If your old window tint is bubbling, fading or peeling, it’s time to replace it. While removing and replacing tint may seem difficult, it’s actually quite easy with the right tools and a bit of know-how. It will take a little patience to remove the window tint of your house or car windows. If you’re searching for how to remove window tint without causing cracks or damage, this guide is for you.

What is window tint?

Window tints are also referred to as louver or window films which are thin films attached to a house, car or office windows. They are used mainly to intercept harmful rays and augment privacy. These films are available in various colours and shades.

Window tint is popular in Australia for reducing radiation from the sun. A professional installer can help you choose the right film for your windows and ensure proper installation.

Steps of Removing Window Tint 

Follow these steps to remove window tint properly and safely.

1. Gather the tools you’ll need

• Hair dryer or Heat gun
• Razor blade or utility knife
• Plastic scraper
• Spray bottle with soapy water
• Masking tape
• Black garbage bag

Additional safety equipment:

• Gloves
• Safety glasses
• Dust mask

2. Check the tint condition

If the tint is already weak, bubbling, or peeling, it will be easier to remove. To get rid of the tint easily you’ll need to soften the glue which holds on it. After knowing the condition of the tint it will be easier for you to choose the right way for removing a window tint.

3. Lose the tint

Use heat to loosen the tint, it will help you to easily peel off the tint. Use a hairdryer or a heat gun. Heat the window from 15 to 20 cm, and focus on the corner of the window, because in this way the edge of the tint will be easily removed. Continue heating for about 30 seconds, focusing on one section at a time.

4. Start peeling the tint

After heating and softening the tint, now remove the tint. Use a blade or knife, start from the corner of the window and start to remove the window tint at a 45-degree angle. Working from the corner, the tint should separate effortlessly. If the tint tears, heat it again and do the process again. 

5. Remove the residue from the window

After peeling off the tint some residue can be left in the window, so clean the residue with the help of soapy water. Spray the soapy water to the window then clean the debris with the help of a microfibre cloth or use a plastic scraper.

6. Clean the window glass

Clean the window glass thoroughly with the help of glass spray. Clean the glass completely. Avoid using abrasive materials or rough cloths, as they may scratch the glass. Clean with a soft cloth to avoid any scratches on the car. To keep from scratching, apply light pressure with a plastic brush on spots that won’t go away. After complete cleaning rinse with normal water and dry with a soft cloth.

Alternative methods for removing window tint

There are quite some methods for removing window tint. Here is the guide for you to use any method that is easy for yourself:

1. Ammonium Method

This method is quite effective and helpful for removing window tint. Use ammonia spray on the window’s inner side. Cover the ammonium-soaked area with a plastic bag to prevent evaporation, then release this area to direct exposure to sunlight. After some time the tint will have softened, then remove the window tint.

2. Steam Method

Use steam on the window in order to facilitate the removal of the tint. With that done, cautiously remove the tint from the window’s edges. Finally, to finish, rub off any remnants on the window.

These are two simple yet easy methods for you to remove window tint and avoid any damage to the window such as cracks, breaking of window glass and harm to the remover.

Safety Tips

Precautions which you must follow to avoid any problem:

1. Use gloves while using chemicals like ammonium for skin protection.

2. Use heat tools like a dryer from a distance.

3. Carefully use the scraper or knife

Mistakes you should avoid

1. Don’t peel off the window tint without heating it.

2. Avoid metal things in removing window tint.

3. Avoid peeling off the window tint all at once. Start with a small section to test the process, and then proceed step by step.

4. Don’t ignore safety precautions.

Conclusion

This article provides detailed instructions on how to remove window tint from your windows. You can do it at home but if you want to seek help then call a professional for help. This process is smooth and everybody can do this at home. Ensure you adhere to safety guidelines and steer clear of typical errors. This will help you remove the tint safely and efficiently.