An Overview of the Car Window Tinting Process

Getting your windows tinted is one of the best things you can do for your car, but how does the car window tinting process work? Find out in this guide.

Did you know that the average person spends more than $5,200 on their car every year in the United States? If you want your car to last for the foreseeable future, it's well worth it to invest in updates for your vehicle. One of the best upgrades you can make, especially if you live in sunny Tampa, is to schedule a car window tinting appointment. 

Continue reading to learn what happens when you get a car tint on your windows. As a result, you'll know exactly what to expect when looking for auto window tinting in Tampa. 

Keeping the Tinting Environment Clean

First things first, the tinting technician will make sure that the environment is clean and ready for your car. Most tinting companies have an interior room that's free of wind and dust, so you don't have to worry about contaminants getting stuck between your windows and the tinting film. They'll also vacuum and clean between projects to keep the environment pristine. 

When you're searching for "car window tinting near me," it's important to find an installer who maintains a clean environment. It might be worth it to visit their facility to see what it's like for yourself before deciding who to hire for the job. 

Preparing the Windows

Once the tinting environment is ready, your auto tinting technician will prep your windows. They'll start by washing both sides of the windows with soap and water to remove dust, dirt, and debris. They'll use a sponge and a squeegee during that initial clean. On the outside of your car, they'll also clean the areas near your windows. Generally, this includes the doors, trunk, and hood. 

Finally, they'll take another pass on the interior of your windows, which is where they'll install the film. They'll use soap and water to clean it again and use a razor blade to remove any remaining debris. 

Measuring and Cutting the Tint

Now that the windows are ready, the installer will take measurements of them. They'll use these measurements to cut the initial pieces of tint film. Then, they'll lay the tint against the surface of your window to cut it down so it fits precisely.

The technician will take great care to make sure the sheet of tint aligns with your window, so you won't have to worry about gaps that will let in sun damage to your car's interior.

Once the film is cut to the right size, they'll heat shrink it so it can contour to the glass of the windows. During this process, the installer will smooth out any bumps in the film.

Using a Peel Board to Refine the Edges

When the film is cut to the right size, the technician will use a pane of glass called a peel board and position it on that. They'll use the peel board to make final refinements to the edges of the film. This is also where they'll make any cuts to fit the small details of your windows, including rounding out the corners of the film.

Creating the round corners is a critical step that prevents the film from getting caught when you roll your windows down or up. 

Installing the Film

Once the film is perfectly cut to size, the technician can begin the installation process. Once again, they'll apply a mixture of soap and water to the windows. This will activate the adhesive on the film and allow them to glide the film on the glass to get it in the right position. 

From there, they'll take off the release liner and apply the film to the window. Using a squeegee, they'll push out any large air bubbles or excess solution, so the tint can properly adhere to the window. For smaller air bubbles, the technician will use a plastic scraper to smooth them out. This also helps them ensure that the film sits in the window's rubber lining. 

If needed, they might also use the heat gun again to help the film form against the shape of the window.

Inspecting the Tint

Now that the film is applied to the windows, the installers will do a final inspection. They'll look at both the interior and exterior of the windows to see if they notice any imperfections. If they notice small bumps or air bubbles, they'll continue using the scrapers to smooth them out before the adhesive dries. 

This final inspection is one of the most important parts of the process, as it ensures that you'll be happy with the end result. 

Allowing the Tint to Dry

The final step is to allow the tint to fully dry before using the windows. At this point, the installer will return your car to you and give you instructions on what not to do. Generally speaking, you'll need to let the film fully dry for a least three days before you roll down the windows. 

However, depending on the weather and the type of tint you choose, it may take as long as three full weeks for the tint's adhesive to cure. If you notice small water bubbles or a hazy appearance during that time, it's normal. After the adhesive cures, you're ready to start using your windows and fully enjoying the benefits of tint!

Here for Your Car Window Tinting Needs

Now that you know more about the car window tinting process, what are your waiting for? If you're looking for car window tinting in Tampa, there's no better choice than our team here at Leo’s Touch Window Tinting. We offer only the best window tinting products, so you don't have to worry about the harsh Tampa sun damaging your car's interior. 

Contact us today to request a free estimate for your window tinting project!