How Long Does Auto Window Tint Normally Last?

Breaking Down the Auto Window Tint Lifespan

First, let's talk briefly about how auto window tinting works. In order to tint your car's windows, we apply a laminate film in the appropriate shade, size, and color to your car's windows. These can be applied to any of your windows, including your windshield and side windows. 

In other words, the tint on a car window is its own component. It is not part of the glass or permanently fused to the glass. Over time, this laminate film can start to break down in various ways.

The lifespan of your auto window tint will depend on the material used. Common types of window tint include:

• Standard film
• Metal film
• Ceramic film
• High-grade polyester film

Standard film is the cheapest material, which can seem appealing when you're paying to have your windows tinted. However, Enterprise Window Tinting offers ceramic and metal films for a reason.



Standard film tends to last roughly five years before it needs to be removed. Ceramic and metal films, on the other hand, can last up to ten years as long as you practice regular maintenance. Standard film may be cheaper from the get-go, but you'll end up paying a lot more to replace it every five years. 

Tips and Tricks to Preserve and Maintain Your Auto Window Tinting

As we mentioned earlier, the best way to get the full ten years out of your auto window tinting is to practice basic care and maintenance. Fortunately, none of these steps are difficult or costly. Not exercising care, on the other hand, will certainly lower the lifespan of your auto window tinting. 



Let's break down some of the steps you can take to keep your auto window tinting in top-notch condition.

Auto Window Tinting Care After Application

After your window tinting application is applied, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind for the next three-four days. Exercising proper care in these first few days can make a huge difference in the overall lifespan of your auto window tinting.

First, keep your car windows rolled up during this timespan. The film needs time to settle into place, and opening and closing your windows can cause the film to loosen around the edges.

Second, wait a few days before washing your car manually or taking it to a car wash. The tint needs time to dry, which can take about 24 hours. After the first day has passed, you can use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away debris and resume normal washing after two to three days.



Finally, if you notice any issues off the bat, take your car back to us so we can address the issue. Every once in a while, newly applied tint can start to bubble not long after application. Leave it to us to fix the issue!

Long Term Tips to Maintain Your Car Window Tint

When it comes to long-term care for your tinted windows, you're going to want to pay attention to the way you're cleaning your car. There are special cleaning solutions you may want to start using to avoid damaging the tinting.

To properly clean your tinted windows, begin by wiping away dirt and grime with a soft cloth. That way, you gently remove any abrasive materials before applying moisture and scrubbing down the car.



Then, spray the windows with the right cleaning solution and use another cloth to wipe away any smudges. Once you are finished, dry the windows as best as you can. 

What to Avoid When Taking Care of Your Tinted Windows

Finally, let's take a look at the things you want to avoid doing once your windows are tinted.

When you are selecting a cleaning solution for your windows, we do recommend using one that is specially made for your window tinting material. That being said, it is most important that you avoid any solutions that are acidic or solutions that contain ammonia. These kinds of cleaning solutions can permanently damage your tint.



In addition, try to avoid scratching your tinted windows with sharp objects. Even when you're cleaning them, avoid using any scrubbing tools made from abrasive materials. When you are loading things in and out of your car, do your best to avoid hitting the windows with sharp objects or edges. 

Come to Enterprise Window Tinting for Your Window Tint Needs

If you are on the fence about auto window tinting, we are here to let you know that tinting your car windows comes with tons of unbeatable benefits. At Enterprise Window Tinting, we also use the highest quality laminate films to ensure that your auto window tinting lasts for years to come. With our products, services, and maintenance tips, you can get the most out of your tinted windows.

Ready to schedule your appointment with Enterprise Window Tinting? Contact us today and we'll get you set up right away!