How to Tint Windows Like a Pro

Tinting the windows on your home improves privacy and helps with energy costs.

Tinted windows are common for offices and storefronts, but are quickly becoming commonplace for homes as well. There are many benefits of tinted windows in the home. They enhance privacy and help with energy savings by reducing the amount of sunlight that enters the home, with the average window tint film providing a UV rejection rate of more than 99 percent (see Reference 1). Tinting windows in the home is similar to hanging wallpaper, and you can tint windows like a pro by following a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• Glass cleaner
• Rag or paper towel
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Window tint film

Instructions

1. Clean the windows thoroughly. Window tint film adheres better on a clean surface, free of dirt and debris. You can use a basic window or glass cleaning product and a rag or paper towel to clean the windows.

2. Measure the window. It is best to work one window at a time, as the windows may be different sizes.

3. Cut a section of window tint film according to your measurements, adding an additional one inch on all sides to ensure an adequate amount of film to coat the entire window space.

4. Pull off the protective liner from the window tint film to expose the adhesive coating. Most films use water activated adhesives, so you may need to apply a wetting solution to the window and adhesive coating before applying.

5. Apply the film to the window, ensuring it goes on smoothly without any air bubbles or imperfections.

6. Trim any excess film showing around the sides of the window.

7. Blot over the film with a rag or paper towel to remove any excess water.

8. Leave the film to cure on the window. This typically takes anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• To help ensure you cut the film to the proper size, you may want to cut out a piece of cardboard to your measurements and use this to trace an outline on the film first.

• Some stores offer window tinting kits, saving you from having to purchase the materials separately.

• To maintain tinted windows after they have cured, most window cleaning solutions are safe to use. You can make a mixture of equal amounts of vinegar and water or soap and water as an alternative cleaning solution.

• Even with proper maintenance, tinted windows typically need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. When purchasing your window tint, inquire about what sort of warranty is offered.

References

• My Efficient Planet: Advantages Of Using Home Window Tinting Film