How Long Does It Take To Tint Your Windows at Home?

Latitude 33 Window Tint Blogger • March 22, 2023

Have you ever wondered how long it would take to tint your windows at home? Here's a complete guide on the entire process.

Tint Your Windows

A recent survey by Pew Research found that 69% of Americans favor the U.S. working toward becoming carbon neutral by 2050. In addition, we've come to realize that small changes at home can reduce our carbon footprint. And as any South Carolinian will tell you, air conditioning is a major energy guzzler in most homes.


That's just one of the reasons why discerning customers are choosing residential window tinting. It can help to reduce solar gain, making your home more comfortable and reducing air conditioning costs. But how long does it take to tint your windows?



Read on to find out the answer.

Window Tinting Timeframe

The answer is - it depends.


Usually, it takes less than a day to install window film in an average-sized house. However, there are three main variables to consider, namely:


  • The number of windows
  • The size of your windows
  • The style of your windows

How Fast Do Window Film Installers Work?

On a typical day, a professional window film installer can put in around 200-400 square feet of window tint in 8 hours. Now, wait, you may think, that's a big range! That comes down to the size and style of your windows.


The average house in the U.S. has around ten windows. The most common style is double-hung windows, which are between 24 - 48 inches wide and 36 - 72 inches tall. So let's calculate an average home based on ten large double-hung windows.


A window measuring 48 inches x 72 inches has a surface area of 24 square feet. Multiply this by 10, and the total surface area is 240 square feet. Therefore, if your windows are straightforward, installing your window film should take less than one day.

Tricky Windows

Large square or rectangular windows are fairly easy to tint. The installer can use large pieces of film, and the cuts they will need to make are minimal. Plus, preparing large windows is quick and easy.


However, it's a different story if you have French pane windows. These traditional windows look stunning, with their small panes of glass interwoven with wood, vinyl, or metal strips. But those small panes require a lot of intricate cutting and application.


So, if you're fortunate enough to have lots of these windows in your home, expect the installers to take a little extra time. 

Preparation Time

For obvious reasons, all kinds of window tint require sparkling clean windows before they can be installed. If the windows are not in good condition, the installer will have to spend longer cleaning them before the installation can begin. This can also slow down the process.


Another consideration is the existing window film. If you are replacing your window tint, removing the old film and cleaning the windows will take time. As you'll know if you've ever tried to remove a label from a jar, removing every last vestige of old adhesive can take a lot of time and effort.


Removing the old film and preparing the windows will likely take longer than installing the new film!

Other Considerations

Of course, all installers are individuals. Some can work quickly and produce excellent results. Others prefer to take a little more time on their work. 


To get an accurate estimate of how long tinting your windows will take, most companies will provide a free home estimate service. Speak to a local window tinting firm about their residential window tinting services

home window tinting benefits

Careful Installation Pays Off

We understand that having window tint installers in your house can be inconvenient. They have to go into every room, and you may want to be at home while the work is happening. But we're sure you'd agree it's better to take your time than rush and do an inferior job.


Professional window film installers know they need to get the film completely smooth and airtight. Bubbles are unsightly and are a sign that the film was not installed correctly. Also, if the film is not airtight, condensation can form, which will undo the benefits of the film.


This is why it pays to hire professional window tint installers rather than doing it yourself.


Although it doesn't look like you need any specialist skills, getting it right is tricky. Seasoned installers work with all kinds of window tint day in and day out. They have a knack for getting it perfectly adhered and looking fantastic.

Benefits When You Tint Your Windows

Window tinting can make your South Carolina home a more pleasant and secure place to live.


First, you'll experience reduced exposure to harmful UV rays. Your home will feel cooler, helping you to save money on your cooling bills. 


South Carolina is one of the states most at risk of hurricanes. Natural disasters like these powerful storms can cause windows to blow out, posing a health risk to your family inside. Window tints can help to hold the window in place and minimize damage, even if the glass shatters.


Finally, you'll be able to enjoy your TV and electronic devices without glare! Plus, at night, you'll be able to see outside clearly, with no glare from internal light sources.

Choose Latitude 33 for Home Window Tinting

It usually takes an experienced installer a day or less to tint your windows. With this small investment of time, you'll receive outstanding protection that lasts for years. Plus, you'll keep your home cooler, more secure, and more comfortable.


Latitude 33 Window Tint is the name to trust in West Columbia, SC, for all your window tinting needs. We have been in business for almost 60 years, and all our films include a lifetime manufacturer's warranty.


Click here to request a free estimate for residential window tinting today!

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