Window Tinting Colorado Springs CO provides numerous long-lasting benefits, including heat reduction, UV protection, and improved privacy. However, even high-quality window tints don’t last forever.
Visible scratches or surface damage are a clear indication that your tint needs to be replaced. These flaws can not only blemish the appearance of your windows, but can also impair their protective qualities.
1. Fading or Discoloration
Fading or discoloration is a clear sign that your tint is past its useful lifespan. Window tints are designed to block UV rays that can fade furniture, flooring, and artwork inside your vehicle, but prolonged exposure to sunlight can also cause the window film itself to discolor or fade, often taking on a purplish hue. While this may not impact your privacy, it can detract from the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle and reduce its effectiveness as a UV blocking solution.
While the functional lifespan of window tint is typically defined as how long it can effectively block heat, UV rays, and glare while remaining intact and unfaded, it is important to note that this lifespan can vary significantly depending on environmental conditions and upkeep. In fact, most tints will begin to deteriorate over time even when they have been properly installed and maintained.
Visible signs of deterioration include bubbling or peeling, visible discoloration or fading, and reduced performance, such as increased heat rejection or glare protection. These signs are more than aesthetic eyesores; they point to diminished functionality and a need for professional replacement with fresh, quality film.
Before installing new window tint, you must first remove the old film and prepare the window surface for installation. Using a non-abrasive cloth and a soapy water solution, scrub the window to loosen the adhesive holding the old tint in place. Be careful to apply a generous amount of solution and allow it to sit for a few minutes before using a razor blade or scraper to gently remove the old tint. Once the adhesive is removed, you can use a cloth or razor blade to carefully peel off the remaining tin and ensure a clean, smooth window surface before attempting to install the new tint.
2. Bubbles or Peeling
Window tint provides many benefits, including UV protection, heat rejection, and privacy. However, the film can degrade due to long-term exposure or environmental stressors. Even high-quality tints can wear down over time, so it is important to watch for signs that your tint needs replacing.
If you notice air bubbles or peeling, it is likely time to get a replacement installed. These flaws not only look unattractive but also reduce the effectiveness of the tint in blocking glare and harmful UV rays. In addition, they can obstruct visibility and create safety risks for the driver and passengers.
Bubbles and peeling are common issues caused by poor installation, age, and environmental stresses. When this happens, it is best to opt for a professional installation to ensure quality results that last. Choosing the right film is also essential for long-term performance, as lower-quality materials often fade quickly or don’t provide optimal UV protection.
Depending on your climate, vehicle usage, and the type of tint you choose, your window tint may need to be replaced every 3 to 5 years. For the most durable options, consider ceramic or carbon films. These films can be more expensive upfront, but they offer superior durability, color stability, and resistance to fading and other degradation over time.
Window tint is a great way to increase the comfort and safety of your home or office while adding style. However, some homeowners mistakenly think that darker tints will drastically alter the appearance of their interior or distort light behavior. In reality, today’s advanced tints offer a wide range of colors and shades that allow for natural sunlight without compromising aesthetics or comfort. Additionally, professional installation is an essential factor in achieving a flawless, smudge-free finish that is compliant with local tint laws.
3. Reduced Visibility or Clarity
Window tint plays a crucial role in protecting your vehicle and its interior from the sun’s harsh rays. It also offers benefits like heat reduction, improved glare protection, and privacy enhancement. However, even high-quality tints are not permanent and will eventually need to be replaced.
The lifespan of window tint depends on the type and quality of film, environmental factors, and upkeep. Generally speaking, standard dyed tints can last up to five years while carbon and ceramic films can last ten or more. With proper care, the lifespan of a tint can be greatly extended.
One of the most obvious signs that your window tint is fading or worn is the appearance of unattractive air bubbles or peeling edges. Those blemishes not only affect the aesthetics of your car but they can interfere with visibility while driving. Additionally, bubbling or peeling can signal that the adhesive has weakened. Once this happens, your tint will not be able to achieve its performance goals and will need to be replaced.
Another sign that it is time to replace your tint is if it begins to lose its ability to reduce the sun’s damaging UV rays. When your window tint is faded or old, it can allow up to 50% more UV rays into your vehicle. This can damage your skin and interior while putting an unnecessary strain on your air conditioning and increasing fuel consumption.
If your window tint isn’t offering the level of heat rejection or glare protection it once did, you may be at risk for costly fines. Most regions have strict laws regarding how dark a vehicle’s windows can be. If your current window tint is significantly darker than what is allowed, it’s likely time to consider replacement.
4. Increased Heat Inside Your Vehicle
If you notice that areas of your vehicle are hotter than normal, or that you are squinting to see while driving, it could be a sign that the window tint is failing to protect the interior and block UV rays. This happens when the film degrades or loses its UV-filtering properties, and can be corrected by replacing the old tint with new professional-grade tint that can help reduce glare and solar heat while protecting your car’s interior.
If your vehicle’s tint is fading or discolored, it’s important to have it replaced as soon as possible to avoid the build-up of dirt and pollutants that can damage and weaken the adhesives. This can also lead to a decreased ability to keep your car cool and protected from harmful UV rays.
One of the best times to have your windows tinted is in the fall. Milder temperatures and lower humidity help the tint adhere properly, and can speed up the curing process. This makes it easy to spot any problems and ensure your tint is in good condition before cold weather sets in.
When you have your car’s windows tinted, you can expect it to last for up to 10 years. To make the most of your investment, it is a good idea to replace the tint periodically. In addition to making your car more comfortable, this will also help you save on fuel costs and reduce the amount of wear and tear on your leather seats and dashboard. It is also a great way to make sure your vehicle meets state and provincial legal requirements for windshield tinting, so you can avoid fines if caught by law enforcement.
5. Surface Damage or Abrasions
The window tint on your vehicle does more than simply enhance its look; it also provides protection against harmful UV rays, reduces heat, and improves visibility. However, even the best-quality window tint has a lifespan and will eventually begin to degrade. Recognizing the signs that your tint is no longer in peak condition will allow you to replace it with a fresh, professional-grade film that delivers all of its intended benefits.
One of the most noticeable indications that your tint is fading or discoloring is an unsightly purple or bronze hue. This type of tint discoloration occurs over time, particularly in sunny climates like ours, as the dye in the window tint breaks down and loses its ability to effectively block UV rays. In addition, fading or discoloration may indicate that your tint was not properly installed or was low-quality.
Another clear sign that it is time to replace your old window tint is peeling edges. This typically happens as the adhesive that binds the tint to the window begins to fail. When left untreated, peeling edges can leave areas of your window exposed, compromise the safety of your passengers, and diminish the effectiveness of your tint in blocking UV rays and reducing heat.
When the time comes to replace your old window tint, the process is relatively straightforward. First, apply a solution of soapy water and ammonia to the surface of your window to soften the adhesive holding the old film in place. Then, using a razor blade or scraper, carefully peel away the old tint from a corner and work your way across the window until it is fully removed. Be careful not to use too much force, as excessive pressure could damage the window surface underneath or cause you to cut yourself.