Window Tinting - General Discussion
An Open Forum for the Window Tinting Industry.
54,004 topics in this forum
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Thought this was funny so I figured I’d share. had someone just call me asking me to tint the two front windows on a x3, he asked about a warranty so I told him I’d warranty any peeling or fading or if there are any obvious imperfections. Says “I don’t want any bubbles I want guaranteed perfection, it’s a BMW”.. told him that’s not happening and he pretty much hung up. 😂
Last reply by Dano, -
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2021 Dodge Durango door lock
by Guest Bkw- 3 replies
- 558 views
I have a 2021 Dodge Durango that one of the front doors lock flutters up and down when you press the lock switch on the panel. Has anyone had this issue or now how to fix it? It locks with the remote.
Last reply by Dano, -
- 1 reply
- 274 views
It has been almost 4 yrs since I last logged in...How's everyone been doing? I have been crazy busy since, which has been a blessing. Each day is a blessing, really. I've noticed there are more customers joining the forum and asking questions about installs and the film industry. I'm happy to see that bc it gives them insight as well as 1st hand critiques of other installers out there. Nothing bothers me more than a paid customer getting sh*tty installs done....only to say dust and dirt specks "will dry out". So, what have you guys/gals been up to last 2-3yrs? LOL😀
Last reply by TintDude, -
- 1 reply
- 578 views
Hey all! First time being on the site in a long time! Question for anyone who may know… Has anyone ever attended or heard anything about 44 tools window tinting course? Was wondering if it would be worth the time. I am interested in attending it since it’s only about 150 miles from me. Otherwise I know there are other options out there but this one seems be the longest one for about the same cost as most others. Thanks for any input 😎
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- 2 replies
- 560 views
I own a 2019 Civic Coupe. Made the mistake and got dealership tint added for “free” as part of the buying process back in 2019. Anyways. It was some cheap film that began peeling. Two weeks ago I found the best shop in my area, one that is highly recommended amongst the state, opted for their highest trim of tint, as well as their tint removal. Overall I spent 800 dollars. 620 for XPEL XR+ and 180 for removal. I opted not to go cheap, and go all in as to I plan to keep the vehicle for a while. Anyways. The tinter is very professional, and runs a good shop from what it seems. My biggest worry was my back windshield. My defroster lines are thick and the matri…
Last reply by XPEL, -
Hello! I have a 1998 Lexus ES300 and recently went ahead and got a $600 Autobahn "Black Ceramic" tint with 15% for all four doors and back windshield. One thing I wanted to mention if I could possibly get someone's opinion on is, would it be possible for the tint shop to simply give me a lower quality "non-ceramic" tint even though I paid for ceramic tint? There are two reasons for my concern: Right before I left my car at the tint shop, I made the mistake of taking pictures of the exterior and interior of my car just to make sure I would be aware of any damage that was already done to the car prior to leaving it with them as I ended up having to sign a wa…
Last reply by highplains, -
- 1 reply
- 1.9k views
I'm looking around my area for tint shops to tint my '21 Civic hatchback and I have found one who has quoted me the following: Xpel High Performance for $300 Or Xpel full Ceramic(unsure which Xpel film) for $450 The second shop has Avery Dennison film and has quoted me Their standard film for $250 Or Nano Ceramic for $330 I haven't found much on Avery films and am wondering what you guys would personally pay for.
Last reply by XPEL, -
- 3 replies
- 434 views
Hi everyone! I'm in crisis and need help! I have lost my key fob from my 2020 ILX, contacted dealer and they quoted like $600. plus gotta tow the car there!!! This is way too expensive... Any cheaper solutions that anyone has come across maybe? Any advice highly appreciated! Thanks in advance
Last reply by Joy123, -
- 3 replies
- 693 views
I wonder if we can start a new page just for a list of bad pattens on tintek 2020. This would be very helpful, the manufacture of the program does not seem to update or fix bad patterns. The amount of film I waste every month is equivalent or more than the cost of the program. Im going back to hand cutting on all doors. Suv. rear windows seem ok and rear windows of trucks. That about what this program is really good for.
Last reply by Cooltimes, -
- 7 replies
- 665 views
Recently been tired of tinting feel like getting into a different line of work. I used to love what I do but recently just haven’t been into it as much? Any of you guys feel the same way? If so what did you do to get that motivation again?
Last reply by Jkatfelix, -
- 3 replies
- 1.3k views
Hello folks. I had my windshield tinted with Madico Black Pearl Nano 75% on my truck's windshield a month ago, which is in flawless condition and am very happy with. A few days ago I installed a dashcam using double sided tape directly onto the film, but I'm not satisfied with the camera placement, so I'd like to redo it. Problem is that the double sided tape is the strong red-backed VHB type and at this point it's on there good and tight. Is there a best practice to removing items taped to window film without peeling the film with it? My initial plan was to take a razor and wedge it in between the tape and the dashcam and try to separate it without messing w…
Last reply by zaphod, -
- 0 replies
- 392 views
Please let me know! I need an opinion
Last reply by BMMPHOTO, -
- 1 reply
- 389 views
I am new to the window tinting world and have been trying to improve my skills. I recently did an older Honda Accord which turned into a nightmare. I am a bottom loader and remove door panels in order to remove the seal but on these accords the door handle cable likes to break which is obviously not good. The other bad thing that happened was the door look pin seized for some reason not allowing the door to unlock. Are there any other cars or Honda models that you don’t recommend removing door panels and instead use the 2 stage method?
Last reply by pbalentine, -
- 5 replies
- 780 views
Just got my car tinted on 2 front windows a day ago. Driver side is fine. Passenger side not so much. If you look at the lower portion there is a piece that is just hanging off of the tint and it's cut a little short... Is this something I can get removed/re-installed? Called the shop owner and the guy said it's custom and hard to get it precise... Passenger side: Driver side
Last reply by TintDude, -
Hi all. Long time lurker and finally decided to create an account to ask a question as I could not find an answer by searching. (There is a summary of my situation and a TL;DR at the bottom) "Little" background. I originally had Formula One Pinnacle on my windows (35% front and 5% all rears) and Air Blue on the windshield. I grew tired of the AIr Blue and wanted something a little darker. I was about to go for the 3M Crystalline 50 but then came across the Spectra Photosync. I was really impressed with the numbers. I know that there were no third parties to verify the numbers were valid but I decided to go for it. Luckily a very reputable shop has this regularly in stock…
Last reply by Koroner, -
Calculating percentage of 2 layers of film? 1 2
by Guest pimpedout97x- 16 replies
- 112.5k views
Is there a way to calculate this? for instance, if a window had 2 layers of tint, 15% and 35%, what would that be similiar to had it been 1 layer of darker film, vs 2 lighter films? both films are the same exact brand from the same shop (Llumar)
Last reply by Koroner, -
- 23 replies
- 8.6k views
Getting tint done in next couple weeks trying to choose a place. all decent installers. local places: place 1 : uses rayno s9 ceramic. $300 place 2: llumar ceramic ctx $349 place 3: global nr quick dry ceramic $430.00 Drive 2 hours to Place 4: Llumar IRX $400.00 Place 5: Llumar formula 1 pinnacle $400.00 Which would you guys do, all seem like good installers?
Last reply by Golf983, -
- 9 replies
- 502 views
Hello all, So I bought a camper a few months back and wanted to get the windows tinted to help with the heat. I contacted multiple places to get it done “professionally”. I was either told they are just to busy or the prices were extremely ridiculous. So I began researching for days to try and do this project on my own. After many hours/days searching the internet and watching YT videos I finally found a tint company to buy from (film and tools). I purchased enough to tint my camper along with 3 vehicles. I figured what the heck this looks like something I would enjoy doing on my off time and what better way to learn this craft is to practice on vehicles I own…
Last reply by Bubbles, -
- 1 reply
- 490 views
I have a street level house with lots of windows. I need recommendations for creating more privacy and prevent passersby from looking into my house. I am looking for ways to increase the privacy during the daytime, but at the same time not diminish the amount of light. I'm in the West Coast Seattle area and love natural light and want as much of it in during the day. At night I have roller shades for privacy. I've looked into mirror-tint and I like the amount of privacy for daytime. The problem is my Strata probably won't allow it because it's too obvious/shiny. I've checked out frosted-tint but don't like how I can't look out from inside. I've …
Last reply by Roach, -
- 7 replies
- 605 views
Hello All, A little while ago I had all the windows on my Ford Escape tinted. After a few days I noticed the film on the driver’s side window wasn’t all the way to the back edge of the glass. I took it back and the tinter redid the window. Fast forward to today when I noticed this is the lower corner of the glass. Is this old adhesive from the original tint that wasn’t completely removed? A defect in the glass? It can be felt when placing my finger over it on the inside. If this is old adhesive is this little bit of residue acceptable? Overall I’m very happy with the job and don’t want to be one of those…
Last reply by Matth123, -
- 2 replies
- 541 views
So to keep this short, we were asked by a boat dealer down the street to tint a Baja boat that has a wrap around windshield. The boat had a tree fall on it and they have repaired everything. The company doesn't make replace glass for the windshield so they had to get acrylic instead of glass. I'm hesitant to try and install on this due to the heat we'd have to put on it for the curve. I'd like to know what others have done in this situation. Have you had any issues with acrylic, have you had any adhesion issues etc. Please note, I've done boats of this style and curve and don't have a problem with them. My issue is that it's acrylic and not glass.
Last reply by Darkimag22, -
- 0 replies
- 344 views
I bought some 70% Madico Wincos from ebay. Is anyone in the US willing to check a sample for me to verify it's legit before I attempt the install? I've heard good things about the high TSER films, and Wincos was what I could source in smaller quantities. I expected a blue shade from reviews, but this looks pretty grey to me. I don't know much about tint. Fingers crossed that it'll work out. I'm in the US & assume I could just send you a 3x6" rectangle in an envelope? Thanks
Last reply by nalel, -
- 1 reply
- 427 views
I tinted a Accord yesterday and the install went prettu damn good for my first time and passable for a decent job. The trouble I had was on install. I use the same slip I use on the side windows. My film will start sliding down after intial squeegee if that tells you how much slip ratio I use. Shrinking went well and I reverwe rolled it. But on install after unrolling on the inside. You had to unroll to tuck on down at the bottom. That film jammed in place. I had to pull and yank of course adding debris and creases to the mix. I sprayed more slip and still did not help. What did I do wrong. Why couldnt I slide it at all. Im not too h…
Last reply by pbalentine, -
- 4 replies
- 540 views
I got all the windows on my car tinted. The guy put a strip on the windshield but now there is this dark strip that just suddenly stops. I was hoping to replace with something that gradually goes from dark to clear, so it looks nicer. I can't find any tint like this. Is it something that exists?
Last reply by IMTheNachoMan, -
- 1 reply
- 494 views
In North Idaho, we built southern-facing with the back of the house in the hillside for thermal stability. In the spring and fall, with the lower azimuth angle, we've used solar gain to reduce heating needs. We use wood in a boiler for radiant floor heat. In the summer, the sun doesn't enter the windows because of the large eaves and the higher azimuth angle that time of year. We bought a couch and are now concerned about fade. So, we're opposite from most. We use that solar gain twice a year, so reducing it would increase our heating needs which we'd rather not do. There are 6 large fixed low-e fixed glass windows, with 6 smaller operable awning windows below…
Last reply by Roach, -
- 4 replies
- 493 views
Sorry for the question, is the first car I get tinted. A 2014 Corolla. I had my windows tinted, the shop did a good job, I had 35 on the front and 25% on the back windows and rear windshield. I can't see anything but the defrost lines glares. It brothers me a lot while driving. Now my questions are. Would be best to change the rear windshield to a lighter tint ? Will be ok to only change the rear window and leave the other back windows at 25, or best to change all windows to match? Would be better to leave the rear shield without tint? Thank you for your help
Last reply by Bham, -
- 5 replies
- 817 views
Hello, I need some advice on these scratches - I got my Audi A1 rear windows tinted 5% yesterday, I was recommended the shop by a couple of friends, I noticed today on one of the rear passenger windows that there are quite a few scratches on the outside surface in the same direction. I noticed quite a few scratches in other places as well which I was willing to oversee but then I noticed this (please see image). I don't want to accuse the shop if I don't have to, the car is a few years old and didn't have any previous tint but I've never noticed these scratches before. Please could you tell me whether it is likely these scratches could have been caused by…
Last reply by The ///Man, -
An old dog learned a new trick
by Guest kevin@kgautospecialties.co- 4 replies
- 1k views
So I've been tinting for a little over 30 years. Problem is I have been tinting the same way for almost 30 years, mostly because it works. Thursday I set up my new plotter. Holy nuts! Why did I ever wait so long? Watched a few You tube videos also. Bottom loading? I doubt it is as flawless on all vehicles but this method is ridiculously simple and fast! Moral of this post. Keep an open mind and remain open to suggestions on alternate methods.
Last reply by Likemytintz, -
- 3 replies
- 423 views
Went from doing nothing but teslas to regular cars. Man I miss tinting them. What's your favorite cars to tint??
Last reply by Likemytintz, -
- 0 replies
- 148 views
Window wraps are materials that are installed around the outside of windows. Window wraps are usually made of window-coated aluminum that wrap around the surface of the window frame. Window wraps offer many benefits ranging from increasing the security of your home to increasing energy savings. Window cladding can be a very practical solution for branding, promotion, and sponsor signals as it can provide an extra sense of privacy while delivering the desired message. Not only this, with the help of fire you can make welds. They are available in different colors and shades according to your aesthetic needs. The options for window graphics, window wrapping, and door wrappin…
Last reply by karizsays7, -
- 13 replies
- 765 views
Im.sorry to bug you guys. Im struggling here with my top cut. I practice and practice and practice. Then when Im doing a car I choke. Cut is uniform. Just doesnt line uo straight across the window. It is either too close up front or in the back or on the leading edge. I have been shaving with a file to make it perfect for paying customers. I would love to get a micro edge everytime. I find with shaving I get trash more than I dont. Its so discouraging and not sure how to fix it. I watch vidoes and have Stans Series. Still doesnt get in depth on top cutting. Guess I could learn to shave but done want to go th…
Last reply by Ryker, -
- 17 replies
- 34.2k views
I found a local person to install Global tint on my new Model 3 for a great price, I think it's QDP ceramic. I've tried looking around for some definitive reviews but have gotten mixed feelings. Some people are very content, others claim Global films turn purple. What I have seen are generally positive comments on 3M, and Llumar. How do Global films stack against 3M and Llumar? Would love to hear what the pros here have to say. Right now I am debating between Global for $260, or Llumar CTX for $400.
Last reply by Sunbreakers, -
- 0 replies
- 220 views
Have a job that I'm looking to sub an installer or 2 on. Based in central NJ, job is on the coast. 1 or possibly 2 days. If interested please email me: Atlanticapplication@gmail.com Pay is 1,800 Thanks, Tom
Last reply by Buck, -
- 0 replies
- 228 views
Summer months are here. Which means the sun is going to start beating down on us while we drive. A lot of us have tinted windows, but is your tint designed to protect against harmful UV rays? XPEL PRIME XR PLUS is guaranteed to protect against 99% of UV rays and deflect 98% of infrared heat to keep interiors cool and reduce hot spots. We recently tinted the windows on this new Cadillac Escalade with XR Black. Our 'limo tint' grade. At our Las Vegas location. Tint looks great, adds privacy, and keeps you protected from the sun.
Last reply by XPEL, -
- 6 replies
- 697 views
Hi guys, I have been using the same tint installer on my vehicles for the past 10 years/10 vehicles or so and he has always done great work but lately im having issues, not sure if its him or the film itself. He used to carry solar FX and autobahn. Ive had both of these installed 35% and 50% on the windshield with no clarity issues. He has since switched to Xpel window films. I had a new windshield put in my BMW and immediately had it tinted, even after a few weeks i had clarity issues. if you focused closely on the glass instead of the scenery ahead, it almost appeared to have a stretched or fisheye look that blurred everything. I honestly thought it was bad glass work …
Last reply by TINTZEUS, -
- 3 replies
- 168 views
Just a quick hello and introduction. I was around the TD community several years ago when I worked with a film distributor in Oklahoma. I returned from overseas in 2018 and now jumping back into the industry. I recently purchased a company called Digicut and hoping to network and reconnect with friends that I lost touch with when I moved away. Is anyone planning to attend the window film conference coming up in Orlando? Thanks! Judd
Last reply by ElementShield, -
- 3 replies
- 503 views
I'm moving to a sunny state soon and know my sun exposure will be a lot higher there than where I currently am. I also recently had moles removed and some were bad, which Doc stated that it ups my risk factor significantly for Melanoma. She pretty much told me "no sun". I drive a lot. I ride a lot. Driving/riding around is one of my favorite things to do. What tint would you recommend for someone like me? The window tint rules are a lot more lax in the state I'm moving to as well, but I don't want completely blacked out windows or anything. What level of tint could I get away with for decent protection? Thank you! -Cat
Last reply by WearTheFoxHat, -
tint
by dantheman80- 3 replies
- 437 views
if i put one layer of 25% tint on and i want to add another layer to make 5% what should i put on top of the 25%
Last reply by TINTZEUS, -
- 1 reply
- 205 views
The 2021 Nissan Sentra has "dye" in order to pass for window tint. This dye causes thin film interference and makes driving the automobile a DANGEROUS and certainly an important part of driving on public roads and highways. The Dealer$hip and Nissan refuse to fix the POS driver's, front passenger's and rear window stating that the problem is the sunglasses, nearsighted glasses and the type of lenses that darken as the outside light increases. Is there any one else that would like to add to this ? Give me an idea of how to resolve the issue ? Or is an attorney that can help ? Thanks, Andy
Last reply by TINTZEUS, -
- 8 replies
- 1.3k views
Let's play a little game called "Oh,, By the way" Things you need to know that the customer fails to tell you. Try to keep it tint related and please, Keep it clean and have fun. started this because of one I had today and thought we all could have a little fun with this. I'll start with, Got and early 2000 S-10 in today. Oh, BTW = The drivers window has film that needs removing. We tried to clean the passenger window but left glue around the top edge so the window is glued to the rubber. " " = The rear window has film on it that needs to be removed, but I'm gonna act like I didn't real…
Last reply by Bham,
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Olfa blades are not as sharp as they used to be
I switched so long ago... first to KDS but they went away. NT are great though. I use a piece of white strapping material as a cutting buffer between the blade and glass. Some use a button but I didn't like the feel..- 1
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Headlight Taillight Vinyl question... (Looking for CHROME)
I'm looking for a chrome/mirror wrap for headlights/taillights. No NEOchrome, just a mirror or chrome appearance. Looking to spice up a project. Looking for transparent so can see lights thru film. I have looked and can't find what fits the bill. Any help appreciated. Thanks in advance. -
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Stratos 70 on windshield, what is this?
I can't win with getting tint decent on the windshield. I had 3M on my F150 done twice and still has major defects. Recently did Stratos twice on my F350 and I see this granular spotted, texture pattern on the tint. It's super obvious in the corner here but also right in my view when driving. It's honestly hard to point out and show someone but when your driving and stuff is moving behind the windshield, it becomes more obvious. The lighting also matters. The first time I did the windshield, I had a two foot line on the windshield. Thinking it was tint, they removed the tint and it was apparently a defect in the Ford windshield. An issue between the laminated glass layers caused this big defect. So they removed the tint, I had Ford replace the windshield on a 2024 F350 but when the tint shop removed the tint, they made a bunch of micro scratches in the front windshield, probably from scrapping the glue off. I told them but I didn't care since Ford was replacing the windshield anyways. So if basically I'm trying to figure out what this texture stuff is and if I should have them replace or remove it. Replacing it might just have different issues but also afraid they will scratch the windshield. -
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Wtb Solar Gard Supreme NR 40
I would direct you to Express Window Films web site. They sell Global brand after setting up an account with them. They are reasonably priced and they do partials. Can't go wrong with Global.- 1
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Need some help
Never overlook the condition of the floor. Back when I did install, I used to mist the floor between the vehicle and the peel board. This is done between misting the window and walking toward the peel board to mist the pattern liner, peel liner and spray adhesive for install. Tacks any dust for the duration of each pattern install, so repeat each time a pattern is going to be installed. -
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Olfa blades are not as sharp as they used to be
Yeah, at least a decade ago rumored to be different as a result of a US based manufacturer making Olfa blades sold here at home. Of course, Olfa would deny coupling up with a US maker. I, too, switched to NT.- 1
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Olfa blades are not as sharp as they used to be
Olfa has been terrible for years. Switched to NT a long time ago.- 1
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Olfa blades are not as sharp as they used to be
We have been using olfa blades forever but in the past year we have noticed the quality of the blades is not the same as it used to be. Blades are not as sharp and pressing harder is starting to etch the glass on certain vehicles. Would like to know if anyone else is experiencing this or is there a better brand ss blades that you have been using that is a better trusted brand. -
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Help Needed! - Graphtec FC4100-75 - Software/Compatibility/Drivers/Communication/Blades/Setup
Bump on this. I spoke with Film & Vinyl Design and the rep told me their cutting software contains the drivers for the Graphtec 4100 models. They also mentioned it will work with Windows 11. Any one have experience with this program, good or bad things to say about it? -
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Need some help
Push out all the air you can then… Heat up area with heat gun and use a hard card to press them down while everything is still fresh… don’t over heat prep work is key… you can also use masking tape on the gaskets and carefully peel the tape out once you have all the fingers out- 1
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