The Dangers of Mobile Window Tinting

When it comes to tinting your car windows, the idea of someone coming to your home or office to do the job sounds incredibly convenient, doesn’t it? You don’t have to take time off work, drive to a shop, or wait while the job is done. Unfortunately, who and where your vehicle's windows are tinted greatly impacts how your vehicle looks in the short term and long-term.

Convenience vs. Quality: Mobile Window Tinting Doesn’t Guarantee a Clean Environment

Mobile window tinting services often highlight their convenience. And let’s be honest, there’s only 24 hours in the day. Any time we can make something more convenient, we like to do so. However, the convenience of a mobile service can sometimes mean compromising on quality.

Would you want to undergo open heart surgery in a clean and sterile operating room or in your garage? The answer is a no brainer. While we’re not surgeons, the same principles apply. Mobile window tint services are done outdoors or in your garage. These environments expose your vehicle to dust, debris, and fluctuating temperatures which can all interfere with the tinting process.

When contaminants are introduced or the temperature fluctuates too greatly, imperfections in the window tint are likely to occur, such as:

• Bubbles
• Streaks
• Peeling

In a professional shop (like our Lynnwood shop, conveniently located just outside of Seattle), these issues are minimized because the environment is specifically designed for such work. 

Substandard Materials: XPEL Only Sells to XPEL Certified Installers

Another danger of mobile window tinting lies in the materials used. Reputable shops invest in high-quality tinting films, like XPEL window tint which is the best on the market. XPEL does not certify mobile window tint services as a professional installer and will not sell their products to them. 

Lower quality films can present numerous issues. Above and beyond the ones listed above, they can also:

• Turn purple
• Lose their UV blocking effectiveness
• Make it difficult to see at night

Legal and Safety Concerns: Ensuring You’re Compliant with Washington State Laws

Window tinting laws vary from state to state. Adhering to these laws is crucial. Professionals in established shops are usually well-versed in local regulations and can ensure your tinting is within legal limits. Mobile services may not always be as diligent. 

If your tint is too dark, you risk being pulled over and fined. Worse, you might have to pay to have the tint removed and reapplied correctly. This not only adds to your expenses but also increases the time and hassle you were initially trying to avoid.

Warranty and Accountability Issues: XPEL Warranties Only Apply to Professionally Installed Window Tint

Reputable window tinting shops often offer warranties on their work. Some window tint manufacturers also offer warranties on their product, with some restrictions. In the case of XPEL window tint, the warranty covers the life of the car — as long as the tint was applied by an XPEL certified technician.

With mobile tinting services, warranties can be a gray area. Some mobile providers might offer warranties, but good luck tracking them down if something goes wrong. Without a physical location, they can be hard to reach. You may end up paying out of pocket to have the work corrected elsewhere.

Do You Have Any Questions?

If you have any questions about best practices or how window tint should be applied to your vehicle, contact our office. We can answer your questions and offer a free quote.