Remove Window Tint

 

Removing the window tint from your car windows may sound fairly straightforward and for the most part, it can be. However, it can often be much more time consuming and messy than putting the actual tint on in the first place. If you plan to remove your own window tint, make sure that you allot enough time to do so. There is a little more involved in this task than simply stripping the old tint away. If it was put on properly then it will be stuck on very well. Make sure that you have all that you need to get started on this job before you begin.

       

Removing film is best done on a sunny day because heat is required. It could take a long time to remove all the film and pieces of glue. Most tint has two layers, one of which will be relatively easy to remove while the other layer will be quite difficult. It is recommended that you remove both layers together otherwise you will be stuck picking away at the second layer with the glue, but sometimes because of age, or condition of film, this is not always possible. It is extremely important to note that back window tint is stuck on the defrost lines. *You must take extreme caution when removing film from this window or you risk damaging the defroster lines.*

    

   Jiffy Steamer J-2000 Residential Series 1300-Watt Garment Steamer  $149.99 

If you have any type of obstructions around the window, like speakers or anything else, make sure to remove them if possible. More obstacles in your way are only going to hinder your progress.

The next process is if you do not have access to an steamer, which does make the job of removing film much quicker, easier and safer.

Use a garbage bag for this next step. You will have to cut it quite large so that it fits over your entire window. Spray the outside of the window with water and lay the bag over top of it. Now you must climb inside your car with some ammonia, which must be used with the utmost in safety and care. Spray the inside of the window with the ammonia and then park the car in the sun. Do not breathe any ammonia fumes into your lungs. Cover the ammonia with plastic as well to prevent evaporation.

    

                      Homax Products 12Pk #0000 Stl Wool Pad Steel Wool. Amazon $3.66

The point of doing this is to get the glue on the window tint to loosen so that it can be removed easily by peeling away with fingers or scrubbing pad. Let the window sit facing the sun for an hour or more. After that you should be able to peel back the tint. Leave the bag on the window and use a razor blade to peel off the tint slowly, starting at the edges. Be careful not to damage defroster lines with razor blade. After you get the tint off you will have to immediately start on the cleanup of the window. Use fine steel wool and some more ammonia to get the adhesive off.

Quite often the ammonia is only needed for back window tint. Side windows tend to be easier to remove not requiring any chemicals.

Give the entire window a good wash to remove the ammonia. Then go over it with some good window cleaner such as Windex. Remember, this is not generally a fast process. Be patient and take your time so that it comes off the first time you try it. Protect the interior of the car – Use the tarp to protect the inside of the car from damage during the removal process. Make sure to fully protect the area where you will be working initially. The tarp can be moved as you go. During the process of removing window film it will come away from the glass often in tiny pieces. You will have to vacuum out your vehicle once film has been removed.

   

     Milwaukee 8975-6 11.6 Amp 570/1000-Degree Fahrenheit Dual Temperature Heat Gun $63.86

 

  

 

Remove window film from back window without the aid of a steamer.

First off, here is what you will need.

- Bucket of soapy water (brand doesn't matter)
- 2 Large Spray bottle
- Large Black Garbage Bags
- Tarp
- Super Fine Steel Wool
- Sharp Knife or Razor Blade
- Ammonia (make sure that it is undiluted)
- Windex
- Roll of paper towels
- Set aside Approximately 3 1/2 hours maybe longer your first time
- A nice warm sunny day is a must!

* Tint is made up of multiple layers of film.  If it is left under the warm sun, the garbage bag with the help to absorb the heat, making it easier to peel off the film
in one piece!  That is why it is a Must for a nice warm day!

Step 1.
Fill your Large spray bottle with soapy water from your bucket. 

Step 2.
Hold black garbage bag up to your rear window and roughly cut out 2 pieces the shape of the window (one for the outside, and one for the inside that you will use later).  Take your spray bottle and coat the outside of the window with soapy water, then follow by covering it with the black garbage bag and smooth it until it is perfectly flat!

Step 3.
Make sure you Cover and protect everything on the inside of your vehicle near your rear window. Use your tarp to cover, seats, speakers, and anything else that could be harmed by the ammonia.  Next take your second spray bottle and spray the entire window film with your undiluted ammonia.

Its very important to remember, that Ammonia has a very strong smell.  I would recommend wearing a face mask, or tying a bandana over your nose and mouth, to avoid the smell as much as possible.

Step 4.
Now that the window is still wet from ammonia, you need to trap the ammonia on the window film, with the 2nd garbage bag (the one you cut out earlier).  Make sure the rear window is pointed in the direction of the sun for at least an hour or two to help soften the tint's adhesive.

Step 5.
Once you have completed step 4, you are ready to start peeling the window film.  Start in the corner of the window and try lifting the film with your knife or razor blade. Once it is started continue to peel the film off in one piece!  Make sure that you keep in moist with your spray bottle of ammonia as you strip it away.  Use your razor blade to remove and pieces left behind.  Its very important to make sure you do not cut the defroster lines, so pay attention as you are scraping!

Step 6.

Last but not least, Remove any leftover adhesive with your ammonia and steel wool, making sure to wipe it with a paper towel before it dries!  Then, remove exterior garbage bag, and using paper towels and your Windex make sure to clean your window thoroughly!

If you have any questions please call us at 916-863-1550

 

Home | Window Tinting | Paint Protection | FAQ's | About Us l Contact Us l Rewards Card l Contact Form l Gift Certificate

               Clear Headlight Film l  Pre Cut Auto Film l Safety & Security  l How Much Does It Cost l  Links Page l Site Map

               $25.00 OFF Coupon l Car Wash Coupon l  Energy Saving l