Window tinting films - common questions

South Coast Tints often has customers looking for additional information about our professional and ethical service. Here are some questions and answers that are often asked.

Download our 'Careful Spender' guide

This comparison checksheet has the main points for consideration. PDF - 70Kb.

We cannot stress enough the seriousness of illegally tinted windows in this country, for example if you have been miss-lead by our competition, you may be driving an illegal vehicle now, thus making your insurance void. We therefore encourage you to check these details out with your insurance company to avoid any risks.

Q: I have already spoken to another window tinting company and they say I can put a 30% tint on the front two side windows, so why are you telling me I can’t?

A: This is one of the most common ways people are mislead as we mentioned above. Please drop us a line or watch our UK window tinting law short video to find out more. What you will get from us are the facts.

Q: I have satellite navigation and TV’s installed in my car does your film effect my reception?

A: Simply put, NO. We don't use metalised films. Some films are metalised, so watch out for other companies still using metalised films. The metal makes them much better at reflecting the suns radiation, thus keep the vehicle much cooler. The price you pay is lack of reception with many modern day electrical products.

Q: Can I have a sun strip installed and if so how deep can it be without breaking the law?

A: Yes a sun strip may be installed however every vehicle is different. The law states that you cannot tint into the windscreen wiper zone. In some cases this is not a very deep sun strip and in others no sun strip may be fitted at all. We typically advise our customers when they turn up for their appointment.

Q: Can I open my windows straight away after installation?

A: We recommend that you allow 3 working days before window use. This is to allow the film to dry and gives the adhesive time to cure.

Q: Does the film affect my rear window defroster?

A: No, the film does not affect the element.

Q: Does the tint bubble up after time?

A: No, we use only the highest quality films imported from the USA. The adhesives are specially designed to withstand extreme temperatures. Bubbles appear from poorer quality film adhesives breaking down.

Q: Is the rear window fitted in one piece?

A: Yes, all rear hatch & saloon windows are fitted with one piece of tint, skillfully heat shrunk to shape.

Q: I’ve seen lots of tinted vehicles close up with creases and bubbles everywhere, will my windows look like that?

A: No, your windows will look perfect for as long as you own your vehicle when tinted professionally by South Coast Tints, we guarantee your satisfaction or we will return your money with no obligation. Find out more about our guarantee.

Q: When I come to sell my vehicle, can the film be removed at all?

A: Yes, of course. Due to the quality of our films, all can be removed easily after many years. In some cases a layer of glue is left behind, this is not easy to remove. We have the correct cleaners and tools to return the vehicle to its original state. Just drop us a line and we can provide the removal service for you.

Q: Do my vehicle windows have to be clean upon arrival?

A: No, not particularly. But, we do need to know if you think your vehicle has been tinted before, or you’ve tried to tint it yourself, possibly leaving transparent adhesive on the windows which then can incur additional costs to remove and clean ready for your new installation. Worst-case scenario, we would need to view your vehicle first to assess any extra time & labour that may be required.

Q: Now my vehicle is tinted, I’ve noticed a few scratches on the outside of the glass that I never noticed before, where have they come from?

A: On clear glass you would never spot existing glass scratches. Window films reflect more light from the vehicle surroundings thus if your windows are slightly marked, the films will show them up more. Most scratches & marks on the exterior glass typically come from use of ice scrapers or whilst washing your car from small pieces of grit over the years.

Q: What can I keep my windows clean with?

A: Any glass cleaner as long as it is non-abrasive with a soft cloth.

Q: Do you offer a guarantee with your work?

A: Yes, we guarantee the film for as long as the film manufacturer guarantees their product. This is currently 5 years with most Lumar products. Read more about our no quibble money back guarantee.

Q: If I scratch the film, is there free replacement under your guarantee?

A: Sorry no, please contact us for a quote and appointment time to replace your damaged window. Please do not try to remove yourself.

Q: Can I tint my windscreen?

A: No, We do not fit films to any vehicle windscreens unless there is a medical exemption. Sunstrips can be applied to the top of your windscreen as long as they do not obstruct your vision in any way.

Q: Can you fit a new layer of film to my existing tint?

A: No, it is not recommended and would not be covered by our guarantee.

If you have any other questions, South Coast Tints are only a phone call away and always happy to chat to you about the art of window tinting and any issues surrounding our service. Call us now on: 02380 336474 or send us an .

Window tint films

Protection & safety

Job photos + videos