How to Use Paint Thinner for Tint Removal

-

Window tinting film is typically applied to car windows. It limits the amount of sunlight that reaches the inside of the car and also provides some privacy. The film is often applied by the car or window manufacturer, or a company that specializes in tinting. If you want to remove the tint — perhaps because it has air bubbles or is peeling — do so cautiously. Removing the film in its entirety also involves removing all the adhesive. A solvent, such as paint thinner, can help, but several preliminary steps are required before you need the solvent.

Car driving on desert road Tint is commonly applied to car windows. Image Credit: Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

Video of the Day

Things You’ll Need

  • Razor Blade

  • Plastic Bag

  • Nylon Scrubbing Pad

  • Window Cleaner

  • Rag

  • Paint Thinner

  • Soapy Water

Step 1

Remove the tinting film from the window per manufacturer directions. One way to remove it is to spray the side with tint with a window cleaner containing ammonia. Then, cover it with a plastic trash bag or dry cleaning bag. This only works if the window is in the sun. Wait at least 45 minutes, peel off the bag to remove the tint. If necessary, reapply the window cleaner and another plastic bag to remove more of the tint.

Step 2

Scrape off the remaining film carefully with a razor blade. If you are removing the tint on the back window of a car, do not remove the defrost lines, if applicable, with the razor blade.

Step 3

Scrub the window with soapy water. Use a nylon scrubbing pad, testing it first in an inconspicuous area to be sure it does not scratch the glass. Otherwise, use an absorbent rag, such as terrycloth.

Step 4

Moisten a rag with paint thinner and scrub the window to remove the remaining tint film glue. Continue until the window is no longer sticky. Concentrate around the edges and corners. If you are going to have the window re-tinted, you must remove all the adhesive first.

Share this article

Recent posts

Teachers’ Top Needs for 2019

0
Teachers’ Top Needs for 2019Great classrooms don’t happen by accident. Teachers across the country work hard to build vibrant, energizing learning environments for their students, which often means ev

Top Tips to Transition Back to Work After Baby

0
Top Tips to Transition Back to Work After BabyMany new parents spend hours preparing for the arrival of a new baby – reading books, seeking professional advice and consulting friends and family. Howev

Get Away Without Going Away

0
Get Away Without Going Away5 family staycation ideas that won’t break your budgetFamily vacations are a great way to bond and take a step back from the hectic schedules that accompany everyday life, b

5 Common Questions for Memorializing a Loved One

0
5 Common Questions for Memorializing a Loved OneOne of the most difficult conversations in a person’s life typically takes place near the end of that life. Planning for a funeral can put an emotional

Boat Safe

0
Boat SafeEnsure your boat is ready for the water with this checklist No matter how much experience you have on the water, prepping your boat – and your passengers – before leaving the dock can make fo

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Recent comments