Installing car window tinting is a popular method to enhance the appearance of a vehicle, increase privacy, and reduce the amount of heat and glare that enters the car. A common question from people who are thinking about getting window tint for their car is regarding how long it will last. So, what is the lifespan of window tint?
In this article, from the expert team at Elite Auto Care in Elkhart, IN, we will look more closely at some of the elements which can affect how long window tint for cars will last and share some steps that you can take to increase the lifespan of your window tint.
What Is Window Tint Made From?
There are several different types of window tint available, each with its own unique features and benefits. The exact composition of the tint film can vary depending on the manufacturer and the type of tint, but most window tints are made from a combination of polyester and metalized coatings. Carbon and ceramic based window tints have become very popular with car owners, as they are particularly effective at reducing glare and decreasing the temperature inside the vehicle.
How Long Does Car Window Tint Last?
Like most things in life, window tint does not last forever. There are a variety of factors which will affect the lifespan of your vehicle’s window tint, including:
Quality Of The Window Tint
The lifespan of the window tint film can be significantly influenced by its quality. The durability and longevity of higher-quality tints is often greater than that of tints created using inferior materials. Like most things in life, you get what you pay for!
Installation Process
The quality of the installation will also have an effect on how long your car window tint lasts. The tint must be installed correctly in order for it to stick to the glass effectively and not peel or bubble over time. It’s important to only work with fully trained window tint technicians, if you want the maximum lifespan from your new car window tint.
Exposure To The Sun
Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause tint to fade or degrade over time. The amount of exposure to the sun and the intensity of the UV rays can affect how quickly the tint fades.
Climate and Temperature
Extreme temperatures and climate conditions can also affect the longevity of window tint. Tint installed in areas with hot and humid climates may be more prone to fading or discoloration than tint installed in cooler, drier climates.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The lifespan of window tint can be increased with regular cleaning and maintenance. We recommend using specialized cleaner for window tint for best results, as the tint may eventually peel or scratch if you clean it with harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
What Are The Best Ways To Maintain Car Window Tint?
Regular and effective maintenance is important to prolong the life of car window tint. Here are some tips to help maintain the appearance and performance of your window tint:
Firstly, we recommend waiting at least a week after installation before cleaning the tint. It’s crucial to provide enough time for the tint glue to cure and adhere to the window. Cleaning the tint too soon after installation, will cause it to peel or bubble, reducing its durability.
Always use a gentle cleaner safe for tinted windows when it’s time to clean the tint. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could harm the color, such as ammonia-based cleansers. In addition, use a soft, non-abrasive cloth to clean the tint. Avoid using paper towels or other rough materials that can scratch or damage the tint.
Long-term parking in the sun might cause the tint on your automobile to deteriorate or change color. If at all feasible, park your car in a shaded area or shield the sun from it with a car cover.
Follow these basic maintenance guidelines to get the maximum lifespan from your new car window tint!
Estimating The Lifespan Of Car Window Tint
In conclusion, there are a number of variables that might affect how long a car window tint lasts, including the tint’s quality, how it was installed, the environment and weather, and how well it was maintained.
Low-quality tints might only last for a few years, whereas high-quality tints that are professionally fitted and well-maintained might last for up to ten years or more. If you’re thinking about tinting your car’s windows, it’s crucial to pick a premium tint and have a technician install it to make sure it lasts as long as possible.
Top Quality Window Tint Services in Elkhart, IN
Elite Auto Care in Elkhart, Indiana, is a leading provider of car care services with decades of experience in window tint installation. Our highly qualified staff have installed thousands of car window tints for our valued customers! Call us at +1 574-830-5828 to schedule an appointment, or visit us at 23159 US-33, Elkhart, IN 46517, United States. Book your appointment today!
