What is VLT?
This stands for visible light transmission. This means that after the film has been applied to your windows, the VLT percentage is the amount of light that the film will allow to transmit through the glass. The lower the VLT, the darker the film.
Do you carry one-way mirror tint?
We carry films that are highly reflective on the outside, yet less so on the inside to reduce glare. They work just like a pair of mirrored sunglasses, which means that for the most part, during the day, anyone looking in the window will see their own reflection instead of seeing through the window. There are no films, however, that can completely block people from seeing through a window when the light inside is greater than the light outside. So at night, people will be able to see in, even if the visible light transmission is very low.
What is the darkest shade of film I can use on my car windows?
You can use as dark a film as your local or state law allows. We recommend that you click on our State Law Chart, to find out the legal limits in your area. If you have poor night vision, we recommend that you choose a medium or light film to see out easier at night.
Why are there separate films for residential and automotive? Isn’t it all the same?
There are two main factors which separate residential films from automotive films. The first is adhesive. Most of our residential films have a water-activated adhesive, which means it is not sticky to the touch, and you use the mounting solution to activate it during installation. The automotive adhesive is sticky to the touch, making it more aggressive for automotive applications. The second factor is the functionality and construction of the product. All of our films are constructed for optimal performance for what they are intended to be used for. We do not recommend that you mix and match films (i.e., automotive film on residential or vice versa).
How long does it take for the film to dry?
Cold weather and humid conditions can lengthen the dry-out time, while warm, sunny weather will speed it up. Dry-out times can vary from a few days to as long as six months, but the film will eventually dry completely. Moisture that is trapped during the installation process can cause bubbles or a slightly cloudy appearance. This is normal. Do not try to pierce or cut the film in an attempt to drain the trapped moisture. This will damage the film. Just be patient and allow the film to dry completely on its own.
How soon can I clean my windows after installing window tinting?
Do not clean the film for 30 days following installation. This allows the film to adhere securely to the window. When you do clean your windows, make sure to use mild cleaning solution and fresh, clean, soft materials. To avoid scratching the film, do not use abrasive cleaning materials, bristle brushes, or cloth that contains dirt particles. Even some paper towels are rough enough to scratch your film, causing a dull finish over time.
How will tinting affect my plants?
Tinting will reduce the amount of light available to your plants, so variegated or light-green plants should be considered when choosing your tint shade. Most tropical plants require less light and heat than clear windows provide, and may even benefit from the added sun protection. Less light, however, will slow their growth. Some plants may go into shock while adjusting to the new lighting conditions. If this continues for longer than a week, we recommend that you move the plant to a location where it will receive more light.
Will tinting my windows keep my furniture from fading?
Window film will not completely eliminate fading, but installing it is one of the best things you can do to block the factors that cause it. Window film blocks 99% of UV rays, which are responsible for about 40% of the fading equation. Heat makes up about 25%, visible light about 25%, and miscellaneous factors bring home the final 10%. Short of keeping your home furnishings in darkness, window film is your best defense against fading.
My window film looks foggy and cloudy. What is wrong?
The residential and commercial window film has a water activated adhesive system on the side that attaches to the glass. When you use the mounting application solution as required to do the installation, the adhesive is activated by the soapy water solution. Once the installation is completed, it is common for the adhesive to get a foggy or cloudy appearance to it. This is due to the solution activating the adhesive. This process can take from 1 day to 30 days depending on the amount of heat that is hitting the window from the sun. Once the solution has dried out, the foggy and cloudy look will go away. When the fog has completely cleared, you will know that the film has fully cured on the window and can be cleaned.