What to Expect From the Home Window Tinting Process

Are you considering home window tinting, but aren't sure how it works? Learn everything you need to know about the home window tinting process right here.

Around 25-30% of your heating loss and gain is through your windows. 

As a homeowner, that's not ideal. Home window tinting is an investment you may want to consider.



Before you hire someone to install tinting, you need to know what to expect. We are going to cover everything from pricing to types of film to pros and cons. Keep reading so you can decide if window tinting your home is the choice for you. 

Window Tinting Process

Window tinting is not particularly difficult to install. However, it's still not a project you should do alone.

Different temperatures can cause your windows to expand and shrink. That will need to be taken into consideration when you add the film.

A professional will know exactly what needs to be done it ensure the tinting lasts a long time. It's crucial that the film is cut correctly; getting a precise cut can be challenging.

You could in up spending extra money if you attempt to do it yourself and don't get the measurements right. If you attempt to do it yourself, you could end up with wrinkles or bubbles in the film. 

Types of Window Film

The type of window film you have installed is going to be based on your goals. If you're looking for privacy, there's a reflective or mirrored film that you can purchase. 

You can also get tinting that is made to reduce glare and block the sun's rays. You may want to get a decorative film such as a frosted, opaque, or even colored one. 

You may be eligible for a tax credit when you install window tinting, too. When you're filing your taxes, you'll want to include the IRS for 5695 and a copy of your invoice.

Pros and Cons

When you're trying to decide if you want to install home window tinting, you need to know the pros and cons. Tinting can help reduce your energy bill and keep your house cool in the summer months. Your HVAC system won't have to work as hard to heat up your house in the winter, either. 

The sun can also damage your furniture. Window tinting will protect your flooring and keep your furniture from fading.

It can also add a bit of security. Not only will it make it harder to see inside, but it will add a layer of protection to the glass. They will be less likely to break during a bad storm, and it will deter anyone trying to break in. 

Adding window tinting to your house could avoid your warranties. Many glass and window manufacturers won't cover the damage that is made when modifying them.

The warranty may not be a big deal to you, and it may be worth the risk, but it's still something you need to be aware of. If you live in an area that doesn't get much sunlight, window tinting could reduce the amount of natural light that comes in. 

Maintaining Home Window Tinting 

Your house window tinting can last a long time, even close to ten years. However, you'll need to take care of them properly. There are some cleaning solutions that have ingredients and chemicals that are damaging to the film. 

You'll want to wait about 30 days before cleaning them and avoid products with ammonia. Typically, mixing water with distilled vinegar is the best option.

You'll also want to use a soft cloth. The great thing about maintaining the window tinting it's not costly and doesn't require any extra work. 

Pricing

There are a few factors that will affect the price of your window tinting. The shape and size of the window are going to be the main determinate. Flat windows are much easier to tint, so if you have curved ones, it's possible it'll just cost a little more.

The bigger the windows are, the more film will be needed, thus increasing the price. If you want your sliding glass doors or bay windows, the cost will be more, too. 

The number and location of your windows matter. Windows that aren't on the ground level will require more equipment and more risk so that will change the price too. 

You should be aware that some companies have a minimum. The more windows you have, the cheaper it will be per window.

Higher-quality tinting will also be more expensive. The film itself can range from $2 to $100 per square foot, and the labor is usually around $7 per square foot. 

Finding A Company

When you're looking for a company to work with, there are a few things you can do. First, be sure to ask friends and family for recommendations. You should be looking at online reviews. 

Window Tinting Services 

Home improvement projects are always easy. They are a time and money commitment. Home window tinting is a great investment and can be done on a budget. 

It's crucial that you find a reputable company to do your tinting. It's best if it's done right the first time.

If you're considering window tinting for your residence, reach out to Custom Glass Tinting and contact us here. We can give you a free quote and answer any questions you may have.