There are many different window films on the market and some do not perform as well as others. Window film will begin to deteriorate by being exposed to high temperatures (IR rays) and UV rays over an extended period of years. Low quality films fail at a much faster rate.
There are several types of window film failures. These are the most predominate issues:
Discoloration:
The yellow colorants in dye based films begin to breakdown turning the film purple or fading out completely. When discoloration begins to occur it accelerates the deterioration of the film (solar rays will attack the molecular structure of the film/plastic).
Bubbling:
Happens when a chemical reaction with the adhesive causes oxidation to occur. There are many reasons for this oxidation to occur, from low quality adhesives to sub-standard film application. Window film being exposed for an extended period of time to the sun and its harsh UV rays, heat (IR rays) and visible light can initiate a chemical reaction. High quality films such as Solar Gard films combined with professional installation will minimize this chemical reaction from occurring (hence the reason you get a lifetime warranty with Solar Gard films).
Delamination:
Delamination can occur in long streaks across the middle of the film or start on the edges moving inward. This usually happens in multi-layer poorly manufactured films. Again since window film is applied to a glass pane that receives direct sunlight, the solar energy over time will cause film to breakdown. Using a high end film such as Solar Gard window films, will avoid you from having this issue.
Peeling:
Poor quality adhesive or incorrect film application can cause window film to start peeling. Sometimes this can be repairable but most often it needs replacement.
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How is high quality window film & adhesive removed:
- The process of removing window film will depend upon the quality of the film & adhesive originally used, the amount of direct sunlight exposure, and the length of time the film has been applied.
- Under normal circumstances we remove high quality film such as Solar Gard films by starting in one corner and peeling back at the correct angle to the glass to minimize adhesive on the glass. Having an experienced professional to remove window film is highly recommended since they can handle the various situation that might be encountered.
- If adhesive remains on the glass it can be removed with a special razer blade that won't scratch the glass. Sometimes an adhesive removal solvent might be required.
- After the film and adhesive have been properly removed you will need to thoroughly clean the glass surface before a new film application. Inappropriate adhesive removal can cause the new application to have contaminants which can cause poor aesthetics or premature bubbling of the new film.
How is aged & low quality window films and adhesives removed:
- The process of removing old & baked-on window film will depend upon the quality of the film & adhesive used, the amount of direct sunlight exposure and the length of time the film has been applied.
- Low quality window films & adhesives will bake itself to the glass, penetrating the pores on the surface of the glass causing it to be extremely difficult and time consuming for proper removal. The longer the film has been on the windows and exposed to direct sunlight, UV rays and heat (IR rays) will determine how much work is required for removal.
- Low quality film can delaminate causing a layer of film to remain attached to the adhesive and subsequently to the glass. This layer of film will continue to protect the adhesive that is baked to the glass surface. When this happens a stainless steel blade designed for this purpose will be used for removing film and adhesive from the glass. This process is time consuming and tedious.
How is aged & low quality window films and adhesives removed:
- The process of removing old & baked-on window film will depend upon the quality of the film & adhesive used, the amount of direct sunlight exposure and the length of time the film has been applied.
- Low quality window films & adhesives will bake itself to the glass, penetrating the pores on the surface of the glass causing it to be extremely difficult and time consuming for proper removal. The longer the film has been on the windows and exposed to direct sunlight, UV rays and heat (IR rays) will determine how much work is required for removal.
- Low quality film can delaminate causing a layer of film to remain attached to the adhesive and subsequently to the glass. This layer of film will continue to protect the adhesive that is baked to the glass surface. When this happens a stainless steel blade designed for this purpose will be used for removing film and adhesive from the glass. This process is time consuming and tedious.
Additional tools that can be utilized for removing old film & adhesives. Most professional window tinting companies have these available when needed:
- Industrial steamer – this helps soften and breakdown old adhesive when steaming directly to the adhesive under the film.
- Heat gun – Sometimes this will help soften film and old adhesive, caution should be taken to avoid overheating the glass. If not used properly it will cause premature seal failure and/or glass breakage.
- Special glue softening chemicals (solvents) can be used if the film has been fully removed and only adhesive remains on glass surface.
Susan Corcoran
5 days ago
Extremely happy with our new window tint in our home! From the beginning to the completion of the project, we were kept informed every step of the process. Jon came out and discussed the features and benefits of window tint and the warranty protection and helped us determine what options we could select for our different windows. He then measured all the windows we selected. We were able to schedule installation quickly and the two installers were very good and worked efficiently. They actually measured our windows a second time to ensure the product was accurate for the job. We are enjoying our home so much more since the glare is gone. Our sunroom stays so much cooler as well! We are thrilled that we don’t need to close our blinds anymore to keep the sun out and are enjoying the increased privacy. We are incredibly pleased with the work and the product and so happy that we decided use A1 Window Tinting and have already recommended them to our neighbors!
Heather F
6 days ago
Best place in the KC area. Just had my 5th vehicle done and once again they didn’t disappoint. I traveled up from Houston, TX and will continue to travel up any time I need a vehicle done.
Carrie Click
6 days ago
Did window tint on 2 of my vehicles. Did a wonderful job. Very professional. I will be bringing back my next vehicles.
Chris Mann
1 week ago
Had a great experience with A1 Window Tint getting my 2023 Tesla Model Y tinted. I worked with Michael, and from the initial phone conversation through the appointment, everything was straightforward and professional.
When I arrived, Michael was working in the back but came right up to greet me and went over everything we had discussed on the phone, including the original price quote. They also have a wall display that lets you actually see the different tint products and percentages, which was extremely helpful. I originally planned on going with what we had discussed over the phone, but after seeing the different options in person, I decided I wanted to go darker.
I ended up going with Vortex IR ceramic tint on the driver and passenger windows, matched to the factory privacy glass on the rear of the Model Y. I also went with 55% Vortex IR ceramic on the entire front windshield. I’m really happy I went with the 55% — it gives the windshield a darker, cleaner look without feeling overly dark.
Another big plus is that the Vortex IR ceramic tint I chose comes with a lifetime warranty. They recommended giving the tint about 3–5 days before washing the windows or rolling them down, and I followed those instructions. I had absolutely no issues during that period or afterward, and everything cured perfectly.
The finished product looks great. The front windows match the factory rear glass really well, the windshield came out exactly how I wanted it, and the whole car has a much cleaner look now.
5/5 experience and I would definitely recommend A1 Window Tint. If you have a Tesla Model Y and are looking for a shop that knows how to make it look right, I’d absolutely recommend giving them a call.
When I arrived, Michael was working in the back but came right up to greet me and went over everything we had discussed on the phone, including the original price quote. They also have a wall display that lets you actually see the different tint products and percentages, which was extremely helpful. I originally planned on going with what we had discussed over the phone, but after seeing the different options in person, I decided I wanted to go darker.
I ended up going with Vortex IR ceramic tint on the driver and passenger windows, matched to the factory privacy glass on the rear of the Model Y. I also went with 55% Vortex IR ceramic on the entire front windshield. I’m really happy I went with the 55% — it gives the windshield a darker, cleaner look without feeling overly dark.
Another big plus is that the Vortex IR ceramic tint I chose comes with a lifetime warranty. They recommended giving the tint about 3–5 days before washing the windows or rolling them down, and I followed those instructions. I had absolutely no issues during that period or afterward, and everything cured perfectly.
The finished product looks great. The front windows match the factory rear glass really well, the windshield came out exactly how I wanted it, and the whole car has a much cleaner look now.
5/5 experience and I would definitely recommend A1 Window Tint. If you have a Tesla Model Y and are looking for a shop that knows how to make it look right, I’d absolutely recommend giving them a call.
steve moore
1 week ago
Sarah Myers
1 week ago
They were fast, polite and did a great job. Thanks!
Lisa Vail
1 week ago
I was impressed from the initial estimate to the
Install. Timely, professional, and excellent installation appearance. To make it even
Better, I am amazed at the difference it makes. I am able to leave my large west facing blinds open in the afternoon hours to enjoy the daylight, without the extreme heat that I experienced prior to the installation. I have been able to manage my inside temperatures with my ceiling fans and leave the air conditioning off on days that I would previously have to run the air. I know that I will see a reduction in my electrical bill over the coming summer months.
I am so pleased, I have just placed a second order, applying the tinting to my three season patio windows.
Great product with amazing results!
Install. Timely, professional, and excellent installation appearance. To make it even
Better, I am amazed at the difference it makes. I am able to leave my large west facing blinds open in the afternoon hours to enjoy the daylight, without the extreme heat that I experienced prior to the installation. I have been able to manage my inside temperatures with my ceiling fans and leave the air conditioning off on days that I would previously have to run the air. I know that I will see a reduction in my electrical bill over the coming summer months.
I am so pleased, I have just placed a second order, applying the tinting to my three season patio windows.
Great product with amazing results!
Linda Haney
1 week ago
Second time using A1 Window Tinting. Still the same great service - fast, efficient, and friendly. They take the time to explain all the options for your window tint. Exactly what I needed at a great price.
Tyler Freeman, PhD
2 weeks ago
A+ for A1! Had auto windows tinted. Guys were friendly and explained differences between products. The work was completed very quickly. I'm a little nitpicky and when I saw an imperfection in the tint cut line (it's cut by computers so no fault of A1) they happily redid that spot in just a few minutes. Will go back for any future tinting needs.
P Rhudy
2 weeks ago
Thank you for taking care of our 2025 Mustang Mach E. The ceramic tint looks fantastic
Sedrick Cook
2 weeks ago
There is a reason this is the 3rd vehicle they have done for us. Great communication. They are upfront with everything. Great prices and fast service. HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Laura Keal
2 weeks ago
A1 did a fantastic job. They gave me a quote, showed up on time, and expertly applied the Wing Safe dots. No more bird strikes!
Trenton Moore
3 weeks ago
Great job with the tint. Great job with the customer service. Will get my next cars windows tinted here.
Mike Duncan
3 weeks ago
Every step of the buying and installing home window tinting was smooth. They are focused on assuring customers are satisfied.
Dan Tiehen
3 weeks ago
They did a great job.
Joseph Hernandez
3 weeks ago
Easy to setup an appointment. Got my car in the following week. Demonstrated the different tint materials which was helpful when making my decision. Very good customer service and they did a great job. My car looks great and it made a difference in temperature.
Brent
4 weeks ago
Taken 5 cars there for tint. Never dussapointed.
Roy Forsythe
2 months ago
The technician showed up on time and did a beautiful job installing the opaque film to 4 glass panels in our front door. The applied film lets plenty of light in but obscures anyone at the front door and gives us privacy.
Donnie Basore
3 months ago
These guys do awesome work!! They have done two of my vehicles and I’ve been impressed with their service and quick turn around. Highly recommend these guys!!
J T
3 months ago
I’ve had multiple vehicles tinted by A1and they’ve always done a great job. Their scheduling reminders are great! I have referred this company to friends and family, and they’ve all been satisfied.
Rose Robertson
6 months ago
A1 tinting did a great job on our new garage windows. They were here very quickly after my original call, and the price was very fair. The service man showed up on time, and he completed the project very quickly. I definitely recommend A1 Tinting!!
John K
1 year ago
I recently had my windows tinted at A-1 Window Tinting and, as always, they did a fantastic job. After leaving, I noticed the rear windows weren’t as dark as we had discussed. I called them, and without hesitation, they cleared the schedule to get me back in right away. Their professionalism and commitment to customer satisfaction are unmatched. This is the third vehicle I’ve brought to them over the years, and I continue to make the 45-minute drive because I simply won’t go anywhere else.
Highly recommended!
Highly recommended!
