In the same way that parts of your vehicle will tire and wear over time, window tints also eventually need to be replaced. The longevity of your tints may depend on different factors such as film quality, too much sunlight, or even the type of window cleaner you always use.
Generally speaking, you get what you pay for: cheap dyed tint film can last shorter than more expensive and higher quality ones, which can last for 5 years or more. Hybrid films can last even longer, up to a decade.
But, how can you know it’s time time to replace your window tints? Here are the telltale signs:
Stepping up to more advanced options like carbon or ceramic tint films can mean an even longer life for the tint, and many are covered by a lifetime warranty which means if any defects in the product or installation are noticed, replacement of the tint won’t come out of your pocket.
Sign 1: Bubbles and Air Bulges
One of earliest signs that call for tint replacement are the presence of bulges and air bubbles in between the film and the glass window. This can be caused by a number of factors including the quality of the film or how badly it was installed.
More than just being an eyesore, the forming of bubbles will eventually cause more problems in the long run and should be addressed as soon as you can.
Sign 2: Fading and Purpling
Another ugly sign that you should replace your window tint is its change in colour, particularly when it starts to fade from dark grey to purple. Usually, tints begin to fade because of too much exposure to direct sunlight.
All tint films eventually fade over time but those higher quality films loose their original colour longer.
Sign 3: Peeling
In some cases, when the window tint starts to peel in a corner, it’s time to replace it. This happens when the adhesive used starts to lose its grip to the windows.
Removing the tint through pulling the peeling parts is not as easy as it seems. It might be tempting to remove it yourself but letting the professionals do it will same you time and money.
Sign 4: Damaged Car Interiors
One of the main benefits of window tinting is protecting your dashboard and in seat covers. One sign that it is time to replace your tints is when you notice some heat damage to your car’s interior. It maybe a change in colour or some breakage.
If your window tint is old, your furniture may be getting bleached by all those UVA and UVB rays.
The worst part is that the change is likely so gradual that you won’t notice right away. Deciding to replace your tints is a wiser choice than spending more on interior repairs or changing of seat covers and upholstery.
Sign 5: The temperature is high despite the full AC blast
If you find yourself full blasting the air conditioning units to the fullest, yet it is still warm inside your vehicle, it might have to do something with your window tints. Another benefit of tinting is keeping the interior of the vehicle at a desirable temperature. If it is otherwise, then maybe it’s time to check and have your car re-tinted.
