Car Window Tinting: This Is How Long It Lasts

When it comes to car window tinting, you should understand how long it'll last. Keep reading to learn more about the average lifespan.

There are plenty of reasons to tint your car's windows. Tints can protect your car's interior from UV rays, reduce glare so you can drive safely, and lend your car a classy, stylized appearance. 

But how long does car window tinting last? It can be quite an investment, so you need to be prepared.

Fortunately, many window tints can last a significant amount of time. It depends on the quality of the tinting film, whether it was professionally installed, and how well you take care of it.

Read on to learn all about the lifespan of window tints and how you preserve yours.

What Affects A Window Tint's Longevity?

Not all window tints are created equal. Some can last decades while others will look shabby after just a year. A number of factors affect your window tint lifespan. 

The Kind Of Window Tint Film You Use

The most important factor in determining how long your window tint will last is the quality of the film. If you use a standard, inexpensive film, you shouldn't expect your tint to last very long. It will need to be scraped off and replaced after a short amount of time.

However, higher-quality films can last much longer. If you opt for a film made with metal, carbon, or ceramic, your tint can last years. The highest quality tints can even outlast your vehicle's powertrain, although you'll have to stay on top of maintenance to see those results.

Standard Film

Standard window tint film relies on dye to give it its color. If you buy a cheap window tint from an auto parts store or an online shop, it's going to be this sort of film. You'll also apply it to your windows yourself.

You'll save a significant amount of money upfront if you go for this option, but it won't last very long. You'll likely be replacing it in a year, although some can last a little longer than that.

Metalized Film

Metalized window tint film has small metal particles infused in the tint film. This helps it reflect heat away from the car, rather than just blocking it out as a dye tint film does.

This sort of film can last around five years before it starts to degrade. You'll spend a bit more money on metalized film and will need to get it professionally installed.

Some may want to avoid metalized film, as it can interfere with GPS and cell phone signals.

Hybrid Film

Hybrid film combines the dye of standard tint film with the metallic particles present in metalized film. You'll get the heat-reflecting benefits of metalized film without the signal disturbance.

Hybrid film is more expensive than standard film but cheaper than metalized film. It'll last around five years.

Carbon Film

Carbon film is the second-highest quality tint you can find. It's made of highly-durable carbon, so they are incredibly effective at blocking out the sun's rays and can last a significant amount of time.

You'll pay more for a carbon tint than a metalized tint, but you'll get around ten years out of it on average.

Ceramic Film

Of all types of window tints, this is the highest quality on the market. Ceramic is the most efficient at providing sun protection, and it won't degrade over time.

Naturally, these tints are the most expensive, but they can last for decades if properly cared for.

UV Exposure

If you've ever driven past a car and seen an ugly, bubbling mess of a window tint, you've seen what effect the sun can have on window tint film.

Over time, the sun's UV rays can break down your tint film. Lower-end films, like the standard option, tend to break down much quicker than higher-quality films.

Those who live in a warmer area that gets a lot of direct sunlight are more susceptible to this sun damage than those who live in more moderate climates.

Application Process

You can buy window tints and apply them yourself or you can have them applied by a professional auto detailer. Tints applied by a professional will last significantly longer than ones applied by an amateur.

When installing a window tint film, it's imperative that the film is applied evenly. If it's not, air bubbles will weaken the film's adhesion and shorten the life span of your tint.

Caring For Your Window Tint

Proper maintenance goes a long way in preserving your auto window tinting. Even the highest quality tints can deteriorate if they're not properly cared for.

In the few days after you apply a tint, you'll want to keep your car's windows rolled up and avoid taking it to the car wash. Both of these things can prevent the tint from fully adhering to the window. 

When it comes time to clean your car, you need to take special care of your tinted windows. Before using soap and water, take a soft rag and gently wipe dirt and debris from the windows.

You should also pay special attention to the bottom seal of each window. Dirt collects in this area and damages the tint when you raise or lower the window.

You'll also want to look for specialized window cleaners. These won't damage the tint while other cleaning chemicals can. Cleaners with ammonia in them are especially prone to ruining window tint work.

Depending on the kind of tint film you applied, your car detailing professional may offer additional cleaning and maintenance tips.

Get Your Car Window Tinting Done By A Professional

Some car window tinting can last a decade or more while others can survive for only a year. If you're concerned about maximizing the longevity of your window tinting, you need to opt for a quality tint film and have it applied by a professional window tinting service. 

Trust your window tint work to Leo's Touch Window Tinting in Tampa, Florida. The shop carries all sorts of high-quality window tints and even backs up their work with their own no-fault warranty. Get in touch with them to schedule an appointment today.