A tint can make your windows unique and stylish. And it can increase the privacy of your ride. But you need to consider how much it is allowed to darken the windows in your country or state. Otherwise, you will have to face some legal issues. You might have noticed that the newly-installed tint on your windows has been darker after a few days of installation. Does window tint get darker over time? Today, we are going to reveal to you the truth behind this doubt. Keep reading to know the reasons and many more things.
Factors that Affect Window Tint Darkening
Mainly, the window tint can get darker when the solvent of the adhesive dissolves over time. The solvent begins to stick to the window tightly since there is a chemical reaction between the glass and the tint. So, the original color of the tint increases.
The color change is directly affected by the type and the quality of the tint film. If the installer used a low-quality film, the color can be changed considerably.
On the other hand, the color of the window tint can fade too over time due to exposure to UV rays. Thus, you need to maintain the windows properly and get help from professionals whenever your car needs repair.
How do Different Types of Window Tint Respond to Darkening?
Simply, car window tint is a film that is made of treated polyester laminate. There are different types of window tints.
Ceramic window tint is highly resilient. It can be used in any season without a change. Therefore, it does not show a considerable change within the installation process as well.
Another option is metallic window tint. They are safe and legal. In addition, they do not change their color easily; therefore, metallic tints are a bit pricy.
The carbon window tint has a dark color, but it can cover only 50% of infrared heat. However, it does not fade away quickly.
Dye-based window films have no such qualities, so their color can change when it cures. And also, the color can fade over time depending on its quality. If the tint has been exposed to a lot of heat, the dye may be turned into purple color as well.
If you use a lower tinting percentage, that means you will get darker windows because the light can only pass through slightly.
Does Window Tint Get Darker Over Time?
Yes, when the window tint is curing, it gets darker. But there is nothing to worry about the VLT percentage of the tint because it does not change. This is a result of curing the tint adhesive. However, the color change can be noticeable if you notice the color of your tint immediately after the installation.
Indeed, it is not a change of the tint; it is the adhesive that sets itself on the glass to stick the tint and react to the weather conditions.
You will see it as the tint gets darker. When the curing time is over, the tint will no longer become darker. Therefore, you will not be fined for darker windows. In contrast, it can be lightened over time due to various reasons, such as frequent exposure to the sunlight, so you have to use a tint that has UV protection.
But the change depends on the tint you used and how it was used. Sometimes, this incident can happen backward.
Darker tints can be light because of the heat of installing process. And you have to hire a professional window tint installer for this process to avoid issues such as air bubbles and wrinkles.
How to Maintain Window Tint Darkness?
You need to maintain window tint properly to avoid darkness or fading. First of all, you have to leave the vehicle for up to 4 days until the tint fully cures. Before curing, you should not wash the windows.
And when you clean the windows, you should not use cleaners with ammonia or such harmful chemicals. Always use mild cleaners that come from high-quality brands to protect the tint. And avoid any rough clothes or brushes to wipe and scrub the surface.
You can use a silicon brush or a microfiber towel. To avoid streaks, it is recommended to clean the windows in a shade because sunlight can dry the cleaning solvents fast.
It is necessary to dry the windows thoroughly after cleaning because water residue can cause the tint to lose its hold on the glass.
And it is vital to get a service from a professional tint installer because they use relevant tools and high-quality materials for the job. They will install the tint properly to prevent any discoloration issues.
Does Window Tint Darkening Affect Performance?
The discoloration of the window especially faded ones, can affect the performance of the tint in various ways.
A discolored tint is not able to properly reflect the heat. And its UV filters will no longer prevent harsh rays when there is a damaged tint. And a faded window tint does not fully protect your privacy.
If the window tint is too dark, you are not allowed to use the vehicle in public in some countries and states.
There are some specific laws for window tints, so ensure not to break those rules. And some insurance companies do not claim for such windows when it is damaged.
Does the Tint Get Darker After a Couple of Days?
In general, the window tint can take 5 to 7 days to fully cure. In fact, the time can vary depending on the weather condition at the moment you tint the windows.
If you tint the windows in the summer, they will cure within a short time, and vice versa. The moisture of the tint needs some heat and humidity to dry quickly. And if your car windows are larger, the tint takes more time to cure.
Always adhere to professionals’ advice; you should not drive the vehicle until the tint fully cure. And make sure to park the vehicle in a safe place.
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Video Credits – Sun Stoppers Inc
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