After you learn about RV tinting, check out our latest articles, fender flares for your Ram 1500 and Eliminating BSW Confusion on tires, for your reading pleasure.
Types of RV Tinting
1. Dyed Tint
The first type of RV tinting is by far the most economically friendly one. It’s a layer of dye particles supported by adhesive under a protective polyester coat. This type has no connection to any waves; hence it doesn’t mess around with your GPS, cell phone, or other technology. Moreover, it blocks a significant amount of sunlight, providing comfort and durability. Unfortunately, it can deteriorate over time as the dye loses its color and coverage. It’s also pretty tricky to install due to bubbles.2. Metalized Tint
A metalized tint consists of tiny particles of metal embedded throughout the window using a procedure known as sputtering. These particles are treated to reflect and block UV light rays and further protect the windows against accidents, scratches, and breakage. The biggest downside to this tint is their interference with all of the waves coming from your technology. Furthermore, it has a shiny appearance which might not be appreciated by everyone, in addition to the fact that it’s costly when compared with dyed tint.3. Hybrid Tint
This is the best of both worlds in terms of UV light blockage! Your windows will be without a reflective appearance and no interference with technology, thanks to the dyed-metalized tint. Hence, the only logical result will be that it’s rather expensive as it almost comes without disadvantages.
4. Carbon Tint
Carbon tint is mostly about reflecting and blocking all of the infrared to protect the inside of your RV. It’s created out of hundreds of polymer microlayers without the integration of any metal. It doesn’t fade over time, protects from overheating, and doesn’t interfere with any technology at all. Again, carbon tints are more expensive than their previous competitors.5. Ceramic Tint
The ceramic tint is the top-of-the-line option here. The ceramic particles implemented don’t do just one job; rather, they reflect all of the infrared and UV light rays while reducing the heat’s strength that does penetrate the film. This means that it provides double the protection and double the heat absorption. Plus, it doesn’t Interfere with any technological waves, prevents glare, and has a matte finish. It’s also incredibly durable; nevertheless, it’s the most expensive option on this list.Application
1. Professional Application
Professional application methods will save you a lot of trouble and material hunting. Still, the range will be around $25 per window, which can be rather costly. Yet, it does provide you with a warranty and maintenance.2. DIY-ing
DIY-ing has a lot of advantages, mainly that it’s economically friendly plus the versatility with all of the materials. But, with such an accurate task. You would have to be really careful and study the process down to the very last detail.Tools
- Window tint film
- Window tint film application solution
- A razor
- A squeegee
- A scraper
- Lint-free cleaning cloth
- A razor
- A garage
Process
- Clean and prepare the outside of your window using the scraper blade working from side to side
- Follow with the squeegee to remove all of the build-ups of dust
- Apply the solution from the outside. Make sure that it has reached the entire window without running outside its borders
- Roll the tint film with the protective layer facing upwards
- Leave ¼-⅛ of an inch of the film around both the top and bottom sides of the window so that you can cut them properly
- Cut the film into the perfect size
- Roll the film up neatly so that it doesn’t crease
- Roll the window down so that you can perfect the upper edge of the film
- Round out any left edges and make sure that all of your cuts are clean
- Repeat the cleaning process on the inside of your window using the low-linen cloth, the squeegee, and, if needed, the razor blade
- Don’t forget to get to the tight nooks and crannies between the window and the gasket
- Remove the adhesive from the cover using two pieces of tape facing each other, one on each side of the film. When you pull them apart, you’ll remove the cover and expose the adhesive
- Spray the adhesive side with the application liquid along with the inside of the window generously
- Carefully remove the film from the outside and place it on the inside of the window with the adhesive facing down. The application liquid will allow you to maneuver the film around until you get it in place
- Use the squeegee to squeeze down any remaining application liquid under the film
- Start forcing the sides of the film under the gasket so that the window is fully covered
- Roll up the window and repeat the process of applying liquid and squeegee until the entire window is covered
- Using the squeegee, make sure to get out any bubbles or creases
- Wrap your low-linen cloth around the squeegee and start pushing on the edges of the film to absorb any remaining liquid and prevent it from re-entering under the tint
Can RV Window Tinting Help with Energy Efficiency and Solar Panel Installation?
Applying a tint to your RV windows is a smart move for improving energy efficiency and promoting the effective setup of solar panels. By reducing the incoming heat and glare, tinting enhances the solar panels’ ability to efficiently produce energy for the RV. Essentially, it’s a prudent decision for those thinking about equipping their RV with solar panels.
