Car fanatics are always looking for ways to improve the visual appeal of their vehicles. One of the ways is to install window tints that not only add to the appeal but also protect the window glass from external factors. Some people also prefer auto glass tinting for privacy and security concerns. But auto tint films go bad after some time. It happens due to many reasons. The installation method plays a crucial role in determining how long the tints will last. So, here is why your tint films go bad along with the signs that it’s time to replace the tints.

What Are The Reasons For Auto Window Tint Replacement?

Poor Quality

Window tints are available in varying qualities, types, prices. Not everyone is able to afford expensive ceramic tints and wants something that could do the job for a while.

But the thing is that the price of the tints is directly based on the quality. Higher quality tints tend to be on the expensive side and are covered with warranties and guarantees while budget-friendly tints are more on the average quality.

Even if you invest in the right tools, and chemicals and utilize proper skills to clean the tints, they will still need replacement quite soon. This is because the dye or pigments in the film are not made to last that long.

Poor Installation

Window tints regardless of the type require proper installation techniques to last some time. Majority of the vehicle owners are not aware of the fact that the lifespan of the films is directly related to the way the tints are installed. Depending on the vehicle, it could take hours to install tints.

The reason is that the experts will first thoroughly clean the windows and ensure there is no dirt and dust. This requires spending a considerable amount of time on each window to ensure the surface is as clean as possible for tints to properly settle.

This is why, if you plan on installing the tints yourself, make sure you are well-equipped with the skills and tools to ensure a proper long-lasting job.

Age

Auto window tints experience wear and tear and need replacement after some time. How long they last depend on factors like their quality, installation, and maintenance. Generally, standard car window tints last for 5 years. Tints of higher quality last for longer.

Ignoring Maintenance And Care

Even high-quality tints can peel off or show bubbles or other problems if the owner doesn’t take care of the tints. As the sun is the main cause of tint films fading, you should always consider parking your vehicle in shade.

Moreover, washing vehicles with window tints is done a bit differently. Avoid using abrasive tools and cleaners. These cleaners can shorten the lifespan of your car’s tint films and they will peel off sooner than expected. You should be extra careful if you also have a paint protection film Springfield installed and only use cleaners that don’t damage the tints and the PPF.

What Are The Signs Your Auto Window Tints Need Replacement?

You should be aware of the signs that indicate that your window tints need to be replaced.

Bubbling Or Peeling

One of the tell-tale signs of window tints gone bad is bubbling or peeling. It can take place due to multiple reasons with poor installation technique being the most common reason. The installation process of window tints takes place in multiple stages.

The first and most important step is thoroughly cleaning the windows to get rid of dirt, dust, and other accumulations. If the surface happens to be dirty, the tints will not bond to the surface of the glass and will soon begin to bubble or peel.

While the appearance of small bubbles is normal after washing the car, if you observe multiple bubbles that are becoming bigger, you will need to replace the film. Plus, if you observe that the film is tinting from corners or other areas, you will not be able to make it last long as dirt and dust will stick to the surface of the film and make it impossible to settle.

Fading Or Discoloration

Fading or discoloration is another important factor you need to keep in mind when it comes to window tints needing replacement. If you observe that your window tints have started to fade or discolor over time, it may be time for a replacement. The reason is that constant exposure to UV rays over time causes the film to fade or discolor. The UV rays break down the pigments or dye in the tint.

In addition to that, cheaper or lower quality tints are more prone to fading and discoloration as they are made for budget-friendly purposes rather than lasting a long period of time.

If the window tints are not installed properly, it could also cause the tints to fade as UV rays might penetrate the tint and cause it to fade. Moreover, using the wrong types of chemicals, tools, and cleaning or installation techniques can also cause the tint to fade or discolor.

The good news is that you can easily avoid such factors by doing some research and investing in the right chemicals and techniques. But you should know that if a film happens to be of poor quality, it won’t make any difference.

Scratches

If your window tint is fading, discoloring, or showing any other signs of replacement, it could mean that it is not as durable as it was when it was freshly installed. The reason is that scratches or damage could create weak joints in the film making it a lot more susceptible to peeling or tearing.

At the same time, using abrasive cleaning materials like rough sponges, steel wool or inappropriate cleaning techniques might also result in scratches. This is why it is important to consult an expert and work on proper cleaning and drying skills.

While working on the vehicle, you might have sharp edges or zips on your clothing that could cause scratches as well. If the window tint is not installed properly, it could be an even bigger risk due to uneven surfaces or other issues.

Furthermore, extreme weather conditions like heavy snowfall or hail could also scratch and damage the window tints if not properly installed. You can temporarily fix minor scratches by waxing the car windows, but the only permanent solution is tint replacement.

Difficulty Seeing

If you notice that your tints have made it harder to drive at night, they could be a safety hazard and will be needing replacement. Although window tints come in different levels of darkness to match the needs and preferences of customers, a film making it hard to see the objects outside is another thing.

For instance, the film may not be able to reflect the sunlight causing extreme difficulty while driving as it directly contacts your eyes. Plus, if the window has damage or scratches, it can make it a lot more difficult to see through the tint.

Conclusion

Window tints are a great addition to your vehicle as long as your local rules allow them. But, when it comes to installation and replacement, you have to keep in mind there are many factors involved. This is why you need to consider the information mentioned above and choose a reliable car window tinting shop Springfield for proper tint installation.