Everything customers ask us most, in one place. Don't see your question? Call or text (805) 696-0178.
Does SPF 1000 come to my location?
Yes — SPF 1000 is a fully mobile window tinting service. We come to your home, office, or marina anywhere in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties. No shop drop-off required.
How much does window tinting cost?
Automotive tinting starts at $89 for two front windows with Standard Hitek film, and full vehicles start at $199. Ceramic Geo Shield Apex Ultra film starts at $129 for smaller jobs like a sunroof, with full-vehicle ceramic packages from $399. Use the instant price calculator above for an exact quote on your vehicle.
How long will you be at my location?
Most vehicles take about 1–2 hours depending on how many windows you're tinting — a couple of front windows go quickly, while a full vehicle or panoramic roof takes a bit longer. Residential and commercial jobs vary by size, so we'll give you a time estimate up front based on your quote.
What film brands does SPF 1000 use?
We install Geo Shield Apex Ultra nano-ceramic film and Hitek professional series film — both blocking up to 99% of UV rays.
What's the difference between Standard, Carbon, and Ceramic film — which should I choose?
Standard (Hitek film) gives you real 99% UV protection and a clean look at our lowest price. Carbon (Carbon Series) steps up to better heat rejection and more fade resistance than a standard dyed film, at a mid-range price. Ceramic (Geo Shield Apex Ultra) is our top tier — up to 97% infrared heat rejection, superior clarity with no haze or color shift, and zero signal interference with phones, GPS, or radio. If you're keeping the vehicle 5+ years or want maximum heat rejection, ceramic pays for itself in comfort; if you want a great look for less, standard or carbon get the job done. The price calculator above shows the exact difference for your vehicle.
What tint darkness is legal in California?
Front side windows must let in more than 70% VLT (visible light transmission) — in practice, that means a light film around 88% VLT once combined with factory glass. Rear windows and the back window can be as dark as you like. Windshields can only have a tinted strip along the top 4 inches, down to the AS-1 line. We'll walk you through legal options for your vehicle before we install anything.
How dark can I go, and what looks best?
Legally, front side windows must stay above 70% VLT, while back side windows and the rear window can be as dark as you like. Most customers pair a light, high-performing film up front with a much darker shade in back — you get a cooler cabin and a great look without risking a ticket. We'll walk you through legal, good-looking options for your exact vehicle before your appointment.
How soon can I roll down my windows or wash them after tinting?
Keep windows rolled up for 3–5 days after installation so the film fully cures. Avoid cleaning the interior of tinted windows for 30 days, and always use ammonia-free cleaners with a soft cloth after that. Some light moisture haze during curing is normal and typically clears within 3–30 days.
How long does window tint last?
With proper care, our film is built to last 10+ years — often the life of the vehicle — without bubbling, peeling, or fading. It's backed by the manufacturer's warranty plus our own workmanship guarantee.
Is there a warranty on the film?
Yes. Film is covered by the manufacturer's warranty (Geo Shield / Hitek) against bubbling, peeling, cracking, and discoloration, and our workmanship is guaranteed by SPF 1000. Warranty claims require proof of purchase and don't cover damage from abrasion, improper cleaning, or third-party removal.
Do I need a deposit, and what's your cancellation policy?
A deposit or full payment secures your booking. You can reschedule or cancel with at least 24 hours notice for a full deposit refund; cancellations or no-shows with less notice forfeit the deposit. We may also reschedule for weather unsuitable for a quality install.
Does window tint protect your skin?
Yes. Quality window film blocks 99% of UVA and UVB rays, which cause skin aging and increase skin cancer risk. Standard car glass lets in up to 75% of UVA rays — window tint changes that.
Do you tint boats?
Yes — SPF 1000 offers dockside marine tinting at Santa Barbara Harbor, Port San Luis, Morro Bay, and private docks throughout the Central Coast.
Do you tint homes and businesses too?
Yes — we install residential and commercial window film across the Central Coast. It blocks up to 97% of infrared heat and 99% of UV rays, cuts glare up to 90%, protects furniture and merchandise from fading, and adds daytime privacy without losing your view. We also offer safety and security film that holds shattered glass together. Every home and business is different, so these jobs are quoted individually — call or text for a free on-site or photo-based estimate.
