The window tint application process basically breaks down to a four-step process for the professional auto salon. If you’re looking for tips on how to install a DIY window tint, it’s always best to refer to the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer. For those who’d like a general understanding on how window tint is applied, this video on window tint installation will provide some great information.
As the saying goes – prep work makes the dream work. This is especially important when applying a new window film tint to your car, truck, or SUV. Once you pick the type of window tint, the tint percentage, and other custom factors, the installer will begin the process by prepping the windows that will be applied.
Prep work is always customized by the auto salon completing the tint installation based on a few variables. First, the condition of the existing window. If you have a new car – direct from the factory, the amount of grime or other cleaners / treatments is going to be less severe than an older vehicle. If you have a car with an existing window tint, it will have to be removed – which can be tricky.
The main objective with prep work is to ensure the installer has a perfectly clean canvass to work with. They use special cleaners and prep solutions to ensure there is no oil, grease, or film left on the window prior to application.
The second step is to measure the window receiving the tint and fitting it for a seamless installation. Most professional tint installers will complete most of the measuring, fitting, and final cutting on the outside of the window.
The process within this step will vary based on the exact type of window tint you’re purchasing. Some are pre-cut based on manufacturer’s specs, others must be custom measured, fitted, and cut by hand. There isn’t a benefit either way – especially if you’re having a certified window tint installer complete the service.
Again, this step will vary based on the specific tint material, and the techniques recommended by the tint manufacturer. Typically, the installation or application of the window tint on the inside is the quickest part of the overall tint job – as measuring, fitting, and cutting tends to take the most time.
The window tint is always applied on the inside of the window, so several variables including the access to the windows, how much fabrication (or removing trims pieces and such) is needed, and simple ‘moving around space’ can extend the time for installation.
Professional auto salons will provide a transparent estimate based on your specific vehicle, the amount of windows you want to tint, and any other expenses associated.
Before your car is handed over, the professional detailer will take the time to ensure everything is cleaned, the window film has cured, and you’re aware of any post purchase restrictions. Most window tints require the car owner to not roll down windows for a day or two, to ensure the adhesive has dried and fully bonded to the window.
In fact, research shows that the temperature inside a car climbs 19 degrees above the outside temperature in 10 minutes! After an hour, the temperature inside the vehicle rises to about 45 degrees hotter than the temperature outside.
Let’s say it this way: hopefully, you aren’t on your way to an important appointment, meeting, or event because your face is bound to be flushed, and sweat spots will likely be soaking through your clothing.
Thankfully, quality window tint can keep the interior of your vehicle comfortable, even on the most oppressive days.
At Sun Stoppers, we want you climbing out of your vehicle feeling fresh. But we also know that window tint does a lot more than keeping you cool.
We’re talking about things like increasing your privacy, protecting your car’s interior, and defending your skin from the sun – and that’s just the beginning.
We know what window film is in the most basic sense: it’s a thin laminate film that can be installed on glass surfaces in automobiles, boats, homes, and commercial buildings.
It is easily recognized by how it often darkens glass and creates an attractive finish on any type of window.
Exploring the science behind window tint is incredibly fascinating. Let’s take a look!
Although there are many types of window tinting film on the market, most window films start as small pellets of a material called polyethylene terephthalate or PET.
Window TintingPET is used as the base material for window tints because it has marvelous optical clarity and strength.
To begin, PET pellets are first melted down into a semi-liquid state. Once in that form, the material is stretched into polyester sheets.
Other chemicals and materials that block ultraviolet (UV) light are typically added during this stretching process.
Next, dyes or metals are added to the polyester sheeting. Whether a dye or metal is added depends upon the intended type, quality, and function of the film.
The newest and highest-quality window films may add carbon or ceramic particles to the polyester sheeting rather than metal or dye.
different kinds of materials are added to window tint
Once the film is fused with the metal, dye, carbon, or ceramic particles, a scratch-resistant layer is applied to the film on the side that faces the interior of the home, office, or vehicle.
Once the film is fused with the metal, dye, carbon, or ceramic particles, a scratch-resistant layer is applied to the film on the side that faces the interior of the home, office, or vehicle.
This layer is meant to protect the window film from anything that may hit or scrape the window. It provides added protection so that the film can last for a long time and is not marred by a minor scratch.
Finally, an industrial-strength adhesive is applied to the window film for longevity and to ensure that it does not peel or bubble.
At the end of the window tint manufacturing process, several materials are combined so that certain types of light rays are allowed through the glass while others are reflected or absorbed.
As you probably noticed, different kinds of materials can be added to polyethylene terephthalate to create various types of window film.
For example, a dye can be added to make dyed window tint, or metal could be added to create metalized window tint.
Each type of window film has a particular set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s well worth our time to look at each of them!
Dyed window tint is a good option if your primary goal is adding privacy to your vehicle or if you like the appearance of dark windows.
dyed window tint creates a dark appearance
In fact, dyed window film provides the darkest effect of any window tint option.