If you have decided to tint the windows of your vehicle, you will learn quickly that the process can be expensive. Even the least expensive, professional window tinting services can cost a few hundred dollars and may leave you searching for another alternative. There are numerous benefits to tinting your windows including safety, value, and comfort. However, it is still a major investment. So it is important to understand all of your options before deciding what will work best for you when tinting your vehicle’s windows.
Much like the do it yourself options available for homeowners, there are cheaper do it yourself options for tinting your car windows. However, consider whether tinting your own windows is the best option in the long run. First, he process is time-consuming, and if you make a mistake, it will cost you more in the long run to correct it. The, the process includes fitting a film over the existing window. This may seem simple enough, but each car model has a uniquely shaped and sized window. So it can be difficult for someone who is inexperienced to cut the film properly.
Steve Rodriguez, owner of Steve’s Professional Glass Tinting and Auto Security in Upland, California, has several years of experience with tinting. He points out, “(The film) is difficult to form. We heat it. It takes a lot of experience and practice to lay film without damage.” He also points out that “Door panels may need to be removed because the film goes all the way to the edge.” While you may not have to remove the doors of the vehicle, if you install the tint films without removing the doors, there may be a gap between the end of the film and the end of the window. Initially, this may not be a problem for you. However, when it comes time to trade in the vehicle for a new one a poor tinting job can lower its value.
Creating the Seal
Cutting the film properly is not the only issue that do it yourself tinters may find difficult. When laying the film, dust can get caught between the layer of film and glass. This will cause the film to crease and not lay smoothly. One main reason for tinting windows is increasing the aesthetic value of the car. So, if the tint films are crumpled, bumpy, or crooked, it will detract from the look of your car instead of adding to it.
The other problem at-home tint jobs often have is working around the car’s radio antennae. Most modern cars have the antennae located on the back window and the tint film can interfere with the reception or the antennae itself. There is also a chance you may damage the rear defrost if you are installing tint yourself. Finally, each state has its own legal issues when it comes to the location and darkness of the tint. When working with a professional company like Steve’s Glass Tinting, they will leave the ultimate decision to the client, but they can provide information to clients considering their tinting options.
Correcting Your Mistakes
If you have attempted tinting yourself and created a bigger mess than you were expecting, get the mistake taken care of as soon as possible. There is no need to panic if you have made a tinting mistake, but it is important to find a qualified company to remove the tint. When searching for a professional who can correct the problem, verify that he has experience removing tint. Scraping the film from the back window can damage the rear defrost, causing your defroster to malfunction. Those who have botched their own tint job can visit a professional tinting facility like Steve’s in Upland, California. Using a special tool called a steamer, Rodriguez and his team can remove the damaged tint films and properly install new tint films.
Tinting your windows is a great way to increase the value, safety, and comfort of your vehicle. If you are looking for ways to tint your car in the most economical way possible, don’t risk doing it yourself. Contact Steve’s Professional Glass Tinting and Auto Security for an affordable, professional tint job.
