How to get a car tint

Car glass tinting has become increasingly popular. Whether you're considering investing in tints to improve security, comfort or looks, there are several ways to go about getting your car or van windows modified. The simplest option is to order the glass tint when buying a new car. For most of us, however, this is beyond our means, so here are the other methods available.

What benefits does tinting offer?

Window tinting is marketed in several ways, all of which have merit to some degree. Claims for improved glass security and car protection are the most common. Other benefits include a reduction in UV sunlight damage to your car's interior, keeping it cooler during the summer months. Black windows also help to hide the contents of your vehicle from would-be thieves.The effect is achieved by applying a protective film to the windows (with the exception, for safety reasons, of the car windscreen). In the after-market world, there are two basic ways to obtain a tint, use a professional service or do it yourself.

The professional service

By far the easiest, but more expensive method of getting your windows tinted is to have someone do it for you. As experts in the field, they will take less time to complete the work, than you would yourself, but will use much the same methods and materials. They will carefully remove the windows, clean and degrease them thoroughly. A dilute soapy solution is applied to the inside, on which an adhesive glass tinting film is placed. By using a soft plastic blade, all the solution and air bubbles are forced from between the tinted security film and the glass. Once dry, the glass is re-fitted to the car. It sounds simple, but the removal process is difficult and, as with all glass, breakage can occur. The true benefit of going to a professional is that they will carry insurance to cover this type of incident, which you won't have if you do the work yourself.

The DIY route

If you fancy saving some cash, then you can always do it yourself. Many cars are catered for, with pre-cut window tint kits. These are widely available for car accessory stores and, if you have a popular vehicle, you should be able to find one to suit. For those with less common cars, tint film can be bought on a roll, which you can then cut to size and trim yourself. The application method is the same as that used by the professional fitter, but great care should be taken as any damage will come out of your pocket. Given time and patience, there is no reason why you shouldn't produce an equally superb result.