Window Tinting - General Discussion
An Open Forum for the Window Tinting Industry.
53,963 topics in this forum
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Always a good thread, pics are a plus.
Last reply by Dano, -
- 3 followers
- 7 replies
- 92 views
Never had this happen to me a customer wants me to give them a price on two vehicle with them providing the tint what is your guys opinion on that
Last reply by LeadfootCJ7, -
Looking at getting solar window film installed on some of the windows in my house. 3M Prestige PR-70 seems to have a good mix of clarity, light transmission, and heat rejection, but can only be bought/installed by authorized sellers. Anybody have suggestions as the best alternative that can be purchased and installed DIY? For what it's worth, I have double-pane low-E windows so I want to make sure I get something that's not going to cause the windows or seals to break from the extra heat absorption https://100001.onl/ Thanks.
Last reply by Tintguy1980, -
- 2 followers
- 28 replies
- 1.1k views
Although it is my first post here, I have been reading these for awhile now and I have come looking for some advice / opinions before I really pull the trigger on what I feel needs to be done. I have been tinting for seven years now, five for dealerships and two years in retail, where I am currently at. Was hoping to get some information regarding your experiences and if it is a common trend in this industry.. what exactly would you guys consider fair pay for the work that you do? Lets say I work for an absentee shop owner. Lets say I handle front and back end duties of the shop.. I provide quotes, schedule appointments, handle walk-ins, take calls, send invoi…
Last reply by Dano, -
- 1 follower
- 1 reply
- 38 views
On a SUV, when u have it loaded up, and you know when something/somethings will touch the back glass (if tinted), I often throw a mover towels ontop as I have definately replaced rear tint in this due to it getting scratched.... Which got me thinking or over -thinking. Movers towel while not hard is not exactly soft... Do I need to throw a *soft* microfiber towel on it so if it rubs against the back glass, it won't scratch the tint.
Last reply by Tintguy1980, -
- 2 followers
- 8 replies
- 143 views
I just got my 2023 Tesla front windshield and front windows tinted with Xpel XR Plus nano-ceramic (70% windshield and 35% front windows). Based an Xpel claims of 96% IR rejection XPEL-PRIME-Spec-Sheet-USA-V2-1.pdf I used a Solar Power Meter that measure the infrared/heat. I made some measurements and I was suprised of the results. It appears that it's FAR from 96% IR rejection as claimed. Please note this is full sun (no glass) vs glass AND tint. I should have done the glass only but too late (tint already applied). I'll try to find a non-tinted car to take the measurements in the future...Car: 2023 Model YTint type: Xpel XR plus …
Last reply by Tintguy1980, -
- 1 follower
- 3 replies
- 77 views
Hi, I at crossroads with picking window tint for my car. I am set on getting a ceramic film, but the options are so many that has me confused but have narrowed down to 4. Here are they.... Xpel XR: $422 Autobahn Black Ceramic: $385 Llumar CTX: $375 3M Ceramic IR: $375 All 3 installers are listed on their respective brand sites. This is for my personal car. I want to pick best performance for $. Thanks!
Last reply by Ryker, -
- 1 follower
- 0 replies
- 43 views
Hi everyone, I need help picking the best window tint for my car. I want to get a ceramic film and have gotten few quotes. Now while comparing them it got me confused. Here are my options listed from most to least expensive https://19216801.onl/ . Xpel XR Autobahn Black Ceramic Llumar CTX or 3M Ceramic IR I am looking for perfomance and longevity.
Last reply by venesa00, -
- 2 followers
- 4 replies
- 89 views
Hey guys so I want to start getting into tinting and see where it goes. Possibly a business if I like it and am any good. What are some good films for practicing but will still give a couple years of looking halfway decent. I've tried to look at prices of the nicer films like geoshield etc. But can't seem to find any. Do I call a local distributor or how would I go about it if I decide to follow through and stick with it? Thanks in advance for any advice.
Last reply by Jleff8621, -
- 2 followers
- 7 replies
- 190 views
I have clear glass on a 356C recreation and would like to recreate this German factory green glass look. It needs to look original.. UV Ceramic protection.. Project is envemo_356c_no119 on Instagram Does anyone have experience with llumar air blue 80? Is it as dark at the photo posted below? Thanks in advance for your help..
Last reply by highplains, -
- 2 followers
- 1 reply
- 66 views
I had xpel xr+ installed and noted a defect in the tint (looked like a pencil eraser sized rough area) and shop said they would remove and replace https://omegle.onl/ . I’m wondering if the removal and replacement is going to lead to a worse end result (e.g. left over residue from first tint) and I should just live with the defect. Thoughts?
Last reply by LeadfootCJ7, -
- 1 reply
- 46 views
Last reply by Dano, -
3M Crystalline for 499 for a RAV4? Houston shop 1 2
by Guest Opalrev- 1 follower
- 10 replies
- 1.3k views
Hey, I want an opinion on a Houston tint shop named Executive Motorsports. They initially were selling me their BlackMax ceramic tint, and I told them I was 3M Crystalline. They have quoted 499 for all 4 drs and back window. Is this a fair price? They say it will come with all watermarks and genuine warranty paperwork. Also, can anyone tell me if they are good at what they do? They seem to have the most reviews in the city.
Last reply by LeadfootCJ7, -
- 1 follower
- 2 replies
- 125 views
Hi, I am shopping around for window tints for my tesla model 3 and so far the two best prices are $850 for xpel on all 4 windows and both windshields, or $650 for the same thing but with global films. Both have great reviews and a lot of experience with tesla tints (I heard they are harder to install yet i’m not sure if thats true or not). I’ve been browsing a couple threads and people have no issues with global films but not really raving about it at all. However, for some reason the tesla threads seem to all recommend xpel. I was wondering if xpel is really worth the extra $200? It is also a bit of a lengthier drive which I dont mind either if xpel is really that much b…
Last reply by Tint Solutions, -
- 1 follower
- 1 reply
- 60 views
I got a tint from Black Optix on my new Bronco. Ford dealer failed inspection. My primary care doctor has ignored the medical form I left at the front desk. My eye doctor said this morning some bs about she can only fill them out if you have a certain condition. How do you get a illegal tint inspected around here. Such a hassle. Driving around with a fuckin Guinness coaster taped to the windshield https://routerlogin.uno/ https://192168ll.link/.
Last reply by TintDude, -
- 1 follower
- 1 reply
- 93 views
Hi, I am shopping around for window tints for my tesla model 3 and so far the two I found is $650 for global on all 4 windows and both windshields, or $600 for the same thing but with llumar ctx. Both have great reviews and a lot of experience with tesla tints (I heard they are harder to install yet i’m not sure if thats true or not). In your opinion, does it matter? Price different is extremely minimal so it doesn’t really matter to me. Just trying to see which one is the better tint.
Last reply by Ryker, -
- 1 follower
- 1 reply
- 98 views
I am not a tinter. However, I did have my 2015 Dodge Charger tinted today. Got home and realized the back driver side door will not open. It won’t open from the outside or the inside. Is there something the installer could have done to screw something up or know something lose inside the door panel?
Last reply by pbalentine, -
- 1 follower
- 0 replies
- 30 views
408-898-9551 3029 Meridian Ave San Jose, CA 95124 https://www.sanjosecommercialtinting.com/ We strive to reduce disruptions and distractions to ensure your comfort and productivity meet or exceed your needs. Our work delivers several advantages you can experience from the moment the job is done.
Last reply by SanJoseTinting01, -
- 7 replies
- 342 views
Thought i'd ask the experts here on any opinions between these two films. I'm a believer that the installer is the biggest differentiator and am only looking at what i'd consider the top 2 shops in my area. Two of those stores flipped to XPEL in the last few years since i've used them (both carried Wincos previously). No experience with XPEL and how it compares to Llumar/Formula One stuff. Mainly looking for great heat rejection as well as what's going to hold up well for several years in the southern US (HOT). XPEL shops both quoted their film as having 88% heat rejection, but looking at TSER that looks like BS. Comparing a 30% VLT, looks like 57% XPEL,…
Last reply by Tintguy1980, -
- 1 follower
- 11 replies
- 518 views
Hi, this is my first post so I apologize if I am in the wrong place completely but I recently had my windows tinted and now have these consistent scratches. Each photo represents a different window so all 4 of my roll downs have the same scratching pattern that goes for around 6 inches across and 1-2 inches down from the top of the window. These scratches are not the entire length of the window but instead in the same spot in each window. The tint shop I went to said they did not do it so I am looking for some expert opinions on if they could have done this and furthermore, how it could have happened? Thank you!
Last reply by Darkimag22, -
- 1 follower
- 0 replies
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hey guys, ive tinted a million of these and never ever no problem. i tinted just the rear windows and when the customer left they said the camera is switching on and off while driving? does anyone know whats goiing on and how to fix? any suggestions? Thanks for your help.
Last reply by sabin64, -
- 1 follower
- 2 replies
- 174 views
You might already be using this method and if so, why the heck haven't you told us about it? If not, this method might just be your new favorite thing. I discovered this method doing a removal on an SUV hatch and didn't want to get glue all over me from it being over my head. I tried this method and will be using it on ALL removals from now on. By now we are all using some type of adhesive remover that works really well turning the glue to goo; but it's rather messy. Usually we pull the old piece off in one piece leaving the glue. Spray the glue with remover and then put the removed piece of film back on the glass reversed and let it soak. …
Last reply by AweSauce, -
- 1 follower
- 0 replies
- 69 views
Hey guys, I just wanted to hear some stories of everyone else's tint story, for the previous 2 years I've dabbled with tinting family and friends' cars and just this year I decided to take this seriously, I've got got a shop space, and a plotter and I would my hand cutting skills are all right. For the last month, I've just been practicing and practicing before marketing myself to do actual customer vehicles. I plan on starting to do customer vehicles starting April after some more practicing but I just can't get over that feeling of messing someone's tint up and they end up being quite upset, so I just wanted to hear everyone else's story regarding how long did it take b…
Last reply by TintLabb, -
- 1 follower
- 0 replies
- 58 views
I am in Houston and recently acquired a 21 GLS 450. I want to tint the 2 front doors. I would like to go ceramic (Every other vehicle I have owned previously has had traditional dye film). For various reasons I am planning on going 35%-40%. I would like the general color of the film to go with the factory privacy film (gray/black). My guy that I have used for 20+ years uses Ceramikool (solar control I believe). Some things I have read is that this has a bit of a green color to it and I am concerned this will not look right on a dark gray vehicle with black interior and black privacy glass everywhere else. I have seen pics of it installed in 70% and it d…
Last reply by LeadfootCJ7, -
- 1 follower
- 1 reply
- 104 views
Everytime I try to shrink side and back windows these small fingers pop up on the side and the bottom of the window. I’m not sure if it is because I’m over shrinking or is it just due to the fact that the film I am using is cheap ? Rock Rose tint film from Amazon
Last reply by Bham, -
- 1 follower
- 8 replies
- 507 views
I am currently new to window tinting and would to learn how to tint in a class on hands or in a shop for afew days i will be willing to go to a shop in st louis or kansas city and willing to pay but i dont have alot of money to pay so please be cheap lol
Last reply by Ryker, -
- 1 follower
- 1 reply
- 96 views
Does anyone have experience with either Madico's clear film or Johnson's 20 blister free film? I have a customer with a polycarbonate door on his skid steer. It is not an easy shrink and wanted to know how they perform. I have already tinted his glass door so I could use that to heat form the film if it will take it. Thanks
Last reply by Roach, -
midas window film good or bad? 1 2
by Guest ru-tinter- 1 follower
- 12 replies
- 9.1k views
been using it for one year so far no complaints. on hp they giving 10 year warranty .looks good ,shrinks good the price is good
Last reply by Masters, -
- 1 follower
- 3 replies
- 517 views
New car arrives at the dealership on Tuesday and I’m having trouble deciding between these two products. For four windows and the rear (no windshield), the XR Plus is $250 more expensive than the Xenith IR. Is the XPEL that much better? It’s a 25% cost difference. Was going to do 35% all around. Would love your thoughts! Thank you!
Last reply by pbalentine, -
- 1 follower
- 9 replies
- 142 views
"1979 lincoln town car" rear glass issue! Thanks!
Last reply by Dano, -
- 1 follower
- 0 replies
- 98 views
Hello, I am JW Choi from sales team at Mirae Solaire, best window film maker in S.Korea. We have a variety selection of window films, both for commercial & vehicles. We have plenty of products from glue, dyed, carbon to ceramic and so on! If you are interested, feel free to contact me!!! Thanks Sincerely yours
Last reply by JW Choi, -
- 3 followers
- 7 replies
- 386 views
Hello everyone I’m new to this window tint world was thinking about giving it a try want to know everyone inputs on what tint film should I buy to start…don’t want no Walmart or AutoZone cheap film I want something for my business
Last reply by JW Choi, -
- 1 follower
- 4 replies
- 772 views
Who's makes the best patterns for window tint. Im having a nightmare with one company and their pattens suck and I'm wasting good film and money. I won't say what company, I bet someone will guess quickly.
Last reply by jonathan9573, -
- 2 followers
- 17 replies
- 1.8k views
Would would be a reasonable request from the shop that installed this tint on my car? I provided a 35% ceramic tint ($75 cost, so low end) and just needed the installation completed for a car I plan to sell in the near future. We agreed if bubbles, fading, etc. appeared a several weeks from now or any point down the road they wouldn't be responsible because it was tint I purchased and they couldn't warranty a product they didn't sell (completely understandable, no worries). It was cloudy outside so I didn't catch everything, but I saw enough tint that was put over adhesive that hadn't been completely removed (I took off 99% of the prior tint, which was disc…
Last reply by JohnGalt, -
- 1 follower
- 5 replies
- 231 views
In the process of ordering our first shipment of Tint inventory and also a Cutting machine since vynal will be up coming in the near future. I have been looking at a few machines, pretty much got it dialed down to a Graphtec FC9000, Work Horse 2 64” , and the Titan 3. The Titan 3 caught my attention very quick on Flexfilmstore.com website where they have it setup when you spend $5,000 in store supplies you can get 60% off the Plotter (Titan 3). Would work out perfectly if I could go ahead and Stock up on and film and save major on the cutting machine. All good right? Now comes my issue with the film, iv looked up reviews on the tint films offered from the Flex…
Last reply by Dano, -
- 0 replies
- 87 views
New only song I know of it’s kind coming for the master Tinters you can check it out at Pretty Fresh this song hits home… amazing ☝️☝️☝️☝️☝️☝️
Last reply by Tint speed, -
- 1 follower
- 0 replies
- 88 views
Evening all. Just started out tinting and was wondering what the best/easiest film for beginners to use in the UK. Cheers Sean
Last reply by Sean murray, -
- 6 replies
- 464 views
Hey my tint friends! It's been a very long time since I've posted here at TD. I have a couple questions for anyone who has experience tinting large RV windows. 1. The customer is replacing some windows, but the replacement glass is clear while the existing windows are factory tinted approximately 20%. What's the chance I can match the shade and color between the two? He's asking for limo, so if I was dealing with a standard SUV I would just add 20% to 20% factory tint. Since these windows are flat and it will be much easier to see any minor differences between panes, I'm concerned. 2. The customer is rightfully worried about 4g/5g s…
Last reply by Dano, -
- 4 followers
- 10 replies
- 1.4k views
I've tried out Avery Dennison off and on for a while now and am surprised i don't hear more about it, it's pretty decent, I know the whole Hanita deal and where it comes from, but i'm surprised i don't hear more about it in this forum. Anyone else using Avery Dennison tint film? Any comments on it?
Last reply by Roach, -
- 4 replies
- 238 views
1st car that I've had Windshield tinted. Xpel plus 70% Previous cars have had film between the glass - comfort film, etc. I'm not sure if this is low angle haze or is it -adhesive- splotches I am seeing .....if anyone can shed some light I know I see LAH when the sun is causing it However, in the middle of the windshield, there are times where the WS is clear, but this particular area just doesn't look clear and a bit -splotchy- to me. I have not given much thought think it was LAH but this unclarity is driving me to the forum to ask Presuming it is not LAH at the moment I see this clouding splotchy area in the middl…
Last reply by pbalentine,
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The Off Topic Thread
Woohoo. First day of wearing shorts I LOVE IT!!!! Hope all of y'all are doing well. -
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Customer providing the tint
Is there a reason that they want to provide the tint? -
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Customer providing the tint
I won't put my name on anything but my own film. If you install something else and it fails then all people will see is that "xyz shop" did this job. -
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Tablet software
I've heard of this for wrap printers/wide format, but usually goes to a server that is running the art program and the drivers for the machine for activation. You may need to find an elcheapo laptop, a copy of Corel or Illustrator and load the driver in this instance. Beware, somtimes when you switch from one cutting program to another the plotter language may change or need to be changed from HPPL TO HPGL, or vice versa. Language adjustment is usually somewhere in the menu on the plotter itself. -
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Tablet software
Please forgive me if this sounds off. But with the world of tech changing, I didn't know if there might be apps that I could use from my tablet to my plotter. I work at a dealership and my computer doesn't allow anything but what's installed https://kodi.bio/ . I was looking for something like vector magic or similar programs. Again, sorry if it sounds dumb. I just had to ask. -
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Any product comparable to 3M Prestige PR-70 that is available for the end-user to purchase?
Tell us; is it lowE or hi performance lowE? Your answer will make a world of difference in what use can install. Hi-performance lowE began to be the standard around the year 2000 and it can handle most window films. I personally wouldn't go darker than 35%, though some are known to go darker. If you don't know, play it safe(r). Their are a few film maker that put out a 70%. I'll let others chime in for brand names. -
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Customer providing the tint
Honestly I usually charge the same price. Unless it’s Walmart film I won’t even touch that. I never warranty their film either. So with the price I always turn around and sell them my film with a warranty. -
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Any product comparable to 3M Prestige PR-70 that is available for the end-user to purchase?
Looking at getting solar window film installed on some of the windows in my house. 3M Prestige PR-70 seems to have a good mix of clarity, light transmission, and heat rejection, but can only be bought/installed by authorized sellers. Anybody have suggestions as the best alternative that can be purchased and installed DIY? For what it's worth, I have double-pane low-E windows so I want to make sure I get something that's not going to cause the windows or seals to break from the extra heat absorption https://100001.onl/ Thanks. -
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Customer providing the tint
Well, I recently bought a house where both toilets were the old round, low to the floor type. Called a plumber to assess cost and he was trying to sell me a 650$ toilet. I says, I'll pass and asked if I bought toilets elsewhere, would he install them. He says, yes. It isn't much different when someone supplies the film. Back in my days, the most I would do is give a discount from full price. That would help cover the film cost the custy laid out. Of course, there is absolutely no warranty on product or installation; take it or leave. Oh and ah, don't muck a piece up and be sure they have enough. Even then I gave it my best at install, because ... the person just might be back within a year or two needing an R&R. There was no heating forming film in those days, so that adds a sour point to using customer provided film today. None the less, they are introduced to the business and will either be back for your professional grade film or become a word-of-mouth soundboard for you, or both. My .- 1
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