Paint protection and window tinting films are a great option when you want to protect your vehicle from UV rays and other environmental hazards. While these films are already durable and long-lasting, you can extend their life and maintain their appearance by properly cleaning and caring for them. Additionally, you can get the best performance from your films when choosing a top brand like Vessolar. After you’ve added auto window film to your vehicle, you should know how to care for it. Thus, you’ll be able to make the most of your investment. Learn more about the best ways to maintain your window tint film below:
1. Wait to Clean Your Windows and Keep Your Windows Rolled Up
For the first few days after auto window tint installation, you’ll need to hold off on washing your car. Since the film takes time to cure, it is best to avoid cleaning it until the process is complete. The curing process can take a few days, so you’ll want to check with your film manufacturer about how long you should wait for that particular product.
Also, it’s important to keep your windows rolled up for the first two to four days, as the film takes some time to cure on the glass. Rolling down the window may cause the tint to peel. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for when it’s safe to roll down your windows.
2. Clean Your Windows Properly
Once you’ve given your window tint enough time to properly adhere to the glass, you’ll want to clean your windows. Knowing how to clean windows with tinted film can help you extend their life and keep your film looking its best. Cleaning them regularly can ensure contaminants don’t build up and harm your film.
When it’s time to clean your windows, you should follow these steps:
- Spray warm soapy water or a suitable cleaner on the windows.
- Wipe the cleaner off with soft cotton or microfiber cloth.
- Spray the glass again, then run a rubber squeegee over the glass surface until the window is dry.
- Use a towel to wipe off any residual cleaner from the edge of the window.
3. Use the Right Cleaning Products
If you need to use cleaning products to remove debris, you should avoid anything that contains harsh chemicals or ammonia. Instead, your best bet will be warm water and soap, as it’s gentler but still effective. If your window is extra dirty, choose a cleaner approved for cleaning ceramic window tint.
Other than that, there are also some other tips to protect and take care of your auto window film well:
- Take immediate action on certain debris such as tree sap, bird droppings and bug spatter which may get on your car sometimes. These contaminants are particularly damaging to auto window film, so you must wash them off as soon as you spot them.
- Avoid using a pressure washer to spray the film edges directly. The jet of water can lift the edges, so keep an appropriate distance from your vehicle. This trick will preserve the film’s integrity.
- Wash your vehicle by hand but never go to an automatic car wash to clean your vehicle, as their machines will eventually scratch your car or create swirl marks on it. Instead, hand wash your vehicle, rinsing it thoroughly before using a high-quality wash media and a car wash product compatible with the film.
- Never wipe dry film: Always moisturize your coating or film before wiping it with a cloth or another cleaning tool to avoid damage.
- Be gentle when cleaning and washing your car, gently wipe away debris or grime. Additionally, you should avoid using harsh chemicals to remove contaminants, as products with these ingredients can damage the film.
