Ultraviolet (UV) rays are electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. These rays are known to be harmful and are linked to several types of skin diseases, such as skin cancer. But exposure to UV rays can be inevitable, even inside your vehicle.
While the radiation levels are typically lower inside a car than in direct sunlight, UV rays can still penetrate the glass. One way to safeguard yourself against these rays is through window tinting.
However, these thin protective films must be properly maintained to ensure they will last long. Below are some tips on how to take care of auto window tints:
Give Time for the Tints to Cure
If you have just had your windows tinted, giving it time to cure is necessary for it to last long. Leave your windows rolled up for at least two days after the car tinting Fullerton CA procedure. This ensures the films fully adhere to the glass, preventing it from peeling.
Newly tinted windows will come hazy and have little water pockets, but these are normal. While the urge to clean and fix these may be strong, it is best to leave them be and allow them to fully cure first. The haze and bubbles will naturally disappear after a few days.
Purchase the Right Cleaning Products
Cleaning a tinted window is not at all complicated. But before starting this task, you must first be equipped with the proper cleaning materials. Tinted windows should not be cleaned with just paper towels or any cleaning solutions. You must avoid abrasive tools and ammonia-based cleaners, as these can damage the window tints.
Here are some of the tint-friendly cleaners and tools you can use:
| CLEANING SOLUTION | CLEANING TOOLS |
| Ammonia-free cleaning solution Mild dish soap and water Baby shampoo Automotive glass cleaner Vinegar and water solution |
Clean microfiber cloths Rubber squeegee Soft bristle brush Lint-free paper towels Foam applicator Sponge |
Dry the Films Completely
After cleaning, ensure the films are entirely dried – including the edges. Any water left on the film can cause damage, such as bubbles, streaks, and peeling.
Neglecting proper drying will not only result in the tint’s lifespan shortening but may also cause you trouble in driving. Residual moisture may diminish visibility, potentially endangering your life.
Proper drying ensures optimal transparency and longevity of the film’s appearance and functionality.
Avoid Scratches
Ensure that you and your passengers are cautious when entering or exiting the car, especially when removing seatbelts. These valuable safety features are notorious for scratching window tints.
You must also be careful with loading and unloading items with sharp edges. Stickers and decals should also be avoided as these can leave adhesive residue when removed, attracting dirt and dust, and eventually damaging the tint’s surface.
Park Under Shelter
Parking your tinted windows under shelter helps preserve your window film’s longevity and effectiveness. Sheltered parking protects your film from prolonged exposure to harsh elements like UV rays, rain, and hail. These weather conditions can degrade the tint over time, causing it to fade, bubble or peel.
Steps to Clean Tinted Windows
Besides knowing how to properly maintain your tinted windows, it is also important to learn how to clean them thoroughly. A step-by-step process on how to clean your tinted windows can help you make the most of your investment.
- Park your car in the shade: Cleaning your tinted windows in direct sunlight may cause the cleaner to dry out fast, resulting in unwanted streaks. But you must also avoid parking your car under a tree, as falling leaves or sap may undo your hard work.
- Open the car’s door: This step is more for health purposes. Cleaning solutions for tinted windows contain chemicals that may accumulate inside your vehicle if the doors are closed. These chemicals may be a health hazard when inhaled.
- Clean in vertical motion: Start from the top to bottom to ensure you will not miss any areas.
- Never forget to clean the tint film edges: Leaving the edges may cause the cleaning solution to go under the tint film, resulting in unwanted bubbles and peeling. Use a damp microfiber cloth to dry the edges.
- Dry using a clean microfiber cloth: When cleaning, make sure you have two microfiber cloths. One is for cleaning, while the other is for drying. Doing this will help ensure that no white spots will form in your tints.
- Double-check: Walk around your car and look for missed spots and streaks. You may also go inside your vehicle to ensure all parts are thoroughly cleaned.
When in Doubt, Seek Help from Professionals
While maintaining tinted windows is not inherently difficult, it may still come with complications that only a professional can help you with. When you are unsure of what to do, it is best to seek help from an expert in window tinting Anaheim, like OC Tintz.
With our experience and knowledge of window tinting, OC Tintz has been one of California’s most trusted experts. Combining our unrivaled quality control setup and premium tint products, we assure you only the best service.
Besides automotive tinting, OC Tintz also offers window film products for commercial and residential spaces.
Avail our services by visiting our website at https://octintz.com/.
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