Have you ever thought about installing window tint, either on your own or with the help of a professional? You may have wondered if layering the film would improve the quality and performance of your windows. Sadly, the answer is no; layering will not enhance their qualities in any way.
The window tint warranty will be voided
Layering window tint will void the warranty on your film. Manufacturers of quality window films typically offer a limited lifetime warranty against bubbling, fading and peeling. They also guarantee that their product will not change the colour of your windows over time; however, layering window tinting materials can cause discolouration and other issues.
If you want to apply a different window film or if you need to replace the existing tint, you should always remove it altogether before applying the new one.
The chances of bubbling and peeling increase
Layering films can also lead to bubbling and peeling, due to poor adhesion between the layers of material. Performing a spotless installation on a double layer of window tint is practically unattainable without bubbles or uneven film edges. Layering window films will only highlight any dirt lying on top of the layers, rendering a less than desirable result.
The performance of the window tint will suffer
Layering window films can interfere with their performance. Quality window films are designed to be thin, so they can absorb up to 99% of harmful UV rays. However, if you layer multiple products together, the performance will suffer as it becomes thicker and less effective at blocking the sun’s rays.
It will be hard to see through the window
Layering window tint will also make it much harder to see through your windows, due to the increased thickness. This can be particularly problematic if you have a darker shade of window film, as it will become much more difficult to see out at night.
The heat blocking will be the same
While one may assume that double-layering window tint can offer more protection against heat and glare, this is not the case. Adding an additional layer of the film does not provide better insulation than a single layer would.
You may think layering window tint will make your room any cooler, but that is not the case. The cooling properties of film remain consistent when it’s applied to either side of your windows, so extra layers won’t add anything else in heat blockage. In reality, thick window film layers can absorb more heat, potentially leading to broken glass or seal failure.
Can you install an interior and exterior layer of window tint?
On cars, it is illegal to have exterior window tint installed. On home and commercial buildings you can install window tint on both the exterior and interior of a window in order to help with heat rejection and/or heat retention. However, it must not be done on the same side of the window.
You can give your home or commercial windows an extra layer of protection by installing both interior and exterior window films – this will not only reduce heat but also significantly minimise glare. Double-layering the same film won’t be as effective as using one on either side of the glass.
In conclusion, layering window tint is not a good idea as it will void the warranty on your film and can cause discolouration. Layering films can also lead to bubbling and peeling due to poor adhesion between layers of material, and interfere with performance. If you’re looking for additional protection or heat reduction, installing an exterior window film in addition to an interior one may be beneficial – however this should never be done on the same side of the window.
