How to install car curtains instead of tinting

Types of curtains

Each category of sun protection products for cars has its own characteristics that must be taken into account. In order not to enter into unnecessary disputes with traffic police officers, it is worth studying in detail each type of curtains for the rear or front windows of a car.

Sunscreens

These products are very inexpensive, about 150 rubles for two screens. These universal accessories are suitable for all types of cars, from cars to trucks. Installation is extremely simple, since the products are held on the glass with Velcro. This makes the screens easy to remove and reinstall.

However, such curtains for cars have several significant disadvantages. Firstly, they do not cover the entire window completely, so they only perform a 60% protective function. In addition, such screens look very awkward on luxury cars.

Plastic curtains

Such protective products for cars are usually rolled up (similar to blinds). This means that, if necessary, you can very quickly open the window if you encounter a traffic police post on the way. To install such products, it is enough to install several self-tapping screws or special hooks on which they will be held. However, due to the roll-up design of this universal type (you won’t be able to select it based on the car model) of car curtains, they cannot cover the entire window. In addition, such screens are made of short-lived plastic, which fades and deforms very quickly.

Such accessories cost from 1,000 to 1,500 rubles. And if a traffic police officer notices that the screens are down, then you are guaranteed to have to pay another 500 rubles.

Sliding fabric curtains

Such products can be compared to ordinary curtains that hang on the windows of houses. Textile car curtains are attached using the same principle - using hooks that move along guides located at the top of the car window. The convenience of using sliding curtains is that as the fabric fades, the material can be replaced. In addition, they are easy to open and close. However, the driver will have minimal visibility, since in this case the entire window is covered with opaque material.

Another disadvantage of fabric products is that they stand out too much and visually reduce the space of the car interior. In addition, law enforcement officers especially do not like such sliding curtains, so again you will have to constantly drive in fear of saying goodbye to another 500 rubles.

Frame curtains

These products are made from a frame that is shaped exactly like the window of a specific car brand. A mesh material is stretched along the perimeter of the wire base, which simultaneously protects the driver from sunlight and does not interfere with visibility.

In this case, frame curtains are not attached to the glass itself, but to the window frame, so the use of such products is not a violation of the law. If the light transmittance of the screens meets the standards, then no traffic police officer will be able to count their use as an offense.

This is interesting: Choosing a tee for the car cigarette lighter

In addition, installing frame curtains does not require any effort. Mesh screens are attached using several magnets and metal corners. Such products look very stylish, as they fit perfectly into any car interior.

The cost of products, as a rule, ranges from 2,500 to 5,000 rubles for 2 screens for the front side windows. Moreover, their service life is much longer when compared with other analogues.

However, when choosing such a replacement tint film, you should pay attention to the refraction and distortion of light. As mentioned earlier, it is very difficult to find quality products of this type, but it is possible

Types of models

We have already decided on the need to use curtains; now it is useful to find out what types exist.

The following types of products can be found on sale:

• sun protection;
• plastic;
• fabric;
• frame;
• only for the rear window or only for the side windows and others.

Now a little more detail about each type.

Sunscreen

It is very popular among many drivers due to the way they are mounted on glass. There are suction cups for this, so it’s easy to secure this structure.

The style of such products is universal; they will suit any car: both the cheapest and the most elite. In terms of cost, the screen also wins because it is the most affordable and practical tool. A set of two pieces will cost only 150-200 rubles.

However, it is not without its drawbacks. The screen dimensions are smaller than the glass itself, which does not allow full protection from the sun. In addition, the suction cups quickly fail.

Plastic

The advantage of plastic curtains is that they can be quickly rolled up and unfolded as needed. Fastening (labor-intensive) is carried out using self-tapping screws, but they are easy to use.

However, after some time, such curtains will lose their attractive appearance due to the nature of the material (plastic quickly loses its color). But if functionality is important, then this option is completely justified.

One has only to take into account that curtains are supplied to the market in standard sizes and it is possible that models of the required sizes may simply not be found. The cost of such accessories is 1000-1500 rubles.

Fabric

They can be compared to apartment curtains. Car models are held on hooks, which in turn are attached to the upper and lower cornices. Everything is located not on the glass, but next to it, which allows you to open and close the window without hindrance.

The main advantage is quick replacement. It is possible to choose exactly those models that will best suit your tastes (the desired degree of darkness, size, etc.). Such a kit will cost 600-2000 rubles.

Interesting video about which car curtains are better, comparison test:

Frame

The price for frame curtains for the front windows of a car ranges from 2,900 to 3,500 rubles, depending on the vehicle model. For a complete set (7 pieces) you will have to pay from 8,600 to 9,700 Russian rubles.

As the name implies, frame products have a base the size of the window and a mesh that is stretched over this base. These accessories are the best option when compared with other types.

First of all, they are practical to use. Installation and replacement does not take much time. Durable fabric is used as a mesh, which additionally protects the inhabitants from insects.

In addition, a cutout for smokers can be made to order in the mesh (the pleasure will cost 300 rubles).

Smoking cutout

Many car enthusiasts prefer this type of protection to tinting. It was noted that with frame products installed, the efficiency of the air conditioner increases by about 30-40%.

Watch the video on the topic, installation of frame car blinds Brenzo:

Can a fine be considered unreasonable?

Many drivers believe that traffic police officers and its divisions are acting unlawfully when they demand that the owner of the vehicle pay a fine.
According to explanations given by specialists in the field of administrative law, traffic police officers do not have the right to fine motorists who have curtains or a thick mosquito net attached to the rear window. You can be fined for curtains on the side windows. It all depends on the traffic police inspector and on you. You can try to prove that the curtains are used only in the parking lot, and the rest of the time they are open.

Persons who do not want to give up curtains and mosquito nets are advised to:

• use curtains/mosquito nets made in accordance with GOST: they should not block the viewing angle;
• their transparency should not be less than 70%.

By the way

The fine introduced for the use of tinted windows helped reduce mortality statistics on Russian roads. According to traffic police data, in 2014 the number of accidents decreased by 3 times (compared to 2013). In the new year 2020, more favorable forecasts await Russians.

Review of curtains popular among drivers

There are many different curtains that can be hung on the side windows, rear and front windows. Each model differs in its design and material of manufacture.

Pull-out models

The most common models are retractable curtains that are attached to the side windows to protect from the sun. Their convenience lies in the control of the light inside the cabin and the ability to use it at the driver’s request. Products made from expensive material are distinguished by their beautiful appearance and resistance to fading in the sun. For the rear window, retractable curtains are made of more durable material.

Products with suction cups

The main function of models with suction cups is to darken the car interior to protect from the sun. Such curtains, like tinting, absorb most of the UV rays, creating a comfortable atmosphere for the driver. The cheapest model is the one with suction cups for the front window, but its effectiveness is low.

Plastic models

Plastic curtains have gained popularity due to the ability to be folded and unfolded multiple times, after which they do not wrinkle like their fabric counterparts. Plastic is easy to clean from dirt, it does not absorb dust and the smell of cigarette smoke. The curtains are attached above the window glass. Disadvantages include rapid fading in the sun and limited size. Manufacturers produce standard product forms.

Frame products

Frame curtains on a car look modern, strictly matching the size and shape of the window. From a distance you might think it's window tinting. Although they are similar in functionality. The structure consists of a rubber-coated metal frame over which fabric is stretched. The disadvantage of such models is the inability to open the window after installation. Glass fogging is often observed, which impairs visibility on the road. Despite this, frame curtains for the front windows of cars are practical and aesthetically pleasing.

PVC curtains for the gazebo.

Today, PVC curtains deserve very good reviews from owners of summer cottages with gazebos. Such curtains serve as a 100% barrier from negative natural phenomena and protection from both insects and rain, dust, leaves, strong wind, snow, cold (they are able to protect internal heat, and if necessary, you can even install an electric fireplace in the room), they able to withstand temperatures from - 40 to + 60 degrees.

Such curtains are very light and at the same time durable, they have all the advantages of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) materials. They can be used all year round.

They are completely transparent, so you will feel in contact with nature naturally. But they have one significant drawback - they do not allow air to pass through.

Car curtains instead of DIY tinting

Hi all! The warm season is coming, so it is important to talk about such a topic as car curtains. These are quite useful and interesting devices, around which there is a lot of controversy and conversation.

From my personal experience, I can say that tinting causes many more problems than curtains. And the whole point is that the first one is glued, and the second one can be quickly removed if necessary.

Here it will be relevant to talk about the issue of the legality of such devices. Many people believe that installation is completely legal, so they put them in trucks, cars, etc.

I will try to tell you about the legality of such elements, what they are and how you can make them yourself.

Appearance and purpose

Most car owners don't like it when the car's interior is clearly visible from the street. Passers-by look into the windows and ask something. Tinted car windows are prohibited, and drivers install screens on their car's front windows instead of tinting.

To ensure that the light filter, dimensions and shape of the mesh frame match, they are made for a specific car brand.

Automatic curtains are used by drivers to:

• block access to someone else's view;
• improve the appearance of the car;
• protect the car interior from overheating;
• protect the upholstery from direct sunlight.

In addition, the glass curtain has several significant advantages:

• plays the role of a mosquito net, preventing insects from entering the cabin;
• dissipates the flow of wind, there will be no draft when the window is open;
• smokers can purchase special curtains with magnetic corners.

The mesh is a removable design. It is installed depending on weather conditions or driver preferences due to a unique and simple mounting principle. Clips made of plastic are mounted in the glass seal. They hold the net. This method is a definite advantage, because you do not need to dismantle the door trim or use glue, which will save money. It’s easy to install the curtain yourself, without going to a car service.

Frame car blinds retain their position even when the windows are lowered. This allows the car owner to breathe fresh air without removing the frame.

There are several disadvantages:

• you won’t be able to put your elbow on the window;
• when the window is open, dust and dirt will settle on the mesh;
• the frame structure cannot be rolled up; you need to think about where it will be stored;
• visibility in the rear seats is worse due to the angle of refraction;
• if the auto curtain is selected incorrectly, a rattling sound can be heard while driving;
• if the light transmittance of the mesh does not meet the standards, it is good if the inspector limits himself to a fine. In the worst case, this can cause an accident.

The Trokot and Laitovo nets are loved by drivers due to the quality of their products. Curtains on cars have no flaws, and their service life is 5 years.

Functions of car curtains

The main functions of car curtains include:

1. car curtains protect people in the car from direct sunlight;
2. car curtains protect passengers and car belongings from the views of surrounding people;
3. car curtains reduce the temperature in the cabin, thereby increasing comfort and protecting the upholstery and other finishing materials from damage by ultraviolet radiation;
4. car curtains increase driving safety by diffusing headlight light at night (when installed on the rear window);
5. car curtains create an atmosphere of comfort and coziness in the cabin and give the car a progressive look;
6. the use of car curtains increases the efficiency of a car air conditioner (up to 30%;), while reducing its wear and fuel consumption.

Car curtains, unlike tinting, can be quickly removed and installed, so when parked for a long time on sunny days, they can be mounted on all windows for the comfort of passengers.

Considering these functions, we can conclude that curtains for a car are a necessary accessory and the safety and comfort and even the well-being of passengers depend on its properties and quality.

Varieties

If you do not take into account various sun-reflective coatings or plastic glass covers, several categories can be distinguished from the whole variety.

Most often found on domestic roads:

1. Classic (sliding) - the most common fabric removable car curtains, fixed to the windows using 2 horizontal curtain rods. The main advantage of this product is the ability to match the body color.

   Options for a two-layer sample are allowed, where the street one matches the car, and the inner one is combined with the tonality of the interior. Such curtains can make a car stand out not only by its appearance, but also by its layout with all kinds of clamps of various types. The main disadvantage is that when fully extended, they do not allow the driver to see what is happening on the side of his car.

2. Screen ones are considered the most affordable and simplest option for protection from prying eyes and sunlight. Installation of the grids is carried out using silicone suction cups that are fixed directly to the glass.

   One of the advantages is the low cost, and the disadvantage is that they do not cover the entire window area. Most often, such products are sold in the shape of a rectangle with beveled corners, so you can’t count on complete protection here. Suction cups of poor quality do not allow us to talk about this product as a model that can provide serious competition, since they quickly become unusable.

3. Roll - in comparison with analogues, they can be called a mobile version, since they work on the principle of a roll mechanism and open in one movement.

   Based on the cost, they are slightly superior to screens, but are not without obvious drawbacks. First of all, it should be noted that rolls are manufactured according to standard sizes, which does not provide a guarantee that the window opening will be completely closed. In addition, due to the aforementioned folding mechanism, they wear out quickly. Therefore, they are enough for no more than 1 year.

4. Frame - in this segment they are considered a “premium class” product. This is explained by the fact that complete closure of the window opening is ensured, since production concentrates on the manufacture of models intended directly for a specific brand of car.

   Their presence does not interfere with lowering and raising the glass; in addition, they provide reliable protection against insects. They look like a frame with a stretched perforated mesh, the cells of which can be of different diameters.

Fixation is carried out in two ways:

1. On hooks held by the door seal.
2. On magnets, the price of which is slightly higher, since they are easier to install and further operate.

TOP 5 best frame curtain models in 2021

Every car owner is familiar with the fact that when exposed to sunlight, the interior heats up and being in it is hazardous to health. Overheating of the machine can cause the failure of some parts, the plastic panel will burn out and change color.

Curtains can solve the problem. The following models have proven themselves well among car enthusiasts:

Legathon

The product catalog contains about 1000 product models for various car brands. The mesh is easy to clean. The frame is attached using magnets or clips almost instantly. The clamps are quite strong and can withstand gusts of wind. Clips can be used instead of magnetic locks. The minimum price is 1500 rubles. The cost depends on the make of the car.

The material allows air to pass through perfectly. The driver's visibility is maintained, which is important. With the windows open, but with curtains installed, passengers feel comfortable and protected from direct sunlight.

KARTEX

Models are made from special synthetic fabric. They are UV resistant, do not fade, prevent glare and penetration of direct sunlight, and are moisture resistant. They do not rattle when traveling because they fit tightly into the opening. The manufacturer provides a guarantee for the long service life of the product.

The company's branches are located in many cities of our country, so the order reaches the buyer in a matter of days.

Laitovo

The manufacturer offers 4 lines:

The price range depends on the make of the car and averages 2,500 rubles.

Dimform

An inexpensive option for interior protection. The curtain consists of a special material that does not require special care. It does not allow dust and splashes of water to pass through. Protects the car interior from overheating. You can control the production of the kit and enter your wishes. For example, provide slots for smoking or holes for side mirrors. The price range is not significantly different from other models.

Trokot

High-quality products consist of a plastic frame and a rubberized base. The fabric of the product is durable and does not emit odors. The fastening is made with magnetic clamps. The mesh will not sag or stretch during operation.

The company has existed since 2012, but despite such a young age, it has become a leader in the market for these products.

Advantages and disadvantages of tinting

The popularity of car window tinting is facilitated by the numerous advantages of shaded surfaces, because they:

• do not allow excess sunlight to pass through, which is good for the vision of the driver and passengers;
• do not allow the interior trim to fade;
• make the atmosphere cooler;
• protect from the curious glances of strangers;
• give the car a more attractive look.

Tinting is not without its disadvantages:

• the coating does not last forever, and after burning out it loses many of its advantages;
• easily damaged;
• interferes with the view of the road for the driver of a car driving behind a tinted car;
• its presence leads to conflicts with traffic police officers.

And besides, the procedure is quite expensive if the film is of high quality.

We recommend reading about the traffic police fine for tinting. From the article you will learn about the rules for choosing tinting, measuring the degree of glass tinting, and fines for tinting. Find out more about the rules for vehicle inspection here.

Checking the battery with a load fork

Checking the functionality of the battery charge using a load plug allows you to determine the functionality of the battery being used on the machine. This load plug must be connected to the battery with correct polarity. If the load plug shows the battery charge at 12-13 V, this indicates high-quality charging of the battery and its ability to work under load. If during such a test the voltage drops below 9 V, then such a battery is unreliable and is considered unsuitable for use.

Rating of the best manufacturers of sun blinds

TROKOT

Rating: 5.0

The young Russian company TROKOT was founded in 2012. The founders of the company decided to rely on frame sun screens as an alternative to auto glass tinting. Production began in a small garage of 20 square meters. m, in a month it was possible to produce up to 25 sets. Today, the monthly plan has exceeded 8,000 sets, and new materials and technologies are being used to improve quality. Product supplies have been established not only to the regions of the country, but also to Armenia, Germany, Israel and Sweden. Experts appreciated the progress in the company’s work, giving the brand the laurels of the winner.

Car enthusiasts had many complaints about the first curtains, but the manufacturer even went so far as to replace them with new models after 3-4 years. The ease of installation and removal is commendable.

• reliable protection from prying eyes;
• simple installation;
• good quality;
• attractive look.

I have to wait a long time for my order.

Skyway

Rating: 4.9

The Chinese brand Skyway began conquering the vast Russian market in 2012 from the regions of Siberia. With 20 years of experience behind it, the company very quickly increased its sales volumes. If in 2012 the number of automobile accessories was only 40 items, then by 2021 this figure has increased to 3892. Today, the brand has sales offices in 40 cities of our country, where a wide range of sun blinds is presented. Experts included the brand in our rating for its affordable prices, interesting designs, and stylish appearance.

Russian motorists note the effectiveness of Skyway sunscreens, the ability to adjust to window dimensions and attractive prices. Among the shortcomings, the most often mentioned is poor glue on the fasteners.

• affordable price;
• efficiency;
• stylish appearance;
• easy installation.

bad glue on fastenings.

EscO

Rating: 4.8

In the mid-price category, EscO sunblinds occupy a leading position. The manufacturer uses high-quality mesh that retains its elasticity for many years. It is noteworthy that the company’s employees decided to promote their products through social networks. Over the course of a couple of years, thousands of clients became interested in curtains, and dozens more entrepreneurs offered cooperation. The catalog contains curtains for a wide range of cars, including domestic VAZ and UAZ cars. After analyzing reviews on thematic sites, the magazine’s editors came to the conclusion that the brand is the most popular in our country.

Most often, users consider the optimal ratio of price and quality. Some car enthusiasts had difficulties with installation; the curtains do not always fit in size.

• reasonable price;
• good quality;
• reliable materials;
• high popularity.

inaccurate dimensions.

PHANTOM

Rating: 4.7

The Chinese manufacturer of sun blinds PHANTOM has come up with the most original mounting method. The screen is held on the glass by electrostatic attraction. The light weight of the mesh prevents it from falling while moving. The curtain does not interfere with opening the windows, and after removal there are no marks left on the glass. Experts included the brand in our review for its uniqueness, simplicity and affordability. Unfortunately, the catalog is limited to a few standard sizes, so choosing the perfect curtain for the window is problematic.

Users note the simple method of fastening, ease of use, and affordability. They are dissatisfied with the small size and the presence of a hazy effect, due to which the visibility of the road situation in bad weather deteriorates.

• original fastening;
• ease;
• leaves no traces of glue;
• convenient to use.

• small sizes;
• Visibility deteriorates.

Laitovo

Rating: 4.6

The German company Laitovo is a large manufacturer of sun screens for car windows. Products are supplied to the EU, USA, Asia and the Middle East. There are more than 50 branded stores in Russia. Experts consider the main advantages of curtains to be strength (which is provided by the steel frame) and durability (thanks to wear-resistant fabric). The manufacturer's catalog contains products for a huge number of brands and models of cars.

Owners of domestic Lada cars are not deprived of attention. You can choose a curtain not only for classics, but also for new AvtoVAZ products (Vesta, Xray).

Russian motorists praise the German brand for its competent advertising, high-quality mesh, and speed of installation and removal. But the quality still needs work, and visibility deteriorates in bad weather.

Advantages and disadvantages of frame curtains

Mesh screens for auto glass immediately gained recognition among users. Some people like their light-protective properties, others like freedom from dust and insects, and others feel comfortable being away from intrusive glances.

In fact, the list of advantages of auto curtains is much longer:

• Frame curtains for car windows are made of a special type of fabric. The material provides excellent visibility for the driver and at the same time reliably hides the contents of the cabin from strangers.
• The mesh does not interfere with air circulation, allowing you to ventilate the car without fear of dust and insects. Properly installed frame curtains do not interfere with the operation of the window regulators.
• Various product options are available: shortened, with holes for mirrors and even special devices for smoking drivers.
• Thanks to the durable frame, the curtains stay securely in place even with open windows and high speeds. Some manufacturers guarantee that the mesh will not fly out of the frame for three years.
• Removable car frame curtains can be easily installed on your own without resorting to specialists. Options with magnetic fastening can be installed and removed in a couple of seconds.
• High-quality protective screens do not fade in the sun, do not tear, do not stretch from the wind and do not warp in the cold. Color fastness lasts for three years.
• Curtains block from 50 to 85% of sunlight and almost do not allow ultraviolet radiation to pass through. The result is a more comfortable temperature in the cabin.

Despite positive reviews from car enthusiasts, the design of protective frame curtains still has a number of shortcomings:

• The fastenings of most models are not masked by anything and, with the frames removed, are quite clearly visible around the perimeter of the windows.
• A mesh that completely covers the window opening is an obstacle to communication with people standing nearby and to passing objects through the window.
• High-density fabric may lose transparency at certain angles, making it difficult to drive.
• Some car enthusiasts are not happy with the appearance of a car with frames when the windows are open. In this regard, the curtains are still inferior to the usual tinting.
• Using screens in rainy weather contributes to the formation of condensation on the inside of the glass, which again interferes with driving.

Having compared the advantages and disadvantages of frame curtains with the classic tinting of car windows with tinting film, many drivers buy frame curtains only for the front windows, and prefer to tint the rear windows with film.

Important information

Darkening the interior of a car can be done using tinting and a number of other methods, among which one of the most common is installing curtains.

This design is designed to close the window opening if necessary, and if the need for the opposite arises, the curtain can be quickly pulled back.

The basis of the curtain is a frame, inside of which the fabric is stretched. The frame of the structure can be attached to the window opening in various ways.

Common types of curtains include fabric, magnetic, frame, and retractable roller blinds.

Installation of any of these options is relatively simple, so any car enthusiast can do it.

At the same time, the law establishes the same standards for light admission for curtains as for tinting, so they must comply with them; no changes are provided for curtains in the rules.

Initial data

Blackout curtains are structures that are mounted on a window in various ways. Some of them are stationary, others are motionless. They are based on a frame on which the fabric is stretched.

The common property of these structures is that they remain in place even when the window is open. Therefore, they can be used for darkening by lowering the glass itself.

Installing curtains on windows is not a very complicated process, but it will take some work.

What is the benefit of dimming?

Dimming car windows provides a number of benefits to the driver and passengers:

Current regulatory framework

The current regulatory framework for tinting consists of the following regulations:

1. Technical regulations adopted by the CU countries “On the safety of wheeled vehicles” (TR CU 018/2011).
2. State standard, which describes the acceptable parameters for glass installed in cars and other land vehicles (GOST 32565-2013).
3. Included in the Road Traffic Rules in the form of an appendix “Basic provisions for the approval of a vehicle for operation and the responsibilities of officials to ensure road safety.”
4. Code of Administrative Offenses (CAO).

Responsibility for the use of car curtains

It is necessary to remind motorists that while parked, when the car is not used for its intended purpose, the owner has the right to use any means of tinting, be it curtains, blinds or a blanket. But while driving, the driver does not have the right to use objects, means, or coatings that limit (degrade) visibility and visibility.

The installation of curtains or nets of any light transmission is not a violation of traffic rules until they are closed. In fact, this means that the owner in the parking lot has the right to close the curtain and there is no penalty for this.

The traffic rules do not prohibit the installation of curtains or blinds on the rear doors and rear window, provided there is normal visibility through the side mirrors. The use of curtains or other devices that reduce light transmission on the front side windows and windshield is strictly prohibited.

In case of violation of the requirements of traffic rules regarding the use of car curtains, liability is provided in accordance with the Code of Administrative Offenses - a warning, a fine, depending on the inspector’s classification of the use of curtains.