There can be various reasons for installing car window tints like privacy, UV protection, glare reduction, improved appeal, etc. However, you have to take care of your vehicle’s tint films to avail these benefits, otherwise, the tints may peel or discolor very soon than you would want. The first few days after car window tinting are extremely important because the tint films are still curing and are at their most vulnerable. So, here is how to care for them to ensure that they last long.
Maintaining Tinted Car Windows During The First Few Weeks
If there is one word we can use to describe the first 7 days after tint installation, it’s patience. Let’s know why.
Don’t Roll Down The Windows For 2-4 Days
After tint film installation, the installer will advise you of a few things and one of them is to keep the windows as they are and don’t roll them down for 2-4 days for the adhesive to cure properly. The time frame will depend on the climate and weather. In many cases, it’s better to wait for a week before rolling down windows for the first time with the tints.
If this instruction is not followed, the tints will most likely peel straight away after rolling down the window or after some time. And in most cases, you will have no other option than to replace the tints again.
Avoid Touching The Tints During The First Week
When you see freshly installed tints, you may want to touch them, but every installer advises against it. Moreover, there can be bubbles or air pockets on the tints in the first week. Never try to smooth them out by hand or by using any tool. This will only interfere with the regular curing process of the tints and can lead to unexpected results, such as permanent bubbles and peeling.
In most cases, the post-installation bubbles and air pockets on tints fade on their own as the tints cure. However, if they don’t disappear in 14 days, avoid removing them on your own and consult the installer.
Don’t Mind Hazy Or Streaky Tints For 2 Weeks
During the first week, the tints may look moist or cloudy. This is because the adhesive is still in the curing process. Once the adhesive cures, the tints become clear on their own without any intervention required. Therefore, don’t try to clean the windows or remove cloudiness from the tints.
Be More Cautious In Colder Or Wet Weather
If the weather is cold or wet, be cautious because the tints will take more time to cure. Driving the car during rain or snow is considered fine during the first 7 days after tint installation, but we don’t suggest it. Water could seep into the spaces between the tint films and the window glass, and weaken the adhesive bond between them. This will create a risk of the tints peeling.
So, if it’s raining or snowing, it’s better to leave the car in the garage or in the shade during the first week. It will be bothersome because you would need other means to commute, but it will ensure that the tints last you for years after they properly cure.
However, the longevity of tints depends on their quality as well. Ceramic tints generally last the longest.
Wait Longer For Tints To Cure If You Park Indoors
Firstly, parking indoors is better for tints in the first 7 days because there is a lower risk of moisture or dust affecting the curing process. However, the curing process does take longer when the vehicle is parked indoors. And if everything goes well, it’s worth the wait because the tints cure properly without any dust, debris, or moisture there to ruin them. This is also true for paint protection films Springfield as well.
Don’t Clean The Windows For 7 Days Or More
As stated earlier, the adhesive is still wet so cleaning windows, even just from the outside, is the fastest way to lose the expensive tints you just installed. So, be patient.
Be Careful When Parking Under The Sun
During the first 7 days of tint installation, many people recommend parking the car in the sun because it speeds up the drying or curing process of the tints. This is true. However, you have to be careful when parking your vehicle outside when the tints are still very vulnerable.
Firstly, choose a location that is not too dusty. If it’s a busy road with high traffic, avoid parking the car anywhere near that area.
Moreover, keep a check on the weather. Sunny at one point in time doesn’t warrant that it will remain sunny the entire day. If there is a rain forecast, avoid parking the car outside even if it’s sunny.
Clean Your Car Windows Only After 7 days Or More, Carefully
Once the wait period is over, you can clean your car and the windows. However, be careful with cleaning. You can’t use any cleaner or tool to clean tinted car windows because they could weaken the adhesive of the tint film or discolor the tints. Plus, abrasive tools could scratch the tints.
Things to avoid when cleaning tinted windows:
- Avoid ammonia-based cleaners
- Don’t use abrasive cloths or sponges
- Avoid using bleach, alcohol, or any other harsh solvents if you’re going the DIY route.
- Don’t put force or pressure on the windows. Clean gently.
- Avoid waxing or polishing the tinted windows.
Best practices for cleaning tinted car windows:
- Use gentle glass cleaners with neutral pH.
- For a DIY cleaner, mix equal parts water and vinegar for cleaning the windows.
- Use a microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the tints.
- Other tools you can use are: soft sponges, applicator pads, rubber squeegees, car glass cleaning brush, etc.
- Clean the vehicle in the shade.
Don’t Attach Anything On The Windows For The First Few Weeks
During the first few weeks, the tint film may not be completely glued to the glass, so attaching anything on the windows is not suggested. Avoid attaching these things:
- Stickers or decals
- Suction cup holders
- Window visors
- External accessories
Don’t Scrape Ice Or Snow Off The Windows
That’s a difficult one. You’re advised against scraping snow off the windows when the tints are new (first few weeks). Scraping snow can scratch the tints, which will allow snow and moisture in. This will lead to peeling in some time. Another thing to remember is that tints will take longer to cure in the winter, so there’s that.
When To Consult The Installer?
If you see peeling edges, fading, cracking, or distortion, consult the installer. Even though bubbles and cloudiness is fine in the first 2 weeks, if it persists, contact the installer.
Conclusion
The first week after car window tint installation is the most crucial, so you have to take care of your car for the tints to last for a long time. But care is only one aspect to ensure longevity of tints, because you have to choose high-quality tints and a reliable window tint shop Springfield as well. If these check these boxes, the tints can last for years without peeling or discoloring.
