I. Introduction
Are you tired of the bright sun rays and prying eyes of strangers every time you drive? Tinting your windows is a convenient way of getting the privacy and comfort you desire. Window tinting not only enhances the appearance of your car but also keeps the inside from overheating. In this article, we will give you helpful tips on how to tint windows with ease.
II. Step-by-Step Guide
To tint windows, you don’t need to be a professional installer. With some patience and practice, you can apply your tint like an expert. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Cleaning the Windows
Ensure that the surface of your windows is clean and dry. Dirt and dust can make the tinting film stick unevenly and ruin the final look. Use a soft cleaning towel, soap, and water or any other glass cleaner to achieve a clean surface.
Step 2: Measuring and Cutting the Tinting Film
Measure the dimensions of the windows to determine the size of the film you will need. Cut the film into your desired shape and size from the roll. Be precise with your cutting to prevent wastage.
Step 3: Applying the Tinting Film
Spray some water (with a little soap) onto the window’s surface. Peel off the liner from the film and place it on the wet surface. Use a squeegee to remove the bubbles and position the film correctly. Repeat the process for all the windows.
Step 4: Trimming and Finishing the Job
Once the film is in position, trim off any excess with a sharp knife. Use a paper towel or cloth to remove any leftover water and bubbles from the window’s surface. Your window tinting job is complete!
Remember, it’s crucial to let the tint cure for 2-3 days before cleaning or wiping it.
III. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Tinting windows needs some finesse. Avoid the following mistakes:
Mistake 1: Not cleaning the windows properly
Most people gloss over cleaning the windows. This is a costly mistake. Ensure that the surface of your windows is spotless. Clean them multiple times to eliminate any dirt, grime or dust residues.
Mistake 2: Not measuring or cutting the tinting film accurately
Making mistakes when measuring or cutting the film may cause overcuts or improper sizing, leading to wastage or poor installation. Take your time and measure twice to avoid unnecessary errors.
Mistake 3: Not applying the tinting film correctly
Improperly applying the tint may result in air pockets, creases or bumpy surfaces. Apply the tint slowly, using your squeegee to push out bubbles and creases as you go.
Mistake 4: Not allowing the tinting film to dry properly
Avoid wiping or cleaning the tint until it’s correctly dried. The curing time varies depending on the type of film used. Be patient! If you touch or clean it before it dries completely, you risk leaving behind streaks, marks, or even peeling off the window tinting film.
IV. Different Types of Tinting Film
Choosing the right film for your car can be daunting. There are various types of films on the market, each with its own unique features. We will help you differentiate between them.
Dyed Tinting Film
This type of film uses a dye to filter sunlight and reduce glare. It is the most affordable option and requires minimal maintenance. However, as it ages, the film may turn purple and block radio signals.
Metalized Tinting Film
This film contains tiny metal particles that reflect the sun’s rays and protect against UV rays. It is very durable but may interfere with cell phone and navigation signals.
Ceramic Tinting Film
This film is the most advanced and most expensive. With a combination of ceramic particles and adhesive, the film blocks out infrared and ultraviolet rays while allowing visible light. It also doesn’t interfere with electronic signals.
V. Tools and Equipment Needed
To tint your windows, you will need the following:
- Tinting Film
- Squeegee
- Knife
- Soap and Water solution
- Measuring Tape
- Cloth/Paper Towel
VI. Legal Regulations
Window tinting laws vary per state and country. For example, in the United States, each state has its window tinting regulations. Overly dark tints not only blocks UV rays, but it also affects the visibility of the driver. Consult your state’s DMV website to know your exact legal limit. The percentage allowed is usually measured VLT (Visual Light Transmission) percentage; the higher the percentage, the more visible light allowed through your windows.
VII. Customer Reviews/Expert Opinions
Don’t just take our word for it. We’ve gone ahead and compiled reviews from customers and experts on the best window tinting options.
LLumar ATC Film
This film is affordable, has a 99% ultraviolet rejection rate and comes with a five-year warranty. It also offers a high level of privacy from outside viewers. However, some reviewers complained about the dark shade.
SunTek Carbon Film
This line of tinting films provides privacy with its non-reflective and non-metalized designs, suitable for GPS and cell phone signal. Customers found it easy to install and also appreciated the film’s heat rejection results.
VIII. Conclusion
We hope this article helps you tint your windows like a pro! Remember to avoid the common mistakes, choose the right film for your needs, learn the legal limit regarding the VLT percentage, and read customer reviews before making a purchase. With our guide, a little patience, and practice, you can have beautiful, tinted windows in no time.
