Window tints are becoming increasingly popular with each passing day. While some people get auto glass tinting for visual appeal, others prefer privacy. At the same time, window tints also come with a lifespan. After a few years, they will fade and will probably be covered with scratches. Therefore, to install a new window tint, you will have to remove the existing one. So, let’s discuss the process of removing an old car window tint in detail so that you avoid any risks of damaging your windows.

Removing Window Tint Using Heat Gun Or Hair Dryer

The first effective method of removing an old car window tint is by using a heat gun or hair dryer. Even though it can make the process a lot easier, but you should expect some struggle as the current window tint will take some time and effort to come off. To begin, you should first pick a corner from where you will start peeling off the film.

Hold the hair dryer or heat gun at least two inches away from the tint and let the glue melt. At the same time, you should slowly and carefully begin peeling the tint. Make sure that the heat gun or hair dryer is aimed with the right angle allowing slow peeling.

At the same time, grab a microfiber towel and clean the adhesive as you go along. Once the adhesive has been removed, use a glass cleaner to remove any contaminants.

Steam Cleaning

Using a fabric steamer is perhaps the best way to remove an old car window tint. Steaming for a few minutes will melt the adhesive and the tint will come right off. One big advantage of using this machine is that you can also clean your car’s upholstery. Once you have removed the tint, you need to clean the car windows using a glass cleaner.

Solar Peel

Even though this method is comparatively less popular than others but is surely an effective one as well. For this process, you are going to need a spray bottle of ammonia, a spray bottle of soapy water, a tarp, and two black plastic garbage bags that are cut to the window shapes.

Next, you need to cover the window with one of the bags and spray using soap water to the outside of the window. However, make sure that you cover and protect the interior with the tarp. Then, from the inside, spray ammonia while wearing a protective mask and place a plastic bag before the ammonia can dry.

Allow the bags to rest for around 20 minutes in the sun before removing them. Pick a corner and begin gently peeling the film while spritzing with Ammonia since it needs to be kept moist. Finally, remove the remnants using a non-metallic scraper and a glass cleaner to clean the windows.

Taking Off Window Tints Using Scraping Methods

Your existing window tint can also be removed using several scraping methods but keep in mind that you run the risk of scratching your windows as the process requires using sharp objects. To be on the safe side, we suggest using non-metallic scrapers that work best on plastic windows.

The professionals might use a knife or sharp blade but they are trained and have enough experience to pull off such tasks. If you are doing it on your own, be very careful and hold the blade at an angle that does not damage or scratch the windows.

Using Old Newspapers

You might have not heard about this method but it is tried and tested. You can use old newspapers to remove your existing window tints as well. Simply soak the window tint in hot soapy water and cover it using a newspaper for at least 20 minutes. Then, let the newspaper rest in the sun for at least an hour with regular soaking every 20 minutes.

Then, you should begin removing the newspaper using long strokes. If the tint does not come off, you can soak the film for another half hour.

Final Word

Concluding, the above-mentioned techniques will help you remove the existing window tint with ease. If you find that process is complicated or you want to install new tints after removing these, go to an auto tint shop Springfield to prevent the risk of scratching your windows. Otherwise, it can lead to permanent damage that affects the visual appeal of the vehicle.