Can You Apply Window Tint to a Damaged Windshield?
For many car owners, tinted windows are essential. But what happens when the windshield or any tinted window gets damaged? Does the tint need to be replaced, or can the window be repaired without affecting it?
At SRG Auto Glass, we often get inquiries about fixing minor damage to tinted windows, and we’re here to provide clarity. With 15 locations across the Twin Cities and a fleet of mobile repair units, we are the go-to option for auto glass repairs in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
With more than 200 years of combined experience, our technicians ensure that your tinted windshield and windows receive top-notch care. Let’s walk through the process of repairing tinted windows and what you can expect after repairs.
What Happens to Window Tint on a Damaged Windshield or Tinted Window?
If your windshield or tinted window sustains minor damage, such as a chip or crack, it’s crucial to address the issue right away. While small damage might not pose an immediate safety risk, it can affect the appearance of the tinted glass.
If left untreated, the tint around the damaged area could begin to peel away from the glass. Allowing this to continue could ultimately require a full replacement of the tint on the entire window.
To prevent unnecessary costs, it’s important to repair the damage promptly.
How Does Repairing a Tinted Window Work?
If you attempt to apply tint to a cracked or chipped windshield, you could be wasting both time and money.
The repair won’t result in a smooth finish if you simply apply new tint over the damaged area. The chips and cracks might still be visible, and you may notice grooves forming along the damage. In this case, the final appearance will be far from perfect.
If you have car insurance, the cost of replacing the glass could be minimal or even covered entirely, as many insurance providers will cover the repair without raising your rates. By taking your vehicle to SRG Auto Glass, you’ll receive a complete windshield repair and professional tinting services for a flawless finish.
Repairing a Tinted Window
Various types of chips and cracks can be repaired on tinted auto glass, but the feasibility depends on the size, depth, and location of the damage.
While repairing the damage helps preserve the glass, it may prevent further tinting of that specific area due to the contrast between the repair and the rest of the windshield or tinted window. In cases where you cannot retint the area, it’s better to replace the damaged glass to ensure a smooth, clean surface for new tint application.
SRG Auto Glass can repair a tinted window as quickly as any regular window, but we might need to remove the existing tint first. Our certified technicians can safely remove the tint, repair the glass, and prepare the surface for a fresh layer of tint.
The Repair Process for Tinted Windows
Repairing a tinted window involves a few extra steps beyond standard glass repairs. Here’s the typical process:
1.The technician carefully removes the tint from around the damaged area.
2.The damaged area is thoroughly cleaned to remove any debris.
3.A resin filler is injected into the chip or crack to seal the damage.
4.Once the resin has fully set and dried, the technician will reapply the tint film to the affected area.
Given the complexity of applying window tint, it’s highly recommended to leave the repair process to an experienced professional. DIY auto glass repairs are often ineffective, especially when dealing with tinted windows.
Re-Tinting After a Repair
After a windshield or tinted window repair, it may be possible to reapply the tint, but this process requires precision. When the tint is removed from the damaged area, the new tint must align perfectly with the existing film. Even a slight overlap or misalignment could create an unsightly blemish that leads to additional costs.
The Importance of Quality Tint
When applying tint to a damaged windshield or side window, the finish may not be as smooth as expected. Cracks and chips might still show through, causing the tint to appear uneven or unprofessional.
Higher-quality window tint offers better protection from harmful UV rays, reduces glare, enhances comfort, and increases privacy. It also plays a role in reducing the risk of further damage, as a professionally applied tint can help maintain the structural integrity of the glass and prevent shattering.
If you have insurance, most providers will cover the cost of replacing the damaged glass, meaning you won’t have to pay out-of-pocket for a repair or new tint. Visit SRG Auto Glass for a complete solution that guarantees a pristine finish and a fully restored windshield or tinted window.
SRG Repairs All Car Windshields & Side Windows
When you had your window tint professionally applied or did the job yourself, you shouldn’t attempt to repair chips or cracks in the glass on your own. Not only are windshield repair kits difficult to use, but they typically also yield low-quality repairs that don’t last and compromise the integrity of the glass.
What’s more, repairing tinted auto glass requires removing the tint before the repair itself can commence. An auto glass repair specialist can easily remove the tint in a small area immediately surrounding the chip or crack, but you may be unable to do the same.
If you mess up the tint in one area by trying to accomplish the job yourself, you’ll likely have to remove all of the tint and have it reapplied. And if you attempt to perform the glass repair on your own, you may not even be able to have the damaged area re-tinted if the DIY repair didn’t turn out quite how you had hoped.
We Repair All Car Windshields & Side Windows
No matter where you live in the Twin Cities area, bring your car to SRG Auto Glass for complete windshield repair or auto glass replacement. Our technicians have the skill, training, and experience to perform repair jobs on domestic and foreign autos. Whether you own an SUV, truck, or sedan, you can depend on us for fast, friendly service and affordable rates.
Check this amazing article out: 7 Legitimate Reasons Why You Should Have Your Car Windows Tinted
Check Out Our Other Auto Glass Insights!
If you found this post helpful, why stop here? Our blog is packed with expert advice, practical tips, and answers to common auto glass questions. Whether you’re curious about the best ways to care for your car’s windows, wondering about insurance coverage for glass repairs, or looking to learn more about the benefits of professional tinting, we’ve got you covered. Explore our other posts to stay informed and keep your vehicle in top-notch condition!
