How to Clean & Maintain Decorative Window Film and Window Tint

How to Clean Window Film and Tint

Decorative window film and window tint enhances the look of your home or vehicle, and can help you save energy. It is also virtually maintenance free. These basics will help ensure your film lasts and looks as good as the day it was installed for years to come.

 After Installation: Curing Time

Allowing your window film to cure completely to the glass is very important. A small amount of the mounting solution will remain, even when it has been properly installed. This trapped liquid can create small water bubbles or a slightly cloudy look. This is normal and to be expected. Do not pierce any of these water bubbles during the curing time. These small bubbles and cloudy appearance will eventually dissipate. Cold and cloudy weather may lengthen the curing time of your window film, and thicker films often also require additional time. However, most films will be cured after a week.

How to Clean Your Window Film

Wait at least 30 days before cleaning your window film. This allows the film to completely cure and ensures the adhesive won’t be affected. You can clean your window the same way as before the film was installed. Simply spray the cleaning solution directly on the glass. We highly recommend using an ammonia free solution, such as Sprayway Glass Cleaner, to avoid any damage to your film.

Next use a clean, soft cloth or paper towel to wipe the glass. Some paper towels are coarse enough to lightly scratch your window film. These scratches are often too small to notice at first, but will damage the appearance over time. Use soft, high-quality paper towels to avoid this. Wipe up any excess moisture or debris from along the edges of the windows when you have finished. This extra water will seep behind the film and break down the adhesive if left on the edges.

Cleaning Solutions Safe for Window Film

You can use many basic household cleaning solutions to clean your window film after installation. Dish soap or any ammonia free window cleaner will work. Do not use any ammonia based glass cleaners, since they will cause the adhesive to break down over time. You should also avoid any abrasive cleaning solutions, such as baking soda. Also, do not use any sharp instruments that may cut or gouge the film. You should avoid using bristle brushes, abrasive sponges, and course paper towels.