Auto Window Tinting: How Long Does It Take To Tint Your Windows

The auto window tinting process is incredibly important but does not need to take too long. Here's a quick look at how long it takes.

Thanks to high temperatures and long sunny seasons, auto window tinting is a popular choice in Florida. Whether you just bought a new car or just relocated to Gainesville, you're probably thinking about tinting your car windows.

Auto window tinting can help keep your car cool and protect your skin and interior from UV rays. While you probably want to reap these rewards ASAP, you should probably think about your schedule first.

How long does it take to tint car windows? What should you expect in the first few days or weeks after you get your car windows tinted?



We're here to tell you everything you need to know before you schedule your auto window tinting appointment. Read on to learn how long the process will take. 

How Long Does Auto Window Tint Application Take?

The first step when you want auto window tinting is the application of the film. The application of window tint film can take between 30 minutes and a few hours, depending on various factors. Let's take a look at what those factors are. 

The Specifics of Your Car

The make and model of your car will impact the amount of time it takes to apply window tint film, as larger cars will take longer to complete. It will also make a difference if you're only getting the front windows tinted as opposed to all windows. If your car already has a layer of window tint film installed, it will add time to your appointment to remove the old film to make way for the new. 

Pre-Cut vs Custom-Cut

Many car windows meet a standard size and shape, which is to say that most sedan windows are the same size, most SUV windows are the same size, and so forth. In this case, you can often rely on pre-cut window film, which will shave some time off of the application process. A handful of cars, like the Kia Soul, have windows that are unusual in size and shape, and your window tint installer may need to take some extra time to custom-cut the film to create a perfect match.

DIY Application vs Professional

You can purchase auto window tint film and apply it yourself, but it's bound to take longer. Chances are, you don't have the tools and experience to make the process go by quickly. A professional, on the other hand, can get through the application in as little as 30 minutes and leave your car windows looking fantastic. 

How Long Does Auto Window Tint Curing Take?

Curing refers to the process of drying your auto window tint so that it is well-adhered to your car windows. While the application process is quick, the curing process can take much longer. The good news is that you can drive your car during this time, but you will want to be mindful that your window tint isn't completely dry yet. 

Now, let's take a look at the factors that can impact auto window tint curing.

The Type of Tint

There are different types of tints and, as you might expect, they take different amounts of time to cure. For example, polyester window tint can cure in as little as three to five days, although it often isn't as durable as other tints. Ceramic window tint can take up to ten weeks to cure, but it will also last longer, block more UV rays, and outperform polyester window tint.

The Climate

The climate can make a big difference when you're waiting for window tint film to cure. Warm, sunny days are great for curing window tint quickly. While rain isn't going to destroy your uncured window tint, it is going to prolong the curing process.

This is an important thing to keep in mind when you're tinting your auto windows in Gainesville's rainy season, which tends to peak in June. If possible, keep your car parked in a covered area, preferably a garage, if your window tint hasn't cured yet during the rainy season. 

How to Take Care of Your Auto Window Tint

Now that you have a sense of how long the total auto window tinting timeline can be, it's time to talk about a few tips that will make the process go smoothly. As we mentioned already, you can drive your car while the film is still curing, but there are a few dos and don'ts to consider.

Keep Your Windows Up

Until your window tint is cured, we urge you to keep your windows rolled up. Rolling the windows up and down when the curing process is incomplete can cause your window tint film to peel. At the very least, keep your windows rolled up for the first five days.

Wait a Month to Wash Your Windows

You may notice a slight haze on your windows in the first few days or weeks. Resist the urge to clean your windows to get rid of the haze, as this haze tends to indicate that the curing process isn't complete. Depending on your specific curing timeline, you may need to wait at least one month before washing your windows.

Go With Professional Installation

Not only can a professional provide a speedier application but they can also ensure that your tint is compliant with Florida law. On top of that, you'll get a high-quality film that is installed properly and will last for years. It's almost always cheaper to hire a professional than to attempt DIY installation. 

Schedule Your Auto Window Tinting in Gainesville 

Auto window tinting is a great choice when you're living in Florida. Now that you have a sense of what the timeline looks like, it's time to schedule your appointment.

Reach out to Custom Glass Tinting and  contact us to let us know what you have in mind for your car and we'll get your appointment on the books.