How to Install Car Window Tint in 3 Simple Steps

Automotive window tint is an easy and affordable way to add instant pizazz to your ride. Additionally, window tint boosts your privacy and security, prevents your interior from fading, and blocks up to 99.9% of harmful UV rays. With so many great perks, what’s not to love?

While the experienced technicians at Red Rocks Tint always recommend getting your windows tinted by a professional, it is possible to do it yourself. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to ensure you get the best results possible.

Here’s how to install car window tint in three simple steps. 

What are the Different Types of Automotive Window Tints?

Before we begin, it’s important to pick the best window film for your needs. But with so many options out there, how can you find the perfect tint for your vehicle?

There are five main types of automotive window film available on the market. Each has its own unique benefits and drawback. Common types of window tint include:

• Dyed: This is the most basic type of window film there is. Dyed film is perfect for people who are trying tints for the first time. Dyed film is typically used for enhanced aesthetics and privacy.
• Metallized: As the name suggests, metallized window tint is made up of metal micro-particles. It can efficiently keep out sunlight and is extremely scratch-resistant.
• Hybrid: Hybrid window film contains both dyes and metal particles.
• Carbon: This type of tint is made from carbon fiber particles that won’t fade. Carbon film drastically reduces heat from the sun, keeping your cabin cool.
• Ceramic: Ceramic window film is the highest quality tint you can get. It blocks out 99.9% of UV rays, looks great, and is extremely durable.

Now that you know more about the different kinds of window tints, let’s dive into how to tint your windows in three easy steps.

1. Get Your Windows Ready

Before you install any type of tint, it’s essential to prep your windows. Use an ammonia-free window cleaning solution. DON’T use a commercial glass cleaner. Use a rubber squeegee to efficiently get all of the crud off your windows. For best results, clean your window two to three times in a dust-free area. Lower your window to efficiently clean the top of the glass.

Remember to clean the window trim, gaskets, seals, and rubber holdings to prevent the transfer of grime and dirt. Even the tiniest speck of dust will ruin your results.

After washing, thoroughly dry the glass with a clean microfiber cloth.

2. Cut Your Film 

The next step in the process is cutting your film. If this is your first time installing window tints, we strongly recommend buying a kit that contains pre-cut pieces. While you can cut your own, this skill takes time to master. Cutting your film accounts for about 80% of your efforts. If it’s not cut properly, the tint won’t look great.

If you do decide to go the self-cut route, do not use your windows as a template. Use a piece of cardboard instead. This way, you’ll get the right shape without wasting any tint.

After creating a template, lay both it and the tint on a firm, flat surface. Use a clean, sharp Exacta knife to carefully cut along the edges, matching the film up to the exact shape of your template.  

Once you cut your film, double-check it by placing it over the inside of your window. Once you’re satisfied, ask a buddy to hold the film in place so you can do any necessary trimming to ensure the film is a perfect fit. Cut the corners to avoid creating any gaps between the film and rubber seals.

3. Apply the Film 

After you’ve cut your tint, use a spray bottle or rubber squeegee to apply a generous amount of application solution to the inside of your window. Next, pull the protective layer off of the tint. Spray the exposed adhesive with the solution.

With the help of your friend, carefully apply the adhesive side of the tint over your window, starting at the bottom edge. Work upwards to avoid crinkles and bubbling. Avoid pressing too hard because the adhesive is extremely sensitive to pressure.

Once the film is in place, use the squeegee to press the tint to the glass. Use even strokes and start from the middle, working your way out. You should be wetting the outside surface of the tint to create lubrication for your squeegee. Dilute a couple of drops of chemical-free dish-washing liquid in a pint of water and use that solution on the film.

Continue wetting the film while also working any air bubbles and left-over application solution out from underneath the tint. As you push the bubbles out, gradually apply more pressure to the squeegee. Once all of the air bubbles and application liquid are gone, the film will firmly bond to your windows.

After all of your windows have been tinted, allow them to dry for at least 48 hours before rolling the windows up or down, or washing your car.

Quality Window Tinting in Golden, Colorado

If you want to skip the process of tinting your own windows, call the window tinting experts at Red Rocks Tint. We’ll expertly install window film in your car and make it look great!

To learn more, contact us today by calling 303-261-7384.