Removing Window Tinting
At some point, you thought that tinting your car windows would be a great idea but lately the tinted windows have become a nuisance. The tint reduces your visibility, especially while driving at night and it may even be illegal in your state. You need to find an inexpensive way to remove the tint but you donât want to ruin the windows by doing it yourself. What can you do? Â
Fortunately, there are several proven methods of removing window tinting and theyâre all relatively inexpensive. All you need are a few simple materials, some free time and lots of elbow grease. Always keep one window open as you work to avoid inhaling any fumes and if youâre using a steamer or a blow dryer, take precautions to avoid burning yourself. Â
STEAMING METHOD:
This is the easiest and cleanest method for removing window tinting. Heat is applied to the inside of the window using a hand held steamer or a blow dryer. This is done to melt the glue that holds the tinting sheet in place. As the glue melts, you can gently pull the sheet to remove it. This method must be carried out very slowly because pulling the sheet too hard can cause it to break and will result in glue being left on the window.Â
SCRAPE & WASH METHOD:Â
This method involves cutting and lifting the tinting sheet using a razor blade. Once the tinting sheet is peeled off, the glue that remains on the window can be scrubbed off with soapy water. Extra care should be taken with this method because itâs possible to scratch the windows or damage the back window defroster lines.Â
AMMONIA & HEAT METHOD:Â
This method requires some preparation. You will need to park your car in a sunny area and you will also need to cover the interior of the car with a plastic tarp or garbage bags to protect the upholstery. In this method, you spray the inside of the window with undiluted ammonia and then you cover it with a plastic bag; the bag should sit smoothly and evenly against the window. You then spray the outside of the window with soapy water and cover it with a plastic bag as well. You let the car sit out in the sun for a while and then lift one edge of the window tinting using a razor blade or your fingernail. The tinting sheet should come off cleanly in large pieces. You can then gently scrub the window and wipe it dry.Â
Although effective, this is the messiest method and it may pose a health risk due to the fumes that are produced. As previously mentioned, always keep a window open as you work to avoid inhaling toxic fumes.Â
For a detailed step by step guide with photos outlining each method, please visit: http://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Window-TintÂ
For windows that require motion, such as the driverâs window, the tinting may extend downwards past the visible area. In this case, it will be necessary to remove the window by dismantling the door panel and then reinstalling it once the tinting has been removed. This is more for aesthetics than functionality and should be carried out very carefully. Check your car manual for information or search the web for instructions on how to dismantle a door panel.Â
Whichever method you choose, make sure you gather all of your supplies and spend some time on preparation. Most importantly, work slowly and gently to avoid damaging your windows. Remember that as tedious as it may be, taking the time to remove the window tinting from your car windows will ultimately save you hundreds of dollars and will help you avoid a possible fine.
