We’ve all been there – you just invested in tinting your car windows to enhance privacy, block UV rays, and elevate your vehicle’s aesthetics.
Suddenly, the skies open up, and rain starts pouring down. You can’t help but worry if this rain will ruin your brand-new investment. Well, fear not! In this blog post, we’ll explore whether rain can damage newly-tinted windows and how best to protect them from any potential harm.
Key Takeaways
- Rain will not damage newly tinted windows as long as it does not reach the interior window panels.
- It’s essential to wait at least 48 hours before exposing your newly tinted windows to heavy rain or cleaning them with water, and use a soft cloth or squeegee to remove excess water gently.
- Parking in a covered area or garage during rainy weather is recommended to prevent excessive moisture that may prolong drying time or cause air pockets under the tint.
- Taking proper care of your investment by following these precautions will ensure long-lasting protection against UV rays, enhance privacy, and add aesthetic value while improving comfort.
Can Rain Damage Newly Tinted Windows?
Understanding the Tinting Process
The tinting process begins with thoroughly cleaning your car windows to remove any dirt, debris, or grease that could interfere with the adhesion of the window film. Once the windows are spotless, professional installers carefully measure and cut the window film to match the size and shape of each window.
A critical detail in this process is heating or curing the new film. The installer uses a heat gun or squeegee to press out bubbles and ensure a smooth finish and proper adhesion between the glass and film.
This step also helps activate water-soluble adhesive to bond firmly onto your vehicle’s windows.
How Rain Affects Newly Tinted Windows
As mentioned earlier, rainwater will not damage newly tinted windows as long as it does not reach the interior window panels. However, moisture from the rain can affect the curing process and cause bubbles between the film and the window surface.
Please wait 48 hours before exposing newly tinted windows to heavy rain or cleaning them with water.
Parking in a covered area or garage during rainy weather is also recommended to prevent exposure to excessive moisture that may prolong drying time or cause air pockets under the tint.
If you have ceramic tint installed on your car’s windows, allow up to 30 days for complete curing before washing your vehicle with soap and water.
Protecting Your Investment from Rain Damage
To protect your newly tinted windows from rain damage, wait at least 48 hours before exposing them to heavy rain and gently remove excess water with a soft cloth or squeegee.
Also, parking in a covered area or garage can help prevent potential moisture issues.
Wait for At Least 48 Hours Before Cleaning or Exposing to Heavy Rain
Giving your newly tinted car windows ample time to dry and cure before exposing them to heavy rain or cleaning them is essential. I recommend waiting 48 hours after the tinting process before washing your car or driving in heavy rainfall.
Moreover, touching or wiping down the freshly tinted windows may cause bubbles or scratches, affecting their look and durability. Instead, use a soft cloth or squeegee gently remove excess water if needed.
Gently Remove Excess Water with a Soft Cloth or Squeegee
After waiting 48 hours before exposing your newly tinted windows to heavy rain, removing excess water with a soft cloth or squeegee is necessary. This will prevent water spots and streaks from forming on the surface of the window film.
Start at the top of the window and work your way down in smooth strokes when using a squeegee. Use a clean, soft cloth to gently dab away any remaining moisture around the edges of the glass.
Remember that rough materials like paper towels or abrasive sponges can cause scratches on your newly tinted windows, so always use gentle tools and techniques when cleaning them.
Park In a Covered Area or Garage
I always recommend parking your newly tinted car in a covered area or garage to protect it from the elements, mainly rain. If you leave your car parked outside during a heavy downpour within the first 48 hours after installation, rain may cause severe water damage and uneven window drying.
Parking in a covered space keeps moisture and precipitation at bay while helping your window tints set correctly. Moreover, it protects against harsh UV rays that break down and fade car interiors over time.
Parking indoors also helps maintain temperatures inside the car by reducing heat buildup – a bonus if you live in warmer regions like Los Angeles or Phoenix.
Conclusion
Investing in a professional window tinting service can provide numerous benefits for your car or home. Rain will only ruin your investment if you follow the necessary precautions and protect it from extreme weather conditions.
Remember to wait 48 hours before cleaning or exposing newly tinted windows to heavy rain, gently remove excess water with a soft cloth or squeegee, and park in covered areas or garages.
Remember that bubble formations may occur during curing but should disappear within a few days.