Having your vehicle tinted can oftentimes be frustrating when unsightly bubbles pop up on the surface. Not only does bubbles make your vehicle look distasteful, it is also a sign of poor quality auto window tinting.
You then wonder, how can I remove those bubbles on my vehicle? While there is a straightforward method that you can do, it is always better to prevent the bubbles from developing in the first place which can help you save more money. The importance of prevention and the benefits it can bring is your top priority.
The Truth About Bubbling
Bubbles appear right after auto window tinting regardless of the quality of installation. One thing to note however is there are two types of bubbles, one is normal and the other is harmful. So if you noticed bubbles on your windows right after window tinting, do not worry and have it inspected. If it is a normal one, you are not obliged to have it removed because it will eventually disappear once the film has cured. This is the reason why your local auto tinting shop assures you that bubbles are normal. On the contrary, other types of bubbling such as trapped dirt, soap and air are harmful and if these pop out right after tinting your vehicle, have them redo the installation. Also, other factors such as low quality window tint films, using ammonia based cleaners and accidentally piercing the film all contributes to bubbling.
Types of Bubbling
Normal Bubbles or Blisters
Blisters are basically trapped water underneath the window tint. This occurs when the tint film is installed on the wet face of the window. If you happen to notice one, don’t worry because it will naturally disappear when the tint film cures, meaning that all the water has evaporated.
Soap and Dirt Bubbles
When these type of bubbles appear, it indicates that there are problems with its installation. Basically, they are trapped dirt and soap solution underneath the window tint. What makes them harmful is that they stay there forever and will eventually damage the film. Unless you remove the film and remove the bubbles, they will stay there for a long time unlike blisters where they disappear after a few days. Another cause for this type of bubbling is using tint films with weak adhesion. Films with weak adhesion will have portions of its film bulging which allots space for air pockets to enter. These bubbles are easily recognizable as they are usually large and hazy in color unlike blisters where they are small and opaque.
Preventive Measures
The best course of action against bubbling, or any other problems imaginable, is preventing them from developing in the first place. Here are some tips to consider in preventing bubbling:
- Have it installed by a professional: Professional tint installers know every detail of installation and preparation to prevent bubbling. You should opt for auto tinting shop that gives warranties and is reputable to be guaranteed a high quality service. As long as we cannot get assurance from them, the feeling of uncertainty will make us anxious and be left behind not knowing what to do. This is especially true if the shop does not offer after service customer care.
- Choose high quality window tint films: Higher quality window tint films are less likely to bubble due to better adhesion and material integrity.
- Proper cleaning: Never use ammonia based cleaners in cleaning your windows. Doing so will corrode the film and cause premature peel off, causing bubbling. The correct way of cleaning is using a solution of soap and water on a microfiber cloth.
Removing Bubbles on your Window Tint
If bubbles appear weeks after auto window tinting, chances are there are lapses with its installation. What you should do is revisit the auto tinting shop and have them redo the films. They should have at least a policy or warranty on bubbling and the remedial work should cost you nothing.
But if you want to remove bubbles for yourself, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: Heat your window. Tint films are easier to work with when the temperature is high because it can make the adhesive more pliable. You can let the car sit outside for a couple of hours but if the weather is not warm, you can heat the window tint films using hair driers.
Step 2: Moisten the window. Applying cold water to the warm window tint films will loosen the adhesive which allow the bubbles to move freely underneath the films.
Step 3: Remove all bubbles. There are two ways that you can do to achieve this, one is poking each bubble with a straight pin or you can use a stiff card to push out the bubbles onto the edges. Be careful when pinching the film, otherwise, you can damage the window itself.
Step 4: Clean the window. Clean the window tint film with a microfiber cloth and check for any damages.
This was written by Steven Hopkinson owner /operator of Flying Window Tinting.
`We have been in business in Orlando same location
for 20 years
We serve the following locations
- orlando
- winter park
- alafaya
- azalea park
We also provide the following service
- Window tinting
- tint removal
- headlight cleaning
- vinyl graphics
Contact us for free quotes on your vehicle
