I have a few questions about window tinting. First is it installed on the inside or outside of the window? Does it decay/depreciate easily? Also how much should I expect to pay? Obviously this depends on the quality and darkness (I want around 27% so fairly dark) and what not Im just looking fo a ballpark estimate. Also Ive heard that some cleaners can deteriorate it. Is this true?

 

1. installed on the inside

2. IMPORTANT!!! install moleskin from tintprotector.com BEFORE you add tint

3. anywhere from $120-$300 depending on tint quality and vendor, best bet is get the tint with the lifetime warrenty

4. 27% is good but i used 20% all around and have not had a single problem

5. Invisble Glass cleaner i have found does not harm my tint but with any chemical it is best to test somewhere that not many people notice and see if it harms anything

6. DO NOT use windex or other normal cleaners, it will turn the tint purple or make it bubble

7. Normally tint will last for years if it is a good quality tint and the installer does the job the right way the first time, and if they have to remove the rear window tint make sure they steam the old tint off and not just scrape it off, or else you can kiss your rear defrost good bye

 

To add to the post above, don't use ammoniated cleaners in particular. The ammonia will break down the adhesive and cloud the film.

 

Good information.

What's the moleskin for?

 

Don't mean to be an a**hole but the "search" button is your friend. Do a search and 70 posts will come up on this subject .

 

only need these on movable windows.. prevents film scratching.

 

Get it done from a reputable installer that offers a warranty on the installation if you can.
I got mine done at a installer that has several chains down here in different parts of the city, and have a lifetime warranty on the install and the film itself. I have 15% all around (not legal in the majority of places), and it cost me about $170 plus taxes. Install took about 2 hours.

As mentioned above, do NOT use any cleaners with amonia or that are used to clean regular house windows or whatever, they will mess up your tints. Go to an auto store and buy window cleaner that says its safe for tinted windows (I use an Eagle spray for my windows).

 

to add to whats been said; price will totally depend on where you are located so where are you? also brand and quality of tint; not so much on shade. The non-metalized film will last you easily 5-7yrs and the newer extruded film (often called ceramic) is said to last much longer. The guy that taught me how to tint has had the non-metalized on his truck for 8-9 yrs now and no fading or anything.