Should You Attempt DIY-ing Your Car Tints?

car windowNow that you have decided that car tinting is for you and your benefit, the next thing to consider is its application. Consumers usually have two options for tinting their cars windows: Do it themselves with a DIY window-tinting kit or hire a professional.

With all the available DIY Car Tinting kits offered in the market today, it is tempting to just tint your car on your own instead of leaving the job to professionals. Although a DIY window tint is generally less costly, it definitely pays dividends to invest in professional installation.

Here are some considerations you have to think about when you plan on just tinting your own vehicle yourself:

Cut it yourself

Most DIY tinting kits sold in the market today—both online and in stores, are most often than not generic sized and shaped films. This means that you will be needing to cut them according to your window’s size and shape as precise and accurate as possible. It also involves having the right tools when cutting, and knowing the right techniques.

Restarting is not an option

Since the chances of ruining it are high, the first trial would most probably be a disaster. So, you decided to try again. You thought that it would be easier, but removing window film is much more difficult than applying it, due in part to the sticky adhesive used to apply it to the auto glass.

Once window tinting film has been applied to a window, it cannot be taken off and simply returned to the store. Starting from scratch would probably require you to buy a new kit. Most probably, when you decide to DIY your car tinting, it is your first time to do it. The room for error is bigger because more likely than not, you’re just winging it. For a first-timer, window film in general is hard to work with.

No bubbles and air pockets allowed

Businesses that do car tints for a living do it perfectly crediting the number of times they have done it, the knowledge of different techniques on how to apply it, and the hours of training they have undergone to perfect the job. An experienced professional will use a higher grade film and ensure that it’s applied without creases, crinkles, air bubbles or debris.

Consider the tinting law

Did you even know there’s a tinting law? The government of United Kingdom is specific when it comes to laws concerning car tinting. Just to be safe, it would be best to have your car professionally tinted because companies who do this for a living know the do’s and don’ts, with considerations of the regulations. Most professional window tinting companies make it their business to say up to date on window tint regulations.

car window tint

More work than cutting and pasting

Many people don’t know it but when it comes to car tinting, cleaning is a key component. Before the big tinting day, clean your window both inside and outside. Use a solution of warm water and gentle soap. A few drops of dishwashing soap or baby soap will work fine. Spray the glass and then scrape the water off with a fresh razor blade, taking care not to scratch the glass.

At the same time, more work has to be done after the tint installation. Car owners may find that there is some moisture remaining between the film and the glass after installation which causes a hazy, streaky, blotchy appearance. It is just normal as it usually takes several days for the adhesive/film to completely cure or completely dry. The remaining moisture will evaporate through the film; depending on the type of film, this process may take a couple of days, or even a couple of months.

Many people think that they can save some money when they opt to tint their car windows on their own, but how hard it is really? The truth is it is not easy. Window tinting is a tedious and meticulous and painstaking that requires a lot of time, care, and attention. There is little margin for error and getting it wrong just means spending more.

A lot of stores sell tinting DIY kits, and if you are a little adventurous and a fast learner, maybe you can give it a go. Just keep in mind to consider DIY tips online and take your time.

Although DIY car tinting is an option for everyone, it is not really advisable. The chances of ruining it, spending more and having a difficult time is higher, compared to the comfort and convenience of just leaving it to the professionals.

 

SOURCES: