Window Tint Removal

Window tint, either for home or car, wears off and/or deteriorates over a period of time. If you notice any of the signs, like bubbling of the tint or purpling of the film, then you can consider changing the tint. Appearance of bubbles in the film indicates that the adhesive is not working anymore, while fading of the tint to purple color is due to failure of the non-metallic dyes. In both the cases, the window tint looks very unsightly and requires replacement. Window tint removal should be done carefully, otherwise there are chances of scratching the window glass and damaging the defroster (in cars). Read more on removing window film.

You can find various products in the market, which are specifically designed and formulated for removing window tints. Or else, you can hire professionals for carrying out the project. In both the options, you need to spend at least $100 or more. A better and less expensive alternative is to remove the car window tint on your own. The main hurdle for window tint removal is that most films are made up of two or more layers. Hence, even if you succeed in peeling the first layer, the underlying layer sticks to the glass, which in turn is more problematic to remove.

How to Remove Car Window Tint

Removing window tint in not as difficult as you think. If you proceed gently, you can succeed in removing the tint at one go, rather than taking it out in strips. Similar to any other car improvement project, proper planning and correct requirements are essential for successful window tint removal. Let's take a look at the required supplies and steps for car window tint removal.

Required Materials
You will be using concentrated ammonia solution for removing car window tint. So, it is advisable to wear safety gear, like hand gloves and face mask, so as to protect yourself from getting exposed to ammonia fumes. For window tint removal, you should have the following materials:

• Concentrated ammonia solution
• Glass cleaner
• Glue or adhesive remover
• Soapy water (use household detergent solution)
• Black garbage bags (large size)
• Fine steel wool
• New razor blade or scrapper blade
• Absorbent paper towels

Steps for Window Tint Removal
Select a bright sunny day for car window tint removal, so that you can ensure quick treatment effect and easy removal of the tint. Also, park the car in such a way that the window (which tint is to be removed) faces the sun. Following are the steps that should be followed for removing car window tint:

Step # 1
First of all, cut the black trash bag and place it over the window (from the outside) that you are planning to remove. Also, make sure that the plastic sheet (trash bag) covers the window fully. Spray the soapy solution by using a hair sprayer and smoothen the plastic sheet from the center to the outside.

Step # 2
The plastic sheet absorbs sunlight and heats up the window tint, thus allowing easy removal of the film. If you are removing the rear window tint, do not forget to protect the inner side of the window by using a waterproof tarp. Then, spray the undiluted ammonia solution over the window film.

Step # 3
Before the ammonia solution dries out, cover the window with another plastic sheet (cut trash bag). As the plastic sheet heats up the window tint, the ammonia helps in loosening the glue or the adhesion. Leave it like this for about 30 minutes. You can use a fan in order to speed up the process.

Step # 4
The next step for car window tint removal is to peel the film from one corner. Before that, moisten the tint by spraying ammonia solution. You can make use of the razor blade to lift up the tint from the corner. Following this, peel off the window tint gently to remove it in one piece.

Step # 5
After removal of the car window tint, clean off the residual adhesives (if any) by using ammonia solution and the steel wool. Use the absorbent paper towel to pat it dry. Remove the plastic sheets and/or trash bag sheets from the window. Finally, clean the window glass with the glass cleaner. Read more on guide for car care.

Follow the above steps to remove tint from the side windows. Thus, with a little effort, you can remove car window tint without hiring a professional. In case you want to replace the car window tint, then purchase the new film from a company, which provides free service for car window tint removal.