How To Remove Window Tinting Glue From Car Windows?
Removing window tinting glue from car glass can be challenging, but it is not impossible. The glue left behind from old window tint can be unsightly, but with the right tools and techniques, your windows will look like new again.
In this guide, our team at Eightyeight Detailing will show you some effective methods of how to remove window tinting glue from car windows, including using various techniques and products. You can have your windows free from glue residue with patience and some elbow grease or simply rely on the expertise and labour of our technicians.
Why You Need to Remove Window Tint Glue
When you remove window tint or are preparing your car window for the new film, any remaining adhesive needs lifting off for the following reasons:
- Leftover Glue Becomes Unsightly: The exposed window can look discoloured and drab over time, detracting from the vehicle’s appearance.
- Brittle and cracked glue residue: Allows water and other debris to seep into the vehicle, potentially causing damage to the tint film or car interior.
- Difficult to remove the window tint film when replacing: The presence of the glue can also make it more difficult to clean the windows, as the glue can attract dirt and grime.
- Bubbling: If you try to remove and fix bubbling window tinting, the residue will make it worse.
Removing the leftover tint glue is vital for maintaining the appearance and integrity of the vehicle, as well as for ensuring the longevity of any new window tint that is applied.
Why Professional Detailers Need to Remove Window Tint Glue
Professional detailers, like our crew at Eightyeight Detailing, need to remove window tint glue because it is essential to maintaining a vehicle’s appearance and integrity. Insufficient removal can lead to costly repairs and negatively impact the vehicle’s resale value.
A detailing team also has the tools and equipment to safely and effectively remove the glue, such as specialised solvents and scrapers. These tools are not typically available to the average consumer, and using the wrong tools or methods can cause damage to the vehicle’s windows or paint.
Our cew also have the experience and knowledge to correctly identify the type of glue used and the best method for removing it without causing damage to the vehicle. One of the significant aspects of having a professional undertake the task is they have the knowledge to identify and repair any damage caused by the tint glue, such as scratches or discolouration, which a DIY job might not be able to address.
Finally, professional detailers have liability insurance that covers any accidental damage that may occur while removing the glue, which provides added peace of mind for the vehicle owner.
How to Remove Baked-On Window Tint Residue
For baked-on window tint removal, you can try using a combination of heat and a solvent. Here are a few DIY methods you can try:
- Heat the area with a hair dryer, steamer, or heat gun, and then use a plastic scraper or a credit card to scrape off the residue.
- Use a mixture of equal parts warm water and vinegar in a spray bottle, and apply it to the sticky residue. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then use a plastic razor scraper or credit card to carefully scrape off the residue.
- Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol or window cleaner to a clean microfiber cloth, and use it to scrub the residue. Repeat as needed.
- Use a product specifically designed to remove window tint residue, such as an Adhesive Remover. Follow the instructions on the product.
Note: Be sure to wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area, as some of these chemicals can be harsh. Also, be careful not to scratch the glass while removing the residue, so be mindful to gently wipe and scrape the adhesive.
How to Remove Window Film Adhesive from Car Glass
There are several ways to remove window film adhesive from car glass, which will likely require less scarping than baked-on glue. The following ideas are what work best for this type of window film residue:
- Heat: Use a heat gun, steamer or hair dryer to soften the adhesive over the entire window, then gently scrape it off with a plastic blade.
- Soap water: Add a mix of warm and soapy water into a spray bottle, then use a sponge or cloth to scrub the adhesive off the glass.
- Vinegar: Soak a cloth in white vinegar and place it on the adhesive for several minutes to soften it, then scrape it off with a razor blade or plastic scraper.
- Commercial adhesive remover: Use a commercial adhesive remover, always following the manufacturer’s instructions.
As with the baked-on glue, it’s best to wear vinyl gloves
Tips & Tricks on Removing Old Window Tint Glue
If you are undertaking window tint removal yourself, here are some useful tips and tricks to help you through the process:
Tip 1: Be Patient & Take Your Time
Removing old window tint glue can be tedious, but it’s important to be patient and take your time to avoid damaging the glass. It’s also crucial to wear gloves and protective goggles to protect your skin and eyes from any chemical or razor blade.
Tip 2: Alcohol Effectively Removes Residue
Using 90% isopropyl alcohol instead of a spray ammonia solution is a cheaper alternative and is just as effective for removing window tint glue, as well as any other residual dirt and sticky substances.
Tip 3: Nail Polish Remover
Nail polish remover has long been used for removing all types of sticky substances, in cars, on windows, in your home and more. Make your window glass cleaner by using a clean cloth and rubbing the remover into the window.
Choose Eightyeight Detailing for the Easiest Way to Remove Tint Glue
When removing tint glue, hiring a professional detailing service, such as Eightyeight Detailing, is the easiest option, as they have the experience and equipment necessary to safely and effectively remove the glue without damaging the glass on the front, side and rear window.
While we have outlined some great DIY options, you could damage your vehicle window and car’s interior or exterior if the process isn’t done right. We also have the right type of personal protective equipment on hand to protect ourselves during the process from breathing in chemicals or avoiding contact with spills.
When you contact our crew about the best way to remove glue from peeling tint, their recommendation will be about how to remove window tinting glue from car windows, but they will advise you to make an appointment for a smooth finish. Book with us now!