While we’re aware that many installers have perfected their own methods to install window film, the following information is a popular way professionals install car window film on most vehicles.

 

 

  • Step 1: The tinting environment. Bring the car to be tinted into a dust- and wind-free space, usually a large interior bay of a building.
  • Step 2: Prepping the windows. Clean the windows of the car to be tinted—inside and out—using a soap and water solution, sponge, and squeegee to remove all dirt and debris.
  • Step 3: Measuring & cutting. Measure the car’s windows and cut pieces of film from a master roll to fit those measurements. Lay out the film on the exterior surface of the car window to cut it down more precisely. Heat shrink the film using a heat gun, to contour the film so that it curves to the glass. Rest assured a proper, professional heat gun designed for this process emits heat at a low setting and will not harm the vehicle.
  • Step 4: The Peel Board. After the film is cut down to match the pattern of the window, remove the film and place it on a glass “peel board” to cut the finer details of the window’s shape. This is where the release liner is usually removed.
  • Step 5: Installation. Once the film has been cut down to the correct size and shape, spray a soap and water solution onto the window as well as the film itself. Then remove the film’s release liner and apply the film to the interior of the window. Use a squeegee to remove any excess solution that may be under the film and activate the adhesive that secures the film to the window.
  • Step 6: Final Inspection. Take a final look at your work, examining the window from both the inside and the outside to spot any imperfections that need to be fixed.
  • Step 7: Dry Time. Once the tint job is complete, do NOT roll down the vehicle’s windows for three days. Depending on weather conditions and the film type, it can take up to three weeks for the film to fully dry and cure. During this time, small water bubbles and/or a hazy appearance may appear. This is normal and will disappear as the film dries.