Window tinting has become popular nowadays for a variety of reasons. While some people attempt to improve the visual appeal of their vehicle, others simply want privacy. As easy as auto window tinting might seem, tinting the rear window involves multiple stages and require skills for installation. Let’s take a look at how you can tint the rear window of a vehicle the professional way.
Preparation
The first step in tinting a rear car window is preparation. This is a critical step as it determines the longevity of the tints. Window preparation for tints is all about ensuring thorough cleaning so that the tints can properly stick to the windows.
Amongst the external factors that can significantly reduce the lifespan of the tints, dust, and dirt tend to be the biggest. If the windows are not prepared or cleaned properly, the tints instead of contacting the glass will contact the dust and dirt. As a result, do not be surprised if you are looking for a replacement after a few weeks.
Furthermore, the preparation should be done using special chemicals that remove contaminants not even visible. The preparation should only take place in an enclosed space where the chances of dust and dirt affecting the process are relatively less.
Once you have prepared things, it is time to measure the window and note its maximum width and length. Then, cut the film 1-2 inches more than the required noted sizes. Next, use a small amount of talcum powder and place it on the window. Rub a dry cloth over the entire window.
Then, wet a cloth and ring it out ensuring it is not dripping. Determine the side of the film that has backing liner and place film so the backing liner side so it faces you. Run a squeegee over the film to remove excess liquid or powder etc. Cut around the obstacles until the film fits nicely into the glass.
Heat Shrinking
The heat-shrinking step involves the use of a heat gun, not a hair dryer. Adjust the heat gun to the highest setting and begin from the lower section. Keep the heat gun at a safe distance approximately 25 cm away from the glass. Plus, do not stay in the same place for long as it will burn the film. Using a consistent motion, move the heat gun from left to right and right to left multiple times.
When you repeat the same move, keep the heat gun closer to the film that before. At this point, the film will begin to crinkle and follow the design of the rear window. Do not be worried about the look of the film as it is not the final look. You will sort that out soon once you are putting in the final touches.
Next, lift the bottom of the film and spray the underside generously with a solution using your hands to smooth the film. Once that is done, place the film on the window again and use a squeegee to remove the excess solution. Make sure to use a bit of pressure to not crease the film.
Once the film is flat to the window, there may be some fingers on the film. It is a normal situation and you should not panic. Simply use the heat gun and a hard card squeegee to push out the fingers. Keep repeating this until all fingers are gone.
Trimming
Now that the heat-shrinking process is done, it gets down to trimming the film. For darker tint films, you will need to turn on the boot light for seeing through the film easily for the application process. If you don’t, the installation will suffer. Following the dimensions of the window, cut the film and it should fit nicely to the window.
Then, remove the film and thoroughly clean the outside of the glass. But you need to clean the inside of the glass as well. So, you need to open the boot for this and clean the inside part of the glass with a pad. Make sure the pad you are using does not damage the heating elements.
You need a lint free cloth to squeegee the inside part of the window. The purpose is to clean and dry the glass without a trace of unnecessary particles on the glass. Take care of the edges because they are harder to dry. Ensure the window is completely clean. Then, spray the inside of the window using a mist of slip situation.
Now, move to the outside part of the window. Remove the backing liner from the window. Then, on the inside part of the window, place the film with the adhesive side facing the glass. Once the film is in place, spray the slip solution on the film. After this, rub a squeegee on the film horizontally. Now, squeegee vertically. Continue removing all the excess water from the film using a squeegee.
Hopefully, at this point, the film should be sitting flat on the surface of the window. If any fingers may appear, use the heat gun and squeegee to remove them. You may need to repeat this step more than once.
On a side note, if think this process was easy, you should also look into the process of a paint protection film Springfield installation.
Different Types Of Window Tints
Before you can tint the rear window of your vehicle, you will need to decide the type of tint. If you were not aware, there are multiple types of window tints with varying features. Although dyed, metalized and carbon window tints have been around for a while, ceramic window tints tend to be the most common.
Ceramic window tints are not only the most advanced type but also expensive. Regardless of whether you need privacy or protect your vehicle against UV rays, this film serves all purposes. On top of that, ceramic window tints can last a lifetime if they are installed the right way.
Should I Choose A Professional For Tinting Windows?
Although the steps mentioned previously will help you tint the rear window yourself at home there is always a risk if you do not have prior experience and possess the skills required to get the job done successfully. The lifespan of a window tint solely depends on tint installation.
If you are not able to prepare the windows properly before installation, the film will soon develop bubbles. Soon, you will find yourself replacing the tint again. This is why experts suggest opting for a professional so that the final look is spotless.
Professional services are going to cost you but make the film last years to come. While searching for the best installer, you may find many that will do it for a very low price. As much as you might want to choose them, go for the expensive installer.
This way, you will be offered a guarantee, covering your expensive tints without you having to pay for them in case something goes wrong. And as they offer a guarantee, they ensure proper tint installation.
Conclusion
Tinting the rear window of a vehicle can be a complicated task since the dimensions can vary. Regardless, you should keep the tips mentioned above in mind and choose the proper tools when installing tints. If it still doesn’t work for you, go to window tint shops Springfield.
