Can You Really Install Home Window Tinting on Your Own?

In short, yes.

You can DIY your window tinting installation. However, that doesn't mean you necessarily should. It just depends on your experience level, your budget, and how much free time you have. 

Tinting your windows isn't a simple job. If you don't have the right tools or don't know what you're doing, it's easy to make mistakes. Even just one mistake can leave the window film bubbly, which can obscure the outside view and detract from the overall appearance of the room. 

Because of this, you might have to end up spending more money on extra film (to fix your mistakes) or on a professional window tinting company to take over for you. If this happens, your DIY job could end up being more expensive than hiring a professional in the first place. If you don't have a lot of wiggle room in your budget, it might be better to stick with the service you know will work properly. 

Finally, think about how many windows you have in your home. Tinting each of those windows one by one can take a long time. Between work, looking after the kids, and all your other daily responsibilities, you might not have room in your schedule for all these windows. 

So Is DIY Window Tinting a Bad Idea Then?

Not necessarily. You can tint your own windows successfully, but just make sure you consider all the factors mentioned above first. If you know what to expect, have everything you need, and take your time, you can get good results installing window film by yourself.

How to Install Home Window Privacy Film

The first step of installing privacy film on your windows is making sure you have all the right tools. If you don't have everything on this list, head to the store and do some shopping first. 

You'll need: 

• Exacto knife 
• Squeegee 
• Lint-free cloth
• Scraping tool (like a plastic card squeegee) 
• Spray bottle 
• Liquid window tinting solution 
• Window film 

If you aren't able to buy window tinting solution when you purchase your privacy film, you can make it at home. All you need is one teaspoon of baby shampoo mixed with one gallon of bottled water. 

Step 1: Clean the Window 

Use the baby shampoo and water solution to wash the surface of the glass. Make sure you don't leave any smudges behind by using the squeegee and lint-free cloth to dry the window. 

Step 2: Cut the Film 

Measure your window and cut the film to the right size. Make sure you give yourself an extra inch or two on each edge to make the application easier. And always measure your window at least two times to ensure you have the proper dimensions! 

Step 3: Apply the Film 

Start by spraying a generous amount of the baby shampoo/water solution over the window. Then, working from the top to the bottom, line up the edges of the privacy film with the window edges. The film should stick over the window slightly, and you can trim off the excess later. 



The solution should make it easy to slide the film into place if you need to adjust it as you go. Do your best to keep the film as flat and straight as possible. 

Step 4: Remove Bubbles 

Any air that gets stuck between the window and the privacy film will cause bubbles. Spray another lawyer of solution over the top of the film, then use your squeegee or scrapping tool to push all the air out of the edges. 



You might have to go over the film several times to remove all the air. If this happens, spray more solution over the film between each round. This will prevent your tools from scratching or damaging the film. 

Step 5: Secure the Edges 

Press the edges of the privacy film firmly into the edges of the window. Make sure you pay special attention to the corners so the film doesn't peel off later. 

Step 6: Trim Excess Film 

Take your Exacto knife and cut off any film that sticks over the edges of the window. Be careful not to scratch the glass underneath the film, though. Move slowly and don't apply too much pressure. 

Step 7: Remove Any Remaining Moisture 

Push out any remaining moisture with your scraping tool. After this, it should finish drying within an hour. However, it will take several days for the privacy film to cure completely, so be careful with your window for the first week. 

Don't hesitate to get in touch with us today to learn more! Or, if you're ready for a free estimate, you can click here to get started!