If you have window tint on your car, chances are you were looking to improve the look of the car as well as enjoy the UV protection the tint provides. Seeing unsightly bubbles pop up on the surface of your windows is frustrating. If you’re noticing window tint bubbles, here’s what you need to know about fixing them.
Why They Occur
Sometimes, bubbles occur as a normal part of the application process, as water gets trapped in between the window and the film. If these don’t disappear within two weeks, it’s a sign of poor application. Dirt and debris on the window before application, for instance, can prevent adhesive from sticking. Bubbles can also occur when the tint is starting to break down or the adhesive is beginning to fail.
Be Proactive and Prevent Window Tint Bubbles
The best course of action to protect against bubbling is to prevent them from developing in the first place. Here are some tips to help ensure you don’t get bubbles:
- Choose the right product. The better the window tint’s quality, the less likely it is to bubble.
- Have it installed professionally. Professional installers know how to properly adhere the tint and prevent problems.
- Clean it properly. Use products that don’t have ammonia to protect the film and adhesive. Also, avoid vinegar to clean windows. Products that specify “for use on tinted windows” or plain soap and water are best.
These tips can help remove air bubbles in window tint, in most instances, but sometimes they will still occur. When that happens, you need a plan for removing them.
How to Fix Window Tint Bubbles
If you get bubbles in your tint, what can you do? The best solution is to visit the installer to have them removed professionally. The installer will likely have a policy about window tint bubbles after the install is complete, and you may be able to have the problem remedied with no additional cost.
If not, consider these steps for removing bubbles from window tint:
- Warm the window by placing the car in the sun. If the weather is not warm, warm the surface with a hair dryer.
- Mist the window with room-temperature water to moisten, but not soak, the window.
- Poke a tiny hole in each bubble with a straight pin. The hole needs to be tiny, and you need to use caution not to rip the film.
- Make sure the window is still warm and damp, then use a credit card or other straight edge to slowly smooth the bubbles. Smooth toward the edge that is closest to the bubble. Hold the card at a 45-degree angle and move gently and slowly to avoid damage.
- Dry the window with a lint-free cloth, and check for any other damage or bubbles.
Removing tint bubbles is a tedious process. While not difficult, it is easy to make an error that will damage the window. To avoid this risk, make sure you have the right window tint product installed that will resist bubbling. Rayno’s window tint products are made with superior quality and will stand the test of time without bubbling. When installed properly, you should have no trouble with bubbling over the lifetime of your car. Contact a Rayno dealer to learn more about our quality window tint products.
