Window tinting your vehicle is a great way to improve looks, provide privacy, protect the interior from harmful UV rays, and stay cool during the height of summer.
Whilst many choose to go to a window tinting specialist, it is possible to complete the job yourself and save some money. Here’s our step-by-step guide to installing your own window tints.
Step one: Clean
The first step is to clean the interior glass, where you’re going to apply the film, and also exterior glass, which you’ll be using to measure and cut the film. Make sure all grease, dirt, marks and smears are removed. It’s best to use a squeegee and low lint cloth, making sure all dirt is removed from between the window and gasket. This is extremely important as any residue will be trapped under the tint film forever.
Step two: Cutting
A tricky step and you may choose to go for pre-cut tints to avoid this. If you choose to cut your own, then first spray the outside of the window with water (this will hold it in place) and roll the film onto it with the adhesive side facing up.
Position the film and cut with a craft or Stanley knife, following the lines of the window frame, and cutting the vertical edges first. Leave between ¼ and ⅕ an inch below the top of the inside gasket (at the bottom) and ample room above the top of the window. To cut along the top edge, first roll the window down about two inches. Carefully round out any rough corners.
Step three: Application
Now you have cut the film to size, remember that you’re adding the tint to the inside of the window! After another clean, remove the liner to expose the adhesive and generously spray both the newly exposed adhesive and the inside of the glass with Application Solution.
Then, place the wet adhesive against the inside of the glass leaving about an eighth of an inch gap at the top edge of the window. Using the soft edge of your squeegee, press the top of the film firmly to the glass pressing out all solution from under the film.
Work your way down the window, pressing the film behind the seals. When about halfway down, make sure the bottom is clean and slide the bottom of the film under the gasket making sure not to crease. Once the film is tucked under the gasket, use the squeegee to push the remaining water out from under the film. Push any bubbles out through the nearest edge.
To finish, wrap a dry low lint cloth around the hard edge of the squeegee and press out from the middle to the edges.
Voila, now you have a tinted window!
Final thoughts
The above is a general guide and may not be applicable for every tint job. Always read the tint manufacturers guidelines.
Whilst adding your own window tinting is achievable, you may find it better leaving it to the professionals. Feel free to reach out with any questions you might have and get a free estimate. What’s the harm?