Tips for Keeping Your Tinting in Tip Top Shape

There are lot of reasons to tint your windows, whether for your car or your building — appearance, heat- and glare-reduction, UV-protection, and increased security and comfort. But once you have your tinting done, how do you take care of it and ensure it stays in tip top shape?

Fortunately, the principals of tint care are pretty straightforward and simple:

• Don’t roll your windows down or open them for 2 – 4 days post-tinting. This allows the tinting time to cure and properly adhere to the window surface.
• Wait a minimum of one week before cleaning the interior of the window, whether auto or building. Tinting is applied on the interior, so cleaning the exterior won’t hurt it, but again, you want to safeguard against accidentally damaging the tinting before it has time to properly adhere.
• After the waiting period, it’s equally important to use the proper cleaning products. The key is to use an ammonia-free, non-abrasive cleaner as both will wear the tinting; ammonia will actually eat away at it over time. Some examples of cleaners that are safe to use:
  • Green Works Window Cleaner or Windex Crystal Rain or any clear window cleaner (stay away from anything blue, as that indicates the presence of ammonia)
  • There are also cleaners specially formulated for window tinting; EagleOne 20/20 is an example of one
  • Simple soap and water
  • A vinegar/water solution
• Be careful with large or hard objects with sharp edges — anything that might chip or damage. In your car, be careful not to snap car seat belts into the window when you exit, which can cause small chips
• One more thing to keep in mind is that it is normal in the first 7-10 days to see bubbles, haze, or cloud in the film. They will evaporate over time on their own — generally, it takes longer if it’s cloudy and overcast outside vs hot and sunny — so don’t worry about them and don’t try to take care of them yourself: that may cause a crease in the film.

Keep to these essential rules and you’ll have no problem keeping your tinting investment looking great.