CAR TINTING
CAR TINTING
What Is Car Tinting?
It is basically a transparent film applied over the surface of the paintwork of a car that acts as a protective coating. It shields the paint from scratches by rock chips, bird droppings, bug litter and fading. All of these are commonly observed in untreated cars and are pretty damaging. However, It does not protect against heavy damage like parking scrapes and major dents.
What to Expect
Window tint is a scratch-resistant thin coating, ordinarily manufactured from a polyester base, that adheres to the interior of car windows. The idea of tinting is not only to make it difficult to view inside a car providing privacy but also to make it more appealing. It also makes the surface of the car scratch proof.
Car Tinting Materials
Initially, window tint films were "dye-based". The problem with this was they did not provide good control of the heat within the interiors of a car which led to a quick rise of temperature. They also did not perform well under the heat of the sun, generating bubbles and peeling off of the car window easily.
In the 1990s metallic window films were used which was a mixture of metallic dye with the film. They had higher resistance to shattering and were able to resist the heat up to 50%.
The latest advancement in car tinting is ceramic window tint. These are extremely durable and perform amazingly well with heat. They are incredible with heat rejection and do not interfere with electronics or cellular signals. Along with that, these films provide UVA and UVB rejection with a lesser tint to the coating, hence allowing more light and protection from UV rays. These tints are consistently exceeding all expectations and gaining popularity.
Reasons To Get Your Car Tinted
Reduces Glare
A good quality tint coat limits glare from sources of intense light making it easier and safer to drive, especially during the summer season. It also shields you from windshield glare and protects your eyes from eye fatigue due to the direct sun or bright light sources during the night-time.
Provides Privacy and Security
Tinting guarantees you privacy as onlookers from outside cannot see inside your car. This also provides security.
Glass Breakage Safety
In case of any accident leading to breakage of the glass due to high-intensity impact, the adhesive at the reverse-side of the tint film holds the glass together keeping it from shattering into pieces.
Protection From Sun Rays
It is important to choose the right tint film that can lessen the heat from the sun and block its harmful UV rays.
Increased Resale Value
Car Tinting is much more than just aesthetic value, as it has several additional advantages for you and your ride. You need to be aware of the regulations in your area before getting your car windows tinted. Always choose good quality and trusted brands of tint films such as 3M, DUB and Xpel to get assured quality and durability.
Only the Best for Your Vehicle
Types of Car Tinting
Dyed Window Tinting
Dyed window tint is the cheapest amongst all the types of tint films available. It can shield you from UV rays and hide the interiors of your vehicle in daylight. The disadvantage of a dyed tint is that it fades over time and needs replacing quickly. Apart from this, dyed tints produce the darkest shade among all the window tints available in the market. They are also an affordable option for those on a tight budget.
Metalized Window Tinting
Unlike dyed tint films, metalized tint films last longer and do not fade soon. Metalized window films are also distinguished by a more robust shatter- and scratch-resistance. Its efficiency in blocking heat and its capacity to decrease glare are added benefits. Metalized tints also reduce heat by reflecting it. But being metallic they can cause damage to phones, radio, Bluetooth and other devices that receive signals to operate.
Hybrid Window Tinting
As the name suggests, these are a combination of dyed and metalized window tint films. They are manufactured to fuse the positive characters of both while eliminating the negative ones. Titanium grey dye is not too dark nor too reflective hence it provides the required amount of opacity to allow privacy while obstructing an adequate amount of UV rays.
Carbon Window Tinting
Carbon window tinting is superior amongst all the tint films. These not only block harmful UV rays but infrared rays as well. So with carbon tinting sun rays are blocked from entering the interiors of your car at the same time it prevents heating up of the interiors as well. These tint films do not fade over time and are more durable than the dyed ones. Additionally, it imparts a matte finish to the window improving the aesthetics of the car.
Crystalline Window Tint
Many car owners do not like darkened windows caused by tinting. Some people need protection from sun rays and heat, at the same time wish to see a clear view of the way. If you require these criteria then a crystalline window tint may be the best for you. Crystalline window tints block a higher amount of heat than the darker tints even with a considerably thinner film. They do not cause any interference with cellular and GPS signals.
Ceramic Window Tint
These are pretty high-end window tints and they are worth every penny. These tints block more than 50% of the sun’s heat at the same time and do not affect the window’s visibility. Ceramic window tints claim to block 99% of UV rays and do not interfere with cellular or radio signals. Additionally, these tints are manufactured from a non-conductor ceramic material therefore lesser costs incurred from air-conditioning.
How Car Tinting Works
Clean & Clean Some More
The first step is of paramount importance so you must leave no stone unturned when it comes to cleaning the glass. Thoroughly clean the surface of the window which will be tinted using soap and water or a specified glass cleaner because any dirt or dust remaining on your window could make the tint look bumpy. Do this several times. It is preferable to do your tinting in a closed space like a garage to prevent dirt and dust from settling on your windows during the process.
Measure Twice Cut Once
Before buying your tint measure all the surfaces that will be tinted with a measuring tape, making sure you have sufficient amount for your front and rear windows. You may even allow an extra 2 inches than your measurements for each window.
Cut Carefully
Cut the tint film into the measured sizes for each window. To make sure you have cut excess film material place the sheets over each window. The excess material can be cut off easily while installing the window tint.
Install It
Spray the application solution on the surface of the glass. Then remove the adhesive backing of the tint film. Check if the sticky part is facing the window. You should not place the whole film on the window as it may cause bubbling. Attach the sticky portion starting from the bottom of the window and smoothening it out while moving upward. When you are done you can cut off the excess on the edges with a razor.
Smoothen it Out
Smooth out any bubbles or creases using your palm. Fill a spray bottle with hot water and spray over the glass to make it easy for you to smoothen it out. You can trim off any excess film and wipe away any water.
Benefits of Car Tinting
Protection from UV Rays
The harmful UV rays can be pretty damaging if you’re stuck in your car during the daytime. Some window tints block these UV rays, protecting you while driving.
Privacy
Normally, the windscreen of any vehicle is not supposed to have a dark tint legally, but the rear window of a vehicle can. This enables some privacy and may stop miscreants when they can’t see what is inside of a car.
Glare
Vehicle tinting can reduce night and daytime glare.
Cooler
A tint can keep the car cooler with less UV and sunlight entering the vehicle and preventing it from heating up.
Good Looks
Many people see tinting as a ‘must-have’ trend for their car. It is completely subjective of course and for them, the car seems under-dressed unless it has that tinted glaze.
Car Tinting Maintenance
Be Patient With Window Tint Bubbles
Whoever lived through the eighties knows about the dreaded air bubbles that sometimes get entrapped in the cheap window films, ruining it forever. However, the bubbles in the window tint that you notice after installation are more likely a result of moisture, and should normally evaporate within a few days, as the tint film cures. As for how long bubbles stay in window tint varies depending on the climate, humidity, etc.
Skip The Car Wash
So you are wondering when you can wash the car after tinting. The tint film is installed on the inner surface of the window of your car, so it wouldn’t matter if you drive through dirt or mud. But, washing the windows later may add sufficient moisture to interfere with the curing process; so you should hold off until the tint has cured completely.
Let The Tint Dry
You must be patient until the tint film dries completely. Meanwhile, you can do certain things to speed up the process of curing like, park your car in direct sunlight on clear days.
Turn Up The Music And Drive
Once enough time has passed after installation, you may proceed with the routine use of your car, and be rest assured that your tinted window film will remain in good shape. However, we recommend leaving them rolled up, cranking up the music, and taking a ride in your newly tinted car without further delay. Because the cars next to you will not be able to see you singing along anyway.
Final Words?
If you wish to level up your style and comfort choose car tinting with us. We assure the highest quality of our products with decades of expertise. As said, window tinting is aesthetic and has functional benefits as well, adding value to your vehicle. To know more about vehicle tinting contact us and ask more about our services without hesitation.
TESTIMONIALS
If you value good service and quality product then Top Geer Wraps is your best choice. I’ve used Brooks for a number of projects, including protecting our cars using 3M Paint Protection. My next project will be to wrap my car to advertise my real estate business. I couldn’t be happier with the service I’ve received and would highly recommend Brooks and Top Geer Wraps.
Dustin Graham
Excellent work. Answers any questions one may have. Willing to accommodate your schedule.
I would highly recommend his work.
Frankie Lourenco
Top Geer Wraps has wrapped my Lamborghini many times! I love the fact that every spring I have a fresh new look for my car thanks to Top Geer. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my car! Brooks De Geer does the best work in the GTA hands down! I’ll be bringing him my new Hurican in the spring… Very excited!
Rob Boyko
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Window Tints Require Special Care?
You are recommended to wait 4 weeks for the film to completely dry and cure. Once this period has passed you can use normal cleaning products to clean the film using a towel. However, avoid any abrasive products as they could damage the surface.
Can Window Films Be Removed?
Installation times differ depending on the scope of the work being done and this shall be discussed with the client prior to vehicle inspection.
Is Tinting Car Windows Legal?
Yes, it is absolutely legal, as long as the tint film is not darker than the legally imposed limits. The range of our tint films spans from transparent to the darkest amount of tints legally allowed so that you can choose according to your convenience. Our team of experts will be more than glad to walk you through the available options in tint shades and suits your style, personality and lifestyle.
What Do The Different Levels Of Film Mean?
The various film percentages depict light transmission, which is the amount of light that can pass through the film. Logically, the lower is this percentage, lesser light can pass hence darker the film.
Is The Window Tint Applied On The Outside Of The Window?
No. window film is applied on the inner side of the window glass normally as this provides maximum durability. The window tint film is hand-cut measured from the outside of the glass, and then it is installed on the inside of the window.
If My Window Tint Film Is Damaged, Can It Be Fixed?
Although damaged window film cannot be fully repaired, the damaged portion can be removed and the glass can be tinted again.
How Long Would It Take To Tint My Vehicle?
The amount of time taken to tint a vehicle varies, according to the type of vehicle. However, a car can take about 2- 4 hours to get tinted completely. For full-sized trucks, it can typically take between an hour to an hour and a half. The set of front doors generally would take merely 30-45 minutes. Sometimes when the old film needs to be removed, that may take more time.
How Does Window Film Improve Rear-Round Comfort?
Window film creates a consistent climate control by removing any “cold wall” and “hot wall” problems hence create a more comfortable environment.
What Causes Vehicle Tinting To Turn Purple And Get Bubbles?
Sun’s UV radiation may damage a car’s interiors. Additionally, an excessive heat build-up inside the vehicle may cause bubbles on the window tint which are a result of the failure of the film's adhesive. Hence you should always purchase a trusted brand’s window tint material. We have a variety of tint films that have a high-temperature adhesive system and protection from 99% of UV rays allowing them to provide a guarantee backed by the manufacturer against fading and bubbling.
Would You Travel To My Home To Tint My Car?
No. As of now, we do not provide that service. Window tinting should be done inside a controlled environment to ensure that no dirt, dust or debris can get under the film.
Will The Window Tint Prevent The Glass On My Car From Breaking?
Although the film cannot prevent the glass breakage, in the event of any accidental impact, it can hold the broken pieces of glass together from shattering into thousand pieces and flying about.
What Do You Mean By The Curing Process Of Film?
The curing process involves the initial phase where water and adhesive combine to bond the tint film to the window surface.
How Long Is The Curing Process?
Typically the curing process takes about 30 days. However, in the cold or rainy climate, or the lack of exposure to the sun, this process may extend and it can take longer to cure completely.
What Are The Scratches Or Streaks On My Window Tint?
Don’t worry those aren’t any defects, they are actually caused by a vehicle’s weather stripping. A fuzzy, felt-type material lines the weather stripping around your windows, which functions as a trap for tiny particles of dirt while rolling the windows up/down. Some vehicles have both sides lined, while many have only the exterior side lined with this felt material. When it is present only on the exterior side it makes the interior more prone to trapping of dirt and debris. So while the windows are rolled up or down the dirt, or sometimes the hard plastic of the stripping, may cause the film to scratch.
Why Should I Choose One Kind Of Vehicle Window Tinting Over The Other?
If you want quality worth your money, a lifetime warranty, and you are willing to pay a little extra, then you could go with metalized film. Otherwise, you can choose a regular tint.
Can The Car Window Tint Be Scratched?
Though a scratch-resistant coating is present in the film, it can get scratched with rings, keys, watches, etc. Such scratches are a result of user neglect hence are not covered under warranty.
Do You Cut The Tint Film On The Vehicle Itself?
We use the latest computer technology to customize the window film to seamlessly fit the model and make of your vehicle. This ensures a perfect cut, consistently eliminating any risk of damage to the vehicle's glass or paint.
