What Do You Need to Tint Windows?

Many people have the windows on their car, home or business tinted by a professional, but you can save a load of money by learning how to tint your windows yourself. You can apply window tints to windshields, front-side windows and wings, rear-side windows and wings and back windows. Tinting your own windows can give do-it-yourself hobbyists a great way to learn a new skill and feel accomplished. You can tint your windows with a few simple steps and tools, and it serves many benefits. 

Why Should You Tint Your Windows?

Tinted windows create a statement look for your vehicle, especially matte (flat) window tints. Let’s say you have a black car. Adding window tints can make your car look sleek by creating a completely black look. Tinting your windows provides more than just aesthetic advantages — it serves many practical purposes, too. 

Some practical reasons for tinting your windows include the following:

Cooler Vehicle, Home or Business 

Window tints act like sunglasses, shading your vehicle interior, home or business. With window tints, less heat and light get through to the inside, causing your vehicle or building to feel cooler and more comfortable when the outside temperatures are high. You can run the air conditioner less often or at a slower speed with window tinting.

Better Temperature Control 

When it's warm outside, whether year-round or only during the summer months, your car can become like a sauna. When your windows are tinted, your vehicle stays cooler for longer when the air conditioner is running. The same happens in your home or business, which can help you save money by using less energy to run your air conditioner. In the winter, tinted windows can trap the heat inside, which also helps reduce utility bills in your home or business and keep your space warmer for longer.

Increased Protection And Privacy 

Window tint can increase the protection of items in vehicles, homes and businesses by making the windows darker. It makes it more difficult for potential thieves to see what’s inside, reducing the chance of them breaking in to steal belongings.

Preserved Vehicle Interior 

The reduced sunlight helps preserve the integrity and look of your vehicle's interior. One main reason why people tint their windows is to protect their car interior from damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays and prevent fading or wear. Sunlight and heat can cause leather and plastic to crack and colors to fade. 

Increased Vehicle Value

Some people who purchase new or used vehicles like models with tinted windows. Because tints offer increased protection and interior preservation, they could potentially add more resale value to a vehicle. In locations with warmer climates, having tinted windows can be especially desirable to avoid interior damage and add cooling capabilities. If you're trying to sell your car, tints could be an unexpected bonus that convinces the dealer or buyer to make the purchase.

There's also an added element of convenience, as the buyer won't have to add tinting themselves.

Reduced Risk of Cancer

Window tints block and reflect harmful UV rays from the sun. Constant exposure to a high amount of UV rays could cause skin cancers like melanoma, so it's imperative to reduce your exposure when possible — and windows tints can help. Blocking UV rays can also help keep your skin looking healthier and younger for longer, making yourself look more attractive in addition to preserving your car!

Tools Needed to Tint Windows

If you're looking to tint your windows soon, there are several tint tools you should have on hand for every window tinting project. The exact items you need to complete your window tinting can vary depending on what kind of tint you're installing, but the following list includes some must-have tint tools to consider:

• Window tint: This is a given! There are five different types of window tints you can install, and you'll want to research each to choose the best one before making your final purchase.
• Razorblade or scraper: You can use a razorblade or scraper to remove any particles that might be stuck to the windows before applying the tint.
• Utility knife: Use a utility knife to cut your window tint after measuring it to the correct size.
• Squeegee: A squeegee will help you remove all the cleaning liquid from the windows before applying the window tint. A squeegee will also be helpful in removing any air bubbles under the tint after you apply it. For larger windows like those in your home, a larger flat squeegee is better. For car windows, a smaller and pointier squeegee can get the job done.
• Hard card: Similar in size and shape to a credit card, a hard card works like a squeegee to push air bubbles out from under the applied tint. You can also use a hard card to flatten the tint when applying it in tight places. This item is a great option for tight corners that a squeegee may not be able to fit into.
• Lint-free cloth: Make sure you have a couple of lint-free cloths handy. You will need one to dry the windows after cleaning them. You may also want to have one to layer over your squeegee if you have to remove air bubbles after applying the tint. 
• Heat gun: A heat gun may not be necessary for every tint job. However, if your windows have many curves, you can use a heat gun to apply the tint to round edges with great accuracy.
• Dish soap: Dish soap is necessary to make soapy water for cleaning the windows before applying the tint.
• Spray bottles: You will need spray bottles to spray water and application fluids on the windows. You can find cheap spray bottles at your local dollar store. If you want a spray bottle made to hold more potent chemicals, check out your local hardware, automotive or home improvement store. 
• Duct tape: During the application process, you will need tape to hold the tint to one side of the window while you attach the other.
• Measuring tape: Before you can apply the tint to your windows, you will need to measure your windows to create the right size tint pieces. You can use a measuring tape or ruler to measure.

Steps to Tint Your Windows

Now that you know what window tint tools are necessary, it's time to begin your project. Keep in mind you will need anywhere from two to four hours to complete the tinting, depending on the vehicle or room and your experience level. Schedule some time on the weekend or on a free day to ensure you have adequate time to finish your project.

1. Be Aware of Local Laws

Every state has its own requirements for what tint percentage is legal. Visible Light Tint (VLT) is a measurement indicating how much light shows through your window tint. The higher the percentage, the lighter the tint. In some states, like Arkansas, you can have a 10% rear window tint, meaning 90% of light is blocked from getting through your rear window. On the other hand, a 70% rear window tint is allowed in Pennsylvania, which is much lighter than Arkansas.

Common tint VLTs include:

• 5%
• 15%
• 20%
• 25%
• 30%
• 35%
• 40%
• 50%

2. Choose a Tint

After familiarizing yourself with your local laws about window tints, you can purchase the best one for your application. Each tint type has its advantages and considerations, and some are better for certain goals, so research each thoroughly before buying your tint. Here are the fives types of tints available, listed from least to most expensive:

1. Dyed: Dyed tint is the least expensive option. Dyed film tints are known to delaminate, meaning the layers can separate. However, they provide heat reflection and a dark appearance that increases security, and they don't interfere with electronics. This type requires precision application because it can have a bubbled appearance if not applied correctly.
2. Metalized: Metalized tint consists of multiple layers of material, with metallic particles embedded in its material. It is one of the most durable options because of its thicker film, effectively preventing scratches and nicks. This type of tint can affect the electronics inside your vehicle because of the metal it's made with. If you don’t use electronics like your radio or GPS while driving, you may not mind that characteristic. However, many new vehicles have numerous electronic parts that can be affected by this tint.
3. Hybrid: Hybrid tint is a combination of dyed and metalized tints. Hybrid tints require applying two layers, which is important to consider, as this can be more difficult to apply by yourself. Hybrid tints have a lighter look but still reflect significant heat and UV rays from the sun. The only disadvantage to hybrid tint is that it is more expensive than dyed film tint. 
4. Carbon: Carbon tint provides an authentic matte black appearance for your windows, and they resist fading, making them long-lasting. They don't interfere with electronics because this type isn’t made with any metals. Carbon tints cost more than dyed and metalized tints. 
5. Ceramic: Ceramic tint is the highest quality but also the most expensive. It prevents glare and reflects heat, and it doesn’t fade, impede your vision or interfere with electronics. However, ceramic tints don't provide much privacy, so another option might be better if that’s a priority for you.

Choosing the right tint is important to create the desired look for your vehicle or building and for optimal protection of you, your passengers and your belongings. For your car, you also want to ensure you choose a tint with optimal viewing capabilities to not obstruct your view out of the window.

3. Prepare and Clean Your Windows

Once you choose your desired tint, prepare your windows for the process — this is essential for a successful tint application. Gather all your tools at the beginning to save yourself the time and frustration of searching for needed items. Before you start, ensure you are in a location that's dry and free from excessive dust.

Remove any stickers or decals that may block access to the windows. Clean the windows with automotive window cleaner, and use a squeegee to ensure all water is completely wiped off. Then, dry the windows with a lint-free cloth. 

4. Size Your Tint

If you are a beginner at applying window tint, it might be helpful to use cardboard cutouts of your car's windows to template your tint. If you are experienced at applying window tints, use your car's windows to size the tint. Spray the outside of your window with water while sizing the tint to make sure it stays put.

Use a squeegee to flatten and smooth out the tint roll for more accurate sizing. Make sure the adhesive side of the tint is facing you. Using a knife or razorblade, cut the tint to the size of your windows, but leave an extra one-quarter to a half-inch around the edge of the tint. 

5. Apply the Tint

Spray the application fluid on the inside of the windows. Begin peeling back half of the tint liner. The tint is essentially a big sticker, so be careful not to rip it as you pull the liner off. For sliding windows, roll them down slightly to make sure you cover all parts of the window.

Use your window gaskets as the edge of the tint for accurate application, and use tape to hold the tint in place while you attach the other side. If necessary, continue spraying the adhesive fluid on the windows. 

Use a squeegee to remove any air bubbles under the applied tint, and place a lint-free cloth over the squeegee as an added layer of protection from rips. Repeat this process until all your windows are tinted.

Purchase Your Window Tints From Rvinyl

Without the right window tint, your DIY project can quickly go from "yay" to "nay." Whether you apply carbon or ceramic tints, Rvinyl has the right solutions available to make your window tinting project easy. Choose from our selection of pre-cut tints in an array of tint levels, from 5% to 50%. We have window tints available in numerous options for any job.

Our affordable tint films also include a three-year warranty against cracking, peeling and fading. You won't need to worry about paying an automotive or tint shop to replace any defective window tints. We will gladly replace any defective films! And if you decide you no longer want automotive window tints or move to a place where your tints aren’t allowed, you can easily remove these nonpermanent tints.

Our experts are happy to answer any questions you may have about installing window tints and researching which types are best for your situation. Get in touch with us for more information. If you're ready to order, feel free to purchase your Rvinyl window tints today. We offer free shipping on orders in the United States that total $59.00 or more.