3M™ Window Tint Is Durable, But Requires Special Care
3M™ window tint is a smart investment if you’re looking to lower your energy bills, improve your curb appeal, or simply feel more secure and comfortable in your home or office.
But just like anything else, it ages and will eventually need replacing – up to a decade later, if you care for it properly.
Follow our tips for extending the life of your commercial or residential window film so you get the most out of your newly-installed window film from Energy Solutions, an authorized 3M™ dealer serving New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania.
Allow Time for Curing
Window tinting for homes and commercial buildings needs time to cure and fully adhere to the glass. In perfect weather, a very thin window tint film will cure in about a week after professional installation by Energy Solutions.
However, thicker films, like window security film, or any film installed when the weather outside is cloudy and cold, curing time may take as much as 60 days. Ask your installer how long it will take in your situation.
As you wait for your window tint film to cure, you may notice a small amount of installation fluid trapped between the glass and the film. This can create a temporary cloudy appearance or bubbles. However, once the film has fully cured, both of these will disappear.
When Should I Clean Window Tint Film?
Keep your view to the outdoors looking pristine by cleaning your tinted windows as needed. Proper cleaning practices will ensure your 3M™ window tint’s longevity.
First of all, your window film should be fully cured before you attempt to clean it. We like to advise our clients to wait at least 30 days before the first window cleaning to ensure the window tint film is fully adhered to the glass. Wiping and drying can cause uncured film to shift out of place.
When it’s time to clean your windows in the warmer months, do it first thing in the morning or in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Heat can warm up the film and make it more susceptible to damage. We love 3M™ window tint because it is very durable, but remember that it isn’t damage-proof. You still will need to take steps to protect it.
How Should I Clean The Tinted Windows in My Home or Office?
You shouldn’t have to alter your cleaning technique very much after Energy Solutions installs tint in your home or business. You do, however, need to be careful about the type of cleaning product you’re using.
Ammonia-based window cleaners (yes, the blue brand-name you’re thinking of) can cause deterioration. Specialized window cleaners made for window tint film are a better choice to protect your investment, or you can make your own by mixing ½ ounce of liquid dish soap with one quart of fresh water.
Pair this cleaner with a microfiber towel – never a paper towel, cotton cloth, scrubbing sponges, or bristle brushes – and you’ll get a streak-free finish that won’t scratch up your window film. After you’ve applied the window cleanser, wipe down with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
Keep Indoor Decor Away from the Window
Window tinting for homes and businesses is applied to the inside of the glass, to keep it away from the outdoor elements. Indoor elements can still cause damage to your tint, however.
To prevent scratches or other blemishes, keep all your interior decor, including plants, away from the window – far enough that no stray limb or part can come into contact with it.
Although window tint film is very durable, in particular the window security film products we carry, it can still sustain damage.
Ask Our Window Tint Film Experts
If you want to be sure that you aren’t accidentally damaging your 3M™ window tint, talk to one of the pros at Energy Solutions for advice on cleaning products. We’re always happy to help, when we’re not all over the tri-state area, tinting windows near you.
Schedule Window Tinting Today
Tell us about your goals for your home or commercial building, and the Energy Solutions team will develop a custom quote with high-quality 3M window tint to meet your needs. We can even help you choose the best window tint films before booking an installation date that works with your schedule.
We’ll install it, rain or shine, so you can quickly gain privacy and protection. Request a consultation with our team to get started.
