Is it normal to have bubbles after applying film?
3 Answers
It is normal to have bubbles after applying film. Here is an introduction to car film: 1. Introduction: Car film refers to applying a thin film-like material on the front and rear windshields, side windows, and sunroof of a vehicle. This film is also known as solar film or heat-insulating film. 2. Functions: Its main purposes are to block ultraviolet rays, reduce heat, prevent injuries caused by glass shattering, and reduce glare. Additionally, due to the one-way transparency feature of solar film, it helps protect personal privacy. 3. Principle: The film is made by vacuum deposition or magnetron sputtering technology to create multiple layers of highly heat-insulating metal coatings using materials such as aluminum, gold, copper, and silver. The outer shell electrons (free electrons) in these metal materials are generally not bound by the atomic nucleus. When exposed to light waves, the electric field of the light causes the free electrons to absorb the light's energy and oscillate at the same frequency as the light. This oscillation then emits light of the same frequency as the original light, which is called light reflection.
I've been in the window tinting business for many years. It's quite normal to have some small bubbles right after tinting, mainly because the film hasn't fully adhered to the glass surface yet, and the air hasn't been completely squeezed out. A good tinting technician will use a squeegee to gradually push them out, but sometimes small bubbles may remain at the edges or in the middle. These small bubbles usually disappear on their own within a week as the film gradually bonds more tightly. If you've installed high-quality automotive film that's heat-resistant and shockproof, the bubbles will vanish even faster. However, if the bubbles are too large or numerous enough to obstruct your vision, or if they persist after ten days to half a month, then there's a problem—it could be due to poor installation technique or inferior film quality. In such cases, don't try to poke at them yourself as you might scratch the film; it's best to return to the shop and have the technician inspect and reapply it. Pay attention to post-tinting care when driving, avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures, and just let the bubbles disappear naturally. Remember, professional installation is more important than anything else.
Friends, I've been driving for decades and have had my fair share of window tinting experiences. Don't panic if you see bubbles right after the tint is applied - it's actually quite common. The reason is simply that some air gets trapped between the film and the window, and the film hasn't fully set yet. Most small bubbles will disappear on their own within the first five days to a week without any intervention. However, if bubbles persist for more than two weeks, or if there are so many that they obstruct your view while driving, it indicates improper installation or contamination. I've encountered this before - when I chose an established tinting shop, there were significantly fewer bubbles. My advice: avoid washing your car or rolling down windows in rainy weather immediately after tinting. Be patient for better results. Safety first - never compromise by going to irresponsible shops just to save money.
