Window tinting in a car or truck can reduce glare, keep temperatures down, and protect interior finishes. Tint is generally pretty durable, but you may need to adjust your cleaning habits slightly to extend its lifespan. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your tinted windows. 

Do:

Avoid direct sunlight.

Sunlight causes water and cleaning products to dry too quickly, which can make windows look streaky right after cleaning. Additionally, UV rays fade window tint over time, so the more you can keep your car in the shade, the longer your tint will last. Park in a garage or carport whenever possible, and wash your windows under shade as well. 

Use mild cleaners.

Harsh chemicals like ammonia can fade window tint, and abrasive scrubbers can scratch the material. Instead, use warm water with just a bit of mild dish detergent, or a cleaning product formulated specifically for tinted windows. Apply cleaner with a soft microfiber cloth, rinse, and pat dry with another cloth. 

Don’t:

Clean right after installation.

Tint adheres to windows with a strong adhesive solution, but it needs about 72 hours to dry completely. Avoid washing it or taking your car out in the rain during this time. Excess moisture can cause bubbling under the surface. Once the adhesive has fully cured, wash and dry windows as you normally would. 

Go over the edges.

Window tint is made of a thin film, and that material does have edges around the perimeter of each window. If you scrub these areas too hard, the tint may start to peel away. This is one of the most sensitive areas for tinted windows, so use caution and avoid even touching corners unless it’s necessary to remove dirt or debris.

If you’re interested in window tinting, contact Line-X of Troy in Ohio. The company carries a full line of car and truck accessories, and provides services like window tinting and rust protection to truly customize vehicles. Visit the website for a full selection, or call (937) 335-0560 to request a quote.