Blog Post

Window Tint Bubbles — Types, Causes, and What To Do

Dec 22, 2022
If done right, window tinting can provide many benefits for your car. Not only does window tinting reduce heat, glare, and UV rays from entering, but it also enhances privacy and adds to the aesthetics of your vehicle.

However, not all window tint installations are created equal. Poorly applied window tints can result in unsightly bubbles and streaks, which not only hinder your view but also affect the overall look of your vehicle. Read on to understand window tint bubbles, their types, and their causes.

What are Window Tint Bubbles?

Window tint bubbles are visible distortions that occur when air, moisture, or debris is trapped between the window's glass and its tint film. The bubbles can form abnormally large bumps or small pockets of air, creating an unattractive appearance on your windows.

What Are the Types of Window Tint Bubbles?

Window tint bubbles vary depending on the cause, as follows.

Air Bubbles

Air bubbles are the most common type of window tint bubble, and they usually occur when air gets trapped between the glass pane and its film. These bubbles are mostly a sign of poor installation and can be easily fixed by re-tinting the window.

Moisture Bubbles

Moisture bubbles, on the other hand, are more serious. The bubbles signify moisture, but fortunately the moisture can evaporate, so the bubbles should disappear within a few days.

Inferior Film Quality

Inferior film quality can also cause window tint bubbles. Low-quality films are more likely to develop bubbles, as they tend to be thinner and more prone to damage. The adhesive may also melt, which increases the chances of bubble formation.

Dirt or Debris

If dirt gets trapped between the glass and film, the debris can affect the aesthetics of the window and cause bubbles. This issue is mainly a result of insufficient glass cleaning before tint installation.

How Do You Prevent Window Tint Bubbles?

As mentioned earlier, window tint bubbles are primarily a result of poor installation. As such, the best way to prevent these bubbles is by hiring an experienced, certified installer to tint your windows.

Professional installers have the right tools and techniques to ensure that your window tints are properly installed. Additionally, the expert will clean the glass thoroughly, removing any dirt or debris that could interfere with the installation process.

Most importantly, invest in quality window tints. Such films are designed to last longer and resist damage such as bubbles, fading, or peeling. In addition, high-quality window tints look better and provide more protection against UV rays and heat.

Again, a professional can differentiate between quality and low-quality films, helping you pick the right option for your windows.

What to Do If You Already Have Window Tint Bubbles?

If you already have window tint bubbles, the best thing to do is contact a professional installer. Experienced installers can often fix the issue without re-tinting the entire window. Don't attempt to remove the film if you lack the experience and tools, as this could cause further damage.

A specialist will assess the problem, identify the cause, and recommend a suitable solution. If bubbles keep reappearing, this could mean an underlying issue with the window's glass or film. In such cases, you may need to invest in new tints or replace the entire window.

You can trust us at Affiliated Auto Glass to provide quality window tints and expert installation. Our certified installers have the knowledge and skills to install window tints, leaving no room for errors. We also use high-grade window films and the latest tools to ensure that your windows are properly tinted, and we will advise you on how best to take care of your windows. Contact us today for a quote.
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