Due to global warming, temperature and UV radiation are increasing daily. You must install residential window tints to protect yourself and your family. However, just installing window tint is only part of the solution; you must maintain it properly. Otherwise, you may need to buy and install it again and again.
Maintaining tint is challenging for beginners, and tons of small tricks and mistakes can significantly change the results. Let’s learn all the tips and tricks with related information to help you maintain your window tint in the best way possible.
Benefits of Tinting
Before you maintain your window tint, you should first know what benefits it provides. Tinting of your residential window comes with a variety of benefits; some key benefits are:
UV Ray Protection
Window tints can block almost 99% of harmful UV rays, protecting your skin from potential damage and the risk of skin cancer. Moreover, your interior items will not fade and deteriorate quickly as the UV rays can’t reach them.
Glare Reduction
Tinted windows can reduce glare, improving visibility both inside and outside your home. You can also watch TV, see computer screens, or just relax without straining your eyes, as tints block the sun’s glare.
Cost Savings
Tinting your window can help you save money in the long term in a variety of ways. For example, tinted windows help regulate temperature by reducing heat transfer. They also lower heating and cooling costs, so your energy bills will be comparatively lower. Also, the reduced wear and tear on furniture and the health benefits of the tinted window help reduce potential costs.
Privacy, Comfort, and Protection
As it can be harder for people to see what is inside when the window is tinted, tinted windows add a level of privacy and security to your house. Residents also will feel more comfortable in a house with tinted windows because of the improved temperature regulation, glare reduction, and a sense of privacy.
Window tint also provides protection by making the glass hard to break or holding the glass parts together in case of an accident or breakage, where the shattered and flying glass can cause injury or damage.
Improved Appearance
You can make the look of your house more aesthetic by adding modern, sleek-looking window tints. You can also customize the tints to match the design, color scheme, and style of your property, giving your home a more uniform appearance.
Tint Maintenance Tips
Maintaining residential window tint is crucial to keep it in good condition so that it provides its benefits for as long as possible. Here are some tips and tricks on how you can maintain your window tint:
Initial Care
If you have recently installed window tint or are going to install it soon, remember not to touch or clean the tint for at least 30 days after installation. This avoidance is also part of maintenance as initial care to let the tint cure properly and gradually dissipate bubbles and haziness.
Regular Cleaning
Once the curing period ends, you need to clean the tinted windows regularly to prevent grime and dust buildup and maintain their transparency and appearance.
Mild Cleaners
To clean the tint, you need appropriate cleaners and tools; otherwise, it can be damaged. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners and use mild dish soap or commercial tint cleaners. Also, use a soft cloth or rubber squeegee instead of abrasive towels.
Cleaning Techniques
Proper cleaning techniques are also essential to minimize the risk of damage to the tint. We usually use circular motion to clean something, but you’ll need straight strokes to clean the tinted windows. Also, don’t push pressure when cleaning or touching the tint.
Proper Drying
After you clean the tinted windows, it is crucial to remove any excess water near the edges of the film. If there are still water droplets left, it can cause seepage beneath the film, and eventually, the tint will fall off. So, always ensure proper dying after every cleanup.
Avoid Scratches
You need to ensure the tinted window won’t get scratched by sharp objects or pets; otherwise, the scratches can seriously damage the tint, and you’ll need to replace it. You can add additional window coverings to protect the tint from extreme weather conditions.
Damage Inspection
Regularly inspect every tinted window for damage, such as peeling, discoloration, or bubbling. If you can detect the issues early, the damage can be minimized without a hitch.
Control Humidity
You should use dehumidifiers or other ways to control the humidity levels indoors. High humidity can affect the tint adhesive, and the tint can fall off.
Proper Ventilation
Ensuring adequate ventilation is a must for tinted windows to protect them from heat. Excess heat can build up hot bubbles in the film’s adhesive, so ventilation is required to dissipate that hot air.
Seasonal Maintenance
In winter, do not use ice scrapers on tinted windows; instead, use a soft brush to remove frosts. Also, during peak summertime, use shades or blinds to reduce sun strain on window tints.
Solve Common Problems
If you see common issues like minor scratches, bubbles, or discoloration, use first-aid solutions like tint-safe polish to smooth out bubbles, etc.
Warranty Coverage
Another part of maintaining window tints is paying attention to warranty coverage. Some tints come with lifetime coverage, while others range to several years. Make sure to evaluate the warranty and take action accordingly.
Professional Inspection
You can have a professional inspect the tint once or twice a year to ensure it performs optimally. You should also call the professionals whenever you see signs of significant issues.
Conclusion
Maintaining your window tint properly is necessary to prevent frequent replacement and avoid dangerous situations where the tint isn’t working correctly. You need to know about it so you can take preventive measures. Even if you’re new to this, always follow the professional’s instructions correctly, and maintaining the tint will be super easy.
