There is no doubt that the benefits of tinting your windows will last for years when installed properly. After the initial installation, bubbles can appear under the window film. To understand why, you need to be aware of the processes and industry standards for solar tinting.
Industry Standards
First of all it is recommended that any films are installed by a WFAANZ member.
Window Film Association Australia New Zealand or WFAANZ as it is more commonly known is an industry body operating within Australia and New Zealand as the name suggests and represents window film installers, manufacturers and suppliers.
They are a non-profit organisation which aims to set performance guidelines for members to assure quality performance. All WFAANZ members agree to adhere to industry standards, meaning your window film should be applied in the same safe and quality controlled manner every time.
When window tint is being applied, a thin layer of a water/soap solution is sprayed on the surface before applying the film. This layer allows the installer to manoeuvre the film to precisely fit the window and prevent air pockets and activate the adhesive to allow the film to adhere. The tinter then uses a squeegee to push the solution out.
You will not notice any bubbles directly after the installation. It is common for bubbles to appear a few days after installation. This is due to the molecules in the water reacting to the surface tension and grouping together. These bubbles will disappear however, how quickly depends on many factors:
- Thicker films have a slower rate of evaporation
- The internal temperature, air circulation and humidity
- Cold or overcast weather
- Little to no direct sunlight on the window
The important thing to note is not to touch or clean the tint. Trying to manually remove the bubbles yourself may result in damaging the tint, moving the tint entirely or scratching the film. The bubbles will get larger as the drying process begins however, over time they will get smaller and disappear.
That said, there are a few factors and things you can do to increase the drying time.
1. Temperature
Window tints will dry out quicker in warmer environments. This does not mean you need to wait until summer months to install your heat reducing tint. Getting a WFAANZ member to install your window tint during the winter months means your tint will be dry and ready to go when the heat comes. Simply turn the heat up when possible to increase the drying time.
2. Heat
In addition to temperature, heat pointed directly at the tinted window will increase the drying time. Be smart about positioning and sit any electric heaters at least 2 meters away from the tint to let the air reach the whole window.
3. Wind
A general wind will help with convective drying. Turning on ceiling fans in rooms with freshly tinted windows will encourage air circulation for a quicker drying time.
4. Humidity
More than a simple wind, a humidifier will dry out the air in the room allowing the moisture to be removed from the film quicker.
Conclusion
Although these are all ways to increase the drying period, you cannot eliminate the drying time completely. This means bubbles are inevitable with the drying time necessary for a beautiful finish to your windows. By having a WFAANZ member install your window tint, you’re ensuring the whole process of having your tint installed from the film itself to the final application, is all in alignment with industry standards.
Premier Tint is a proud member of WFAANZ and ensures all window tint applications meet industry standards. Our quality control and dedication to upholding industry standards makes our experienced team the best option to get your windows tinted. If you’re in need of a residential window tint, get yours installed during winter so your windows are dry and ready for summer.
