tint cuts heat, blocks UV and adds privacy without replacing your windows. The price depends on film quality and glass area. This guide covers the cost per square foot and a calculator.
THE SHORT ANSWER
The short answer
Window tint runs $5–$15 per sq ft installed. A typical home with 100–200 sq ft of glass costs $500–$2,500 depending on film quality. Ceramic films are the best for heat rejection.
Film types and costs
Basic dyed film is cheap but fades; metalized film rejects heat but can interfere with signals; ceramic film is premium — it rejects the most heat and blocks UV without darkening. Prices rise with performance.
- Dyed film: $2–$4 per sq ft
- Metalized: $4–$8 per sq ft
- Ceramic: $8–$15 per sq ft
- Installation: $2–$4 per sq ft
What tinting actually saves
Ceramic film can reject up to 60-70% of solar heat, cutting cooling costs and keeping rooms comfortable near west-facing windows. It also blocks 99% of UV, protecting furniture and floors.
DIY vs. professional install
DIY film costs $100-$300 for a home and is doable on small, simple windows. Tall windows, skylights and sliding doors need a pro — bubbles and wrinkles are permanent once the adhesive sets.
Try the calculator with your windows
Enter the glass area, film price per sq ft and installation per sq ft to see the total.