Can You Tint Over Aftermarket Tint?
If you are a car owner, you may have considered tinting your car windows for various reasons such as privacy, protection from the sun's harmful UV rays, and a stylish appearance. However, you may have also wondered if you can tint over aftermarket tint. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide you with useful information to make an informed decision about tinting your car windows.
What is Aftermarket Tint?
Before we dive into the answer to the main question, let's first understand what aftermarket tint is. Aftermarket tint refers to the tint film that is applied to the car windows after the car has been manufactured. This can be done by a professional tinting service or by the car owner themselves using a DIY tinting kit.
Is Tinting Over Aftermarket Tint Possible?
The short answer is, yes, it is possible to tint over aftermarket tint. However, it is not recommended to do so as it can lead to certain issues that can compromise the quality and effectiveness of the tint.
Issues With Tinting Over Aftermarket Tint
One of the main issues with tinting over aftermarket tint is the potential for the tint to bubble or peel. This is because the new tint film may not adhere properly to the old tint film, causing air pockets to form between the two layers. This can not only look unsightly but can also compromise the functionality of the tint as the air pockets can block out the sun's rays and reduce the effectiveness of the tint.
Another issue with tinting over aftermarket tint is the risk of the tint becoming too dark. Most states have laws regulating the darkness of car window tint, and if the tint is too dark, you may be fined or forced to remove it. Tinting over already dark aftermarket tint can increase the darkness level, leading to potential legal issues.
What Should You Do Instead?
If you have aftermarket tint on your car windows and want to add another layer of tint, it is recommended that you remove the old tint first. This can be done by a professional tinting service or by using a tint removal solution and a razor blade. Once the old tint has been removed, you can then apply the new tint film to the bare window.
Benefits of Removing Old Tint
Removing the old tint before applying a new layer can have several benefits. Firstly, it ensures that the new tint film adheres properly to the window, reducing the risk of bubbling or peeling. Secondly, it allows you to choose the darkness level of the new tint film without the risk of exceeding legal limits. Lastly, removing the old tint can give your car windows a fresh start, making them look and perform better.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it is technically possible to tint over aftermarket tint, it is not recommended due to the potential issues it can cause. Instead, it is recommended that you remove the old tint first before applying a new layer. This will ensure that your car windows look great, perform well, and comply with legal regulations.
FAQs
Q. Can you tint over factory tint?
A. It is not recommended to tint over factory tint as it can lead to bubbling, peeling, and reduced effectiveness of the tint. It is recommended to remove the factory tint first before applying a new layer.
Q. How much does it cost to remove tint from car windows?
A. The cost of tint removal can vary depending on the tinting service and location. On average, it can cost anywhere from $50 to $250 per window.
Q. Can you remove tint yourself?
A. Yes, it is possible to remove tint yourself using a tint removal solution and a razor blade. However, it can be a time-consuming and challenging process, and it is recommended to have it done by a professional tinting service.