After installing window films, maintaining them is the next priority. Maintaining your tinted windows and making sure it will last for as long as it could can be an easy, yet detailed task. For you to get the full potential of your tinted car windows, you should firstly invest in a high quality tint film instead of going for the cheaper, yet lower quality ones. After all, spending a little bit more today for the quality will let you end up spending less in the long run.
Cleaning newly-tinted windows is a simple process as long as you know what materials and cleaners to avoid. You have to be extra careful on cleaning your tinted windows if you want your tint to last a long time, still looking good as new. There are only three rules on how to maintain your tinted car windows:
Make sure they’ve been fully cured
Wait for at least 2 to 3 days before touching it, rolling it down, or even cleaning it. This is to make sure that the films are fully adhered on the glass and will not peel off when you roll it down. There may be a strong urge to clean it may be strong for it will be cloudy, hazy, and you may see little water pockets forming in the tint, but you should leave it for as long as it takes (ideally 2-3 days) before you get rid of it. Let it do its magic and clean it after a few days.
Before cleaning it, inspect every part of the windows and make sure the tints are fully dry. You do not want to risk pulling the tint loose by splashing water all over it. Once your vehicle has been tinted the windows will have been lightly wiped down, it is probably the best time to give it some proper cleaning
Never use ammonia-based window cleaners
The main difference of cleaning tinted windows and those that are not is, tinted windows are more delicate, given that the film installed are thin and can be easily removed if you’re not careful. You’ll need to use gentler cleaning products on your tinting to preserve it, and under no circumstances should you use a cleaner with ammonia in it.
If you are having a hard time looking for ammonia-free window cleaners, why not try to look around your kitchen and make your own from scratch? You can use vinegar solutions, lemon juice, or even liquid baby soap.
Combine some water, alcohol, and lemon/vinegar/liquid soap in an empty spray bottle.
Don’t use abrasives
Never use abrasive window cleaners—from chemicals to rough paper towels. It is best that you use microfiber cloth that are very soft to avoid scratching and ruining your tints—be it newly installed or not. One other trick is to use two separate cloths: one for wiping away dirt and one is for drying.
At the same time, never rub your windows. Instead, clean it using wiping motions gently to prevent peeling and scratching as well.
Keep in mind that all things have a life span and needs to be replaced over time. While the average average lifespan of window film ranges from about 10 to 15 years, make sure you get the most benefits out of it by maintaining it properly. Whenever you clean your car windows, keep it gentle and stay away from ammonia-based cleaners. Do these tricks and enjoy the benefits of your tinted vehicle.
SOURCES:
http://monkeysee.com/tint-car-windows-final-cleaning-and-maintenance/
https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/construction/projects/tint-home-windows5.htm
https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-clean-tinted-windows-by-jason-unrau
