Window Tinting
Frequently Asked Questions regarding Auto Tint Installations:
Q: Is window tinting done with some sort of spray?
A: No. After-market tints use a self-adhesive pressure-sensitive film carefully applied to the inside of the window.
Q: I've seen cars with mirrored tint and thought that would look cool on my car! Can you guys do this?
A: Mirrored after-market films are not currently legal in Ontario. For this reason and in the interest of our customer's safety we do not offer mirrored films for automotive applications. Keep in mind that if you do get this done somewhere that you may be forced to remove it which can be very difficult and costly not to mention that you could also receive a hefty fine as well! Mirrored films may not last very long compared to our Lumar™ automotive window tints which carry a Manufacturer's Lifetime Warranty.
Q: I've heard that I won't be able to roll down my windows for some time after an installation. Is this true?
A: Yes. Xtreme Inc. recommends that you do not roll down your windows for three to five days (depending on the season) from the time of installation so it is a good idea to plan ahead to accommodate for this. Window films generally take a few days to 'cure' properly and adhere to the window. Rolling down a window prematurely can lift the tint requiring you to bring the vehicle back to us so to reapply the film or possibly even replace it at an additional charge.
Q: How many and which windows get tinted? Do you tint the windshield too?
A: A typical tint installation includes all side windows and the rear window. The only tint that can be applied to a windshield is a sun-strip which covers up to 6 inches of the top of the windshield. Sun-strips can be applied as an option.
Q: Will my tint eventually turn purple and bubble like some vehicles I've seen on the road?
A: No! Xtreme Inc. uses Lumar ATR™ film on all of our installations. This film is resistant to peeling, bubbling, colour degradation, and fading. Be aware that some tinting shops use cheap dyed films which can be subject to the bubbling and general tint failure that you see on some vehicles. Our films are covered by a Manufacturer's Lifetime Warranty so you're covered!
Q: So how good is your warranty, really?
A: Our warranty is a manufacturer's warranty which means that if anything goes wrong with your tint it is covered anywhere in Canada! Of course, you would most likely bring it to us and we will happily fix it for you. For more info on tint warranties please feel free to contact us or come in for full details!
Q: My friend just had her car tinted and the film has a 'milky' look to it. Will it always look like that?
A: No. Window films usually take a few weeks to fully cure and may have a milky look until then.
Q: On close inspection I've seen small bubbles or particles in a friend's newly installed window tint. Is this normal.
A: A certain amount of small bubbles may be apparent in a window film installation and is quite typical. As a general rule one should stand at least a few feet back from the window and see if these micro-bubbles are still visible. It is impossible to get an absolutely perfect tint without being in a hermetically sealed lab removed of all dust and hair particles! However, it is important to keep in mind that we do our absolute best to install your tint using industry standard methods and care. If you have any concerns with an Xtreme window tint installation please feel free to bring the car in for us to see! To ensure the best results it is highly recommended to have your car's interior vacuumed and cleaned thoroughly before your appointment!
Q: I've heard of some back windows using a one or two-piece tint installation. What exactly does this mean and which is better?
A: When possible we prefer to install rear windows in a one-piece installation. It may be necessary for certain vehicles to use a two-piece installation. A two-piece install consists of two strips of window tint used to cover the rear window which is seamed along a center heater line and should be unnoticeable for the most part. Two-piece films are considered standard and quite acceptable although we use a one-piece whenever possible for aesthetic reasons.
Q: My window tint looks great since being done a week ago but I noticed a corner has lifted on one of the windows. Can this be fixed under my warranty?
A: Absolutely! It is somewhat common for a recent tint installation to lift or show a 'finger' along one of the edges due to many possible factors over the course of curing within a couple of weeks, including weather temperature changes. Generally they just need to be 're-worked' and is covered in your warranty. Simply call us to bring the car back in for a few minutes to get it fixed.
Q: Somebody told me that only 35% film is legal on cars. I'm pretty sure this refers to how dark the tint is but what if I want it darker. Will I get a ticket?
A: The current legal guidelines require driver and passenger side windows to be no darker than 35% (please check local by-laws as this can vary from place to place and may not necessarily relate to a specific percentage value) however it is your option on how dark you wish to tint the rear side and back windows. We do not charge extra for using different percentages so you may wish to have us recommend a combination for you that will suit your driving and aesthetical tastes. Please be aware that we do not under any circumstances install darker than 35% tint on the front driver and passenger side windows!
Q: How dark is a 35% film?
A: The percentage number refers to how much light is allowed through the film under a specific set of circumstances. The lower the percentage the less light is transmitted and is subsequently darker. It is important to keep in mind that there can be a wide variance in percieved darkness of a window tint dependant on many factors including how big the windows are, the interior colour of the car, and how dark other windows are tinted in the vehicle. We are always happy to share our knowledge in recommending the best tint for your purposes!
Any other questions? Let us know!
