Frequently Asked Questions About Window Tint

What is window film?

Window film is a thin, multi-layered polyester material that incorporates the many different layers to control different properties, including Ultra-Violet (UV) light, heat, glare, and privacy. Window film comes in a variety of performance levels and shades.

What are the benefits of window film?

The many benefits of window film include eye comfort, UV protection, aesthetics, and increased safety, privacy, and energy savings.

What do the different levels of film mean?

 Film percentages stand for light transmission, or the amount of light that is allowed through the film. The lower the percentage, the darker the film.

How long does it take to tint my home/commercial building?

The amount of time it would take to tint your windows depends on the window size and volume. To get a better understanding of time frame, an average project ranges from 5-9 hrs to complete. However once the windows become larger than 6 feet tall or need ladders/scaffolds for access, it will increase the time to complete the project. If you know the window size and volume of windows, we can give you a time estimate over the phone.

What causes window film to turn purple?

The window film used by Dark Shade Tint has the technology to make film color stable, thus carrying a lifetime warranty that guarantees no color change. This means that our window films do not turn purple such as thin/economy films sold in low grade distribution shops. Please ask for our Lifetime Warranty to get more information.

Do you carry lifetime warranty window films?

The answer is YES! All of our films come with a lifetime warranty, meaning if they ever bubble, peel back or fade to another color, we will always replace the tint for FREE. Any film type or shade you choose will always will always be the highest quality for your project.

How long are your estimates valid for?

All commercial and residential window tinting estimates are valid for 6 months only. After 6 months, a new estimate will have to be provided for the original project.

What if my home or commercial building already has old film on the windows? Will it need to be removed before I have my windows tinted? (aka: Can I tint over tint?)

Old film will need to be removed before installation of new window film. It is always best to have the old film removed by a professional, as the windows can be easily damaged. There is an additional charge for removal of old film, and it will add a few more hours to the process. If the windows have old film that will require removal before installing new film, it is best to let us know before hand. 

Can window film increase safety and security?

Yes, window film adds a degree of shatter resistance to the glass areas of your home or building. These films bond to glass and help hold dangerous glass fragments in place, should breakage occur due to accident, natural disaster, or illegal entry.

Does blocking UV rays help prevent fading and deterioration?

Yes. The same sun that brightens a room’s interior can be detrimental to fabrics, furnishings, artwork, and rugs. Ultraviolet rays are the main cause of both fade and deterioration. Window films can screen out 99% of the damaging UV rays that can fade richly colored furniture, tapestries, and artwork. Heat and light also play a part in fading, but using window film to block nearly 100% of UV rays will increase the life of your personal property for years.

How does window film lower energy costs?

In summer, window film reflects the hot sun, reducing heat gain and lowering air conditioning costs. In winter, window film retains heat — up to 15% — to reduce heating costs. This year-after-year reduction in energy costs can yield an impressive return on investment. (Reduces about 8%-12% of total monthly electric bill on average)

Can window tint be installed on the outside of the window?

Yes, we use exterior window film specifically made for outside weather conditions. This film is great for windows that are not accessible from the inside. They still have great performance, heat reduction and privacy just like interior window films.