FAQ2022-11-08T14:05:59-05:00

AP Tinting FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Can residential window tint be removed?2022-11-24T10:19:54-05:00

Yes, however, we do recommend that it be uninstalled by a professional to avoid damaging the glass surface.

How long will it take to install window tint on my vehicle?2018-06-18T11:50:16-04:00

The installation can take anywhere from 30 minutes up to three hours. Installation time varies depending on how many windows will be getting tinted and what type of vehicle it is.

Will solar window film prevent the sun from heating up my home in the winter?2018-06-18T11:50:27-04:00

Solar film will actually insulate the glass, holding the heat inside your home. Glass windows and doors account for a tremendous amount of wasted energy in both summer and winter months. Professional solar window tinting can reduce air conditioning strain in the summer, while insulating the glass in the winter.

What is “low-e” window film?2022-11-24T10:12:55-05:00

A. “Low-e” is short for “low emissivity”. Low-e films absorb and emit relatively low levels of radiant thermal energy. Therefore, low-e films mainly reflect radiant thermal energy back to its source, keeping the heat on the same side of the glass from which it originated (keeping heat out in the summer and in during the winter), while letting visible light pass through.

How much difference does an extra pane of glass make?2018-06-18T12:01:22-04:00

Quite a bit. A double-pane window is thermally insulated by a gas trapped between two panes of glass, and effectively doubles the insulating performance of a single-pane window. To get that same kind of insulating power from a thin, transparent window film added to single-pane glass is impressive – and a lot more affordable.

What are “UV” rays?2018-06-18T11:50:42-04:00

“UV” refers to ultraviolet light, that invisible and unhealthy radiation just beyond violet in the visible spectrum. UV rays contribute to fading of interior furnishings.

What is “R-Value”?2018-06-18T11:50:34-04:00

In the construction industry, “R-Value” measures thermal resistance or how well a material blocks heat. The larger the number, the better the insulating performance.

What is “U-Value”?2018-06-18T12:13:39-04:00

“U-Value” measures the rate of heat passing through a material. A higher number indicates more heat passing through.

Will window tint reduce fading?2018-06-18T11:51:07-04:00

All of our LLumar and Geoshield flat glass films will reject 99% of the sun’s damaging UV rays, which can lead to fading and bleaching of fabric, furniture, carpet, and hardwood floors. Visible light and Solar heat also play a large role in fading.

Will window tint reduce the heat from the sun?2018-06-18T11:51:17-04:00

Our solar films will reject 40% to 84% of the sun’s heat, depending on which film type you choose for your home or office. Our films will also reduce 30% to 94% of solar glare.

Does the film go on the inside or outside of the glass?2018-06-18T11:53:12-04:00

Typically, Flat Glass films are applied to the inside. However, there are specially made films that can be applied to exterior glass. Ask for details!

Will the window tint darken up the room?2018-06-18T12:02:28-04:00

This will depend on how much visible light you want to reduce in your home or office. We offer a wide variety of films, which range from barely visible to dark and reflective and anywhere in between.

Do you have tint that will allow me to see outside, but not allow others to see inside?2018-06-18T11:52:49-04:00

We offer a One-Way Mirror film by LLumar that is reflective exteriorly and tinted interiorly. During the day time, this film will hinder others from being able to see in while not completely eliminating your view looking out. However, at night if the inside lights are brighter than the outside lights, people will be able to see in.

Do you have decorative films?2022-11-24T11:39:21-05:00

We have frosted film and other decorative films that will add privacy and style to any window or glass door. Decorative films will create a custom looking while providing maximum privacy, without darkening the room. Add frosted film to any plain glass surface such as windows, doors, and glass walls in your home or office. Click here to see our Decorative Film photo gallery!

Will window tinting kill my house plants?2018-06-18T12:02:58-04:00

For the first few days some plants may go into a state of shock while adjusting to the new light.  However, the only light rays that plants require for natural growth are far reds, red, and blues, all of which are not part of the UV color spectrum. The reduction in solar heat may actually help your house plants, allowing them to grow naturally without drying out.

Will you tint plexiglass, plastic or anything else besides glass?2018-06-18T11:51:37-04:00

We do not tint plexiglass, plastic, or acrylic for several reasons. These types of materials typically release a gas, which will cause the film to bubble and peel. Also, the surface is extremely difficult to prepare without scratching. However, there are other options are available. Please give us a call if you would like additional details.

FAQ: Can you tint skylights?2022-11-10T11:09:47-05:00

Yes! Skylights account for a tremendous amount of heat buildup in the warmer months. We recommend using a dark or reflective solar film to reject heat and reduce glare. Unfortunately, dome skylights cannot have window film applied. Window film is made for flat glass and does not lay smooth on the curves of a dome skylight. However, there are other options are available. Please give us a call if you would like additional details.

How do I clean the windows after the film is applied?2018-06-18T11:52:39-04:00

We recommend using a soft, clean cloth and any normal glass cleaning solution. You can use ammonia products on our window film, however, it is not recommended for everyday use.

Are your window films scratch resistant?2018-06-18T11:52:21-04:00

Our flat glass films are made with a scratch resistant coating. However, the film can still be scratched if enough pressure is applied. Scratches and other personal damage is not covered under the Lifetime Warranty.

What type of warranty do you offer?2018-06-18T11:52:08-04:00

We offer a Lifetime Warranty, which will cover fading, bubbling, cracking, peeling, and delaminating. Our manufactures also offer a 60 month thermal stress glass breakage warranty. Unfortunately, the lifetime warranty does not cover personal damage to the window film.

Should I drop my vehicle off or wait?2015-07-16T21:29:15-04:00

Both options are available and you can do what works best with your schedule. We prefer the vehicle to be dropped off for the day, but we do have a waiting area for customers who choose to stay for the installation.

Will you travel to my home or office to tint my vehicle?2015-07-16T21:28:29-04:00

Sorry folks, we do not travel to install tint on vehicles. Window tinting must be done inside in a controlled environment to prevent dirt, dust, and debris from getting onto the film.

How long should I keep my windows up after I have window tint installed?2015-07-16T21:27:03-04:00

We recommend keeping your windows up for at least three to five days.

How long will it take for the tint to completely dry?2018-06-18T12:05:15-04:00

It will take at least two weeks for the window film to completely dry out. Until then, the windows may appear slightly hazy or streaky. Leave your vehicle outside in the sunlight to help speed up the drying process. Drying time may take a little longer in the colder months.

Will window tint affect my defrosters?2015-07-16T21:26:13-04:00

Since window film insulates glass, it will actually help to clear the glass of fog and frost quicker.

Why doesn’t the film stick to the dot matrix on my windows?2015-07-16T21:25:50-04:00

The dot matrix is made out of a rough ceramic material that is raised from the glass surface. The raised dot matrix pushes the window film away from the smooth glass surface causing air pockets between the glass and matrix.

Will your film change color or turn purple?2015-07-16T21:23:01-04:00

Nope! All of our films are backed with a no color change warranty.

Can you put window film over top of factory tint?2015-07-16T21:23:24-04:00

Yes, we actually recommend having after market film installed over your factory tint. Factory tint on trucks, vans, and SUVs will do little for heat reduction and UV protection and is basically meant for privacy. FormulaOne films will reduce the amount of heat in your vehicle and will reject 99% of UV rays.

Can you scratch window tint?2018-06-18T11:56:55-04:00

Our films are made with a scratch resistant coating. However, the film can still be scratched if enough pressure is applied from a seatbelt, ring, keys, etc. Scratches and other personal damage is not covered under the Lifetime Warranty.

Can auto window tint be removed?2018-06-18T11:57:03-04:00

Yes – auto window tint can be removed, however, we do recommend that removal of the film be done by a trained professional. Improper removal of the rear glass can result in damage to the defrosters.

Can commercial window tint be removed?2018-06-18T11:57:27-04:00

Yes, however, we do recommend that it be uninstalled by a professional to avoid damaging the glass surface.

How long will it take for my new solar window film to dry?2018-06-18T11:58:20-04:00

At first, the film will have a milky or clouded look in spots. This is quite common and a normal part of the drying process. As moisture from the application solution slowly evaporates through the film, the lumpiness and/or cloudiness will slowly diminish. Within two to eight weeks it should dry completely, depending on the film product, temperature, and humidity. Normal curing periods range from 7-60 days.

What is “low-e” window film?2022-11-24T10:12:55-05:00

A. “Low-e” is short for “low emissivity”. Low-e films absorb and emit relatively low levels of radiant thermal energy. Therefore, low-e films mainly reflect radiant thermal energy back to its source, keeping the heat on the same side of the glass from which it originated (keeping heat out in the summer and in during the winter), while letting visible light pass through.

How much difference does an extra pane of glass make?2018-06-18T12:01:22-04:00

Quite a bit. A double-pane window is thermally insulated by a gas trapped between two panes of glass, and effectively doubles the insulating performance of a single-pane window. To get that same kind of insulating power from a thin, transparent window film added to single-pane glass is impressive – and a lot more affordable.

What are “UV” rays?2018-06-18T11:50:42-04:00

“UV” refers to ultraviolet light, that invisible and unhealthy radiation just beyond violet in the visible spectrum. UV rays contribute to fading of interior furnishings.

What is “R-Value”?2018-06-18T11:50:34-04:00

In the construction industry, “R-Value” measures thermal resistance or how well a material blocks heat. The larger the number, the better the insulating performance.

What is “U-Value”?2018-06-18T12:13:39-04:00

“U-Value” measures the rate of heat passing through a material. A higher number indicates more heat passing through.

Will window tint reduce fading?2018-06-18T11:51:07-04:00

All of our LLumar and Geoshield flat glass films will reject 99% of the sun’s damaging UV rays, which can lead to fading and bleaching of fabric, furniture, carpet, and hardwood floors. Visible light and Solar heat also play a large role in fading.

Will window tint reduce the heat from the sun?2018-06-18T11:51:17-04:00

Our solar films will reject 40% to 84% of the sun’s heat, depending on which film type you choose for your home or office. Our films will also reduce 30% to 94% of solar glare.

Does the film go on the inside or outside of the glass?2018-06-18T11:53:12-04:00

Typically, Flat Glass films are applied to the inside. However, there are specially made films that can be applied to exterior glass. Ask for details!

Will the window tint darken up the room?2018-06-18T12:02:28-04:00

This will depend on how much visible light you want to reduce in your home or office. We offer a wide variety of films, which range from barely visible to dark and reflective and anywhere in between.

Do you have tint that will allow me to see outside, but not allow others to see inside?2018-06-18T11:52:49-04:00

We offer a One-Way Mirror film by LLumar that is reflective exteriorly and tinted interiorly. During the day time, this film will hinder others from being able to see in while not completely eliminating your view looking out. However, at night if the inside lights are brighter than the outside lights, people will be able to see in.

Do you have decorative films?2022-11-24T11:39:21-05:00

We have frosted film and other decorative films that will add privacy and style to any window or glass door. Decorative films will create a custom looking while providing maximum privacy, without darkening the room. Add frosted film to any plain glass surface such as windows, doors, and glass walls in your home or office. Click here to see our Decorative Film photo gallery!

Will window tinting kill my house plants?2018-06-18T12:02:58-04:00

For the first few days some plants may go into a state of shock while adjusting to the new light.  However, the only light rays that plants require for natural growth are far reds, red, and blues, all of which are not part of the UV color spectrum. The reduction in solar heat may actually help your house plants, allowing them to grow naturally without drying out.

Will you tint plexiglass, plastic or anything else besides glass?2018-06-18T11:51:37-04:00

We do not tint plexiglass, plastic, or acrylic for several reasons. These types of materials typically release a gas, which will cause the film to bubble and peel. Also, the surface is extremely difficult to prepare without scratching. However, there are other options are available. Please give us a call if you would like additional details.

FAQ: Can you tint skylights?2022-11-10T11:09:47-05:00

Yes! Skylights account for a tremendous amount of heat buildup in the warmer months. We recommend using a dark or reflective solar film to reject heat and reduce glare. Unfortunately, dome skylights cannot have window film applied. Window film is made for flat glass and does not lay smooth on the curves of a dome skylight. However, there are other options are available. Please give us a call if you would like additional details.

How do I clean the windows after the film is applied?2018-06-18T11:52:39-04:00

We recommend using a soft, clean cloth and any normal glass cleaning solution. You can use ammonia products on our window film, however, it is not recommended for everyday use.

Are your window films scratch resistant?2018-06-18T11:52:21-04:00

Our flat glass films are made with a scratch resistant coating. However, the film can still be scratched if enough pressure is applied. Scratches and other personal damage is not covered under the Lifetime Warranty.

What type of warranty do you offer?2018-06-18T11:52:08-04:00

We offer a Lifetime Warranty, which will cover fading, bubbling, cracking, peeling, and delaminating. Our manufactures also offer a 60 month thermal stress glass breakage warranty. Unfortunately, the lifetime warranty does not cover personal damage to the window film.

Can you scratch window tint?2018-06-18T11:56:55-04:00

Our films are made with a scratch resistant coating. However, the film can still be scratched if enough pressure is applied from a seatbelt, ring, keys, etc. Scratches and other personal damage is not covered under the Lifetime Warranty.

Can commercial window tint be removed?2018-06-18T11:57:27-04:00

Yes, however, we do recommend that it be uninstalled by a professional to avoid damaging the glass surface.

How long will it take for my new solar window film to dry?2018-06-18T11:58:20-04:00

At first, the film will have a milky or clouded look in spots. This is quite common and a normal part of the drying process. As moisture from the application solution slowly evaporates through the film, the lumpiness and/or cloudiness will slowly diminish. Within two to eight weeks it should dry completely, depending on the film product, temperature, and humidity. Normal curing periods range from 7-60 days.

Can residential window tint be removed?2022-11-24T10:19:54-05:00

Yes, however, we do recommend that it be uninstalled by a professional to avoid damaging the glass surface.

Will solar window film prevent the sun from heating up my home in the winter?2018-06-18T11:50:27-04:00

Solar film will actually insulate the glass, holding the heat inside your home. Glass windows and doors account for a tremendous amount of wasted energy in both summer and winter months. Professional solar window tinting can reduce air conditioning strain in the summer, while insulating the glass in the winter.

What is “low-e” window film?2022-11-24T10:12:55-05:00

A. “Low-e” is short for “low emissivity”. Low-e films absorb and emit relatively low levels of radiant thermal energy. Therefore, low-e films mainly reflect radiant thermal energy back to its source, keeping the heat on the same side of the glass from which it originated (keeping heat out in the summer and in during the winter), while letting visible light pass through.

How much difference does an extra pane of glass make?2018-06-18T12:01:22-04:00

Quite a bit. A double-pane window is thermally insulated by a gas trapped between two panes of glass, and effectively doubles the insulating performance of a single-pane window. To get that same kind of insulating power from a thin, transparent window film added to single-pane glass is impressive – and a lot more affordable.

What are “UV” rays?2018-06-18T11:50:42-04:00

“UV” refers to ultraviolet light, that invisible and unhealthy radiation just beyond violet in the visible spectrum. UV rays contribute to fading of interior furnishings.

What is “R-Value”?2018-06-18T11:50:34-04:00

In the construction industry, “R-Value” measures thermal resistance or how well a material blocks heat. The larger the number, the better the insulating performance.

What is “U-Value”?2018-06-18T12:13:39-04:00

“U-Value” measures the rate of heat passing through a material. A higher number indicates more heat passing through.

Will window tint reduce fading?2018-06-18T11:51:07-04:00

All of our LLumar and Geoshield flat glass films will reject 99% of the sun’s damaging UV rays, which can lead to fading and bleaching of fabric, furniture, carpet, and hardwood floors. Visible light and Solar heat also play a large role in fading.

Will window tint reduce the heat from the sun?2018-06-18T11:51:17-04:00

Our solar films will reject 40% to 84% of the sun’s heat, depending on which film type you choose for your home or office. Our films will also reduce 30% to 94% of solar glare.

Does the film go on the inside or outside of the glass?2018-06-18T11:53:12-04:00

Typically, Flat Glass films are applied to the inside. However, there are specially made films that can be applied to exterior glass. Ask for details!

Will the window tint darken up the room?2018-06-18T12:02:28-04:00

This will depend on how much visible light you want to reduce in your home or office. We offer a wide variety of films, which range from barely visible to dark and reflective and anywhere in between.

Do you have tint that will allow me to see outside, but not allow others to see inside?2018-06-18T11:52:49-04:00

We offer a One-Way Mirror film by LLumar that is reflective exteriorly and tinted interiorly. During the day time, this film will hinder others from being able to see in while not completely eliminating your view looking out. However, at night if the inside lights are brighter than the outside lights, people will be able to see in.

Do you have decorative films?2022-11-24T11:39:21-05:00

We have frosted film and other decorative films that will add privacy and style to any window or glass door. Decorative films will create a custom looking while providing maximum privacy, without darkening the room. Add frosted film to any plain glass surface such as windows, doors, and glass walls in your home or office. Click here to see our Decorative Film photo gallery!

Will window tinting kill my house plants?2018-06-18T12:02:58-04:00

For the first few days some plants may go into a state of shock while adjusting to the new light.  However, the only light rays that plants require for natural growth are far reds, red, and blues, all of which are not part of the UV color spectrum. The reduction in solar heat may actually help your house plants, allowing them to grow naturally without drying out.

Will you tint plexiglass, plastic or anything else besides glass?2018-06-18T11:51:37-04:00

We do not tint plexiglass, plastic, or acrylic for several reasons. These types of materials typically release a gas, which will cause the film to bubble and peel. Also, the surface is extremely difficult to prepare without scratching. However, there are other options are available. Please give us a call if you would like additional details.

FAQ: Can you tint skylights?2022-11-10T11:09:47-05:00

Yes! Skylights account for a tremendous amount of heat buildup in the warmer months. We recommend using a dark or reflective solar film to reject heat and reduce glare. Unfortunately, dome skylights cannot have window film applied. Window film is made for flat glass and does not lay smooth on the curves of a dome skylight. However, there are other options are available. Please give us a call if you would like additional details.

How do I clean the windows after the film is applied?2018-06-18T11:52:39-04:00

We recommend using a soft, clean cloth and any normal glass cleaning solution. You can use ammonia products on our window film, however, it is not recommended for everyday use.

Are your window films scratch resistant?2018-06-18T11:52:21-04:00

Our flat glass films are made with a scratch resistant coating. However, the film can still be scratched if enough pressure is applied. Scratches and other personal damage is not covered under the Lifetime Warranty.

What type of warranty do you offer?2018-06-18T11:52:08-04:00

We offer a Lifetime Warranty, which will cover fading, bubbling, cracking, peeling, and delaminating. Our manufactures also offer a 60 month thermal stress glass breakage warranty. Unfortunately, the lifetime warranty does not cover personal damage to the window film.

Can you scratch window tint?2018-06-18T11:56:55-04:00

Our films are made with a scratch resistant coating. However, the film can still be scratched if enough pressure is applied from a seatbelt, ring, keys, etc. Scratches and other personal damage is not covered under the Lifetime Warranty.

How long will it take for my new solar window film to dry?2018-06-18T11:58:20-04:00

At first, the film will have a milky or clouded look in spots. This is quite common and a normal part of the drying process. As moisture from the application solution slowly evaporates through the film, the lumpiness and/or cloudiness will slowly diminish. Within two to eight weeks it should dry completely, depending on the film product, temperature, and humidity. Normal curing periods range from 7-60 days.

How long will it take to install window tint on my vehicle?2018-06-18T11:50:16-04:00

The installation can take anywhere from 30 minutes up to three hours. Installation time varies depending on how many windows will be getting tinted and what type of vehicle it is.

What are “UV” rays?2018-06-18T11:50:42-04:00

“UV” refers to ultraviolet light, that invisible and unhealthy radiation just beyond violet in the visible spectrum. UV rays contribute to fading of interior furnishings.

What is “R-Value”?2018-06-18T11:50:34-04:00

In the construction industry, “R-Value” measures thermal resistance or how well a material blocks heat. The larger the number, the better the insulating performance.

What is “U-Value”?2018-06-18T12:13:39-04:00

“U-Value” measures the rate of heat passing through a material. A higher number indicates more heat passing through.

Will window tint reduce fading?2018-06-18T11:51:07-04:00

All of our LLumar and Geoshield flat glass films will reject 99% of the sun’s damaging UV rays, which can lead to fading and bleaching of fabric, furniture, carpet, and hardwood floors. Visible light and Solar heat also play a large role in fading.

Will window tint reduce the heat from the sun?2018-06-18T11:51:17-04:00

Our solar films will reject 40% to 84% of the sun’s heat, depending on which film type you choose for your home or office. Our films will also reduce 30% to 94% of solar glare.

Does the film go on the inside or outside of the glass?2018-06-18T11:53:12-04:00

Typically, Flat Glass films are applied to the inside. However, there are specially made films that can be applied to exterior glass. Ask for details!

Do you have tint that will allow me to see outside, but not allow others to see inside?2018-06-18T11:52:49-04:00

We offer a One-Way Mirror film by LLumar that is reflective exteriorly and tinted interiorly. During the day time, this film will hinder others from being able to see in while not completely eliminating your view looking out. However, at night if the inside lights are brighter than the outside lights, people will be able to see in.

Will you tint plexiglass, plastic or anything else besides glass?2018-06-18T11:51:37-04:00

We do not tint plexiglass, plastic, or acrylic for several reasons. These types of materials typically release a gas, which will cause the film to bubble and peel. Also, the surface is extremely difficult to prepare without scratching. However, there are other options are available. Please give us a call if you would like additional details.

How do I clean the windows after the film is applied?2018-06-18T11:52:39-04:00

We recommend using a soft, clean cloth and any normal glass cleaning solution. You can use ammonia products on our window film, however, it is not recommended for everyday use.

Are your window films scratch resistant?2018-06-18T11:52:21-04:00

Our flat glass films are made with a scratch resistant coating. However, the film can still be scratched if enough pressure is applied. Scratches and other personal damage is not covered under the Lifetime Warranty.

What type of warranty do you offer?2018-06-18T11:52:08-04:00

We offer a Lifetime Warranty, which will cover fading, bubbling, cracking, peeling, and delaminating. Our manufactures also offer a 60 month thermal stress glass breakage warranty. Unfortunately, the lifetime warranty does not cover personal damage to the window film.

Should I drop my vehicle off or wait?2015-07-16T21:29:15-04:00

Both options are available and you can do what works best with your schedule. We prefer the vehicle to be dropped off for the day, but we do have a waiting area for customers who choose to stay for the installation.

Will you travel to my home or office to tint my vehicle?2015-07-16T21:28:29-04:00

Sorry folks, we do not travel to install tint on vehicles. Window tinting must be done inside in a controlled environment to prevent dirt, dust, and debris from getting onto the film.

How long should I keep my windows up after I have window tint installed?2015-07-16T21:27:03-04:00

We recommend keeping your windows up for at least three to five days.

How long will it take for the tint to completely dry?2018-06-18T12:05:15-04:00

It will take at least two weeks for the window film to completely dry out. Until then, the windows may appear slightly hazy or streaky. Leave your vehicle outside in the sunlight to help speed up the drying process. Drying time may take a little longer in the colder months.

Will window tint affect my defrosters?2015-07-16T21:26:13-04:00

Since window film insulates glass, it will actually help to clear the glass of fog and frost quicker.

Why doesn’t the film stick to the dot matrix on my windows?2015-07-16T21:25:50-04:00

The dot matrix is made out of a rough ceramic material that is raised from the glass surface. The raised dot matrix pushes the window film away from the smooth glass surface causing air pockets between the glass and matrix.

Will your film change color or turn purple?2015-07-16T21:23:01-04:00

Nope! All of our films are backed with a no color change warranty.

Can you put window film over top of factory tint?2015-07-16T21:23:24-04:00

Yes, we actually recommend having after market film installed over your factory tint. Factory tint on trucks, vans, and SUVs will do little for heat reduction and UV protection and is basically meant for privacy. FormulaOne films will reduce the amount of heat in your vehicle and will reject 99% of UV rays.

Can you scratch window tint?2018-06-18T11:56:55-04:00

Our films are made with a scratch resistant coating. However, the film can still be scratched if enough pressure is applied from a seatbelt, ring, keys, etc. Scratches and other personal damage is not covered under the Lifetime Warranty.

Can auto window tint be removed?2018-06-18T11:57:03-04:00

Yes – auto window tint can be removed, however, we do recommend that removal of the film be done by a trained professional. Improper removal of the rear glass can result in damage to the defrosters.

Go to Top