FAQs

How Long Does Window Tint Last?

At Purple Orange Tinting, our professionally installed window films typically last 10 to 20 years, depending on the type of film and environmental conditions. High-quality commercial films—especially those designed for solar control or safety—are built to be durable and long-lasting. Factors like sun exposure, window orientation, and proper maintenance can influence lifespan, but we use premium films backed by manufacturer warranties for long-term performance and peace of mind.

Does Your Film Film Come With A Warranty?

Yes, all of our window films come with a manufacturer-backed warranty. Depending on the type of film, warranties can range from 5 years to 10 years, covering issues like bubbling, peeling, fading, cracking, and discolouration. We only work with trusted brands to ensure long-lasting performance, and our professional installation helps protect your investment from day one. We’re happy to walk you through the warranty details for any specific film you’re considering!

How Long Does Installation Take?

Most standard vehicle tinting jobs take 1 to 3 hours, depending on the type of vehicle, number of windows, and the film you choose. High-end or custom vehicles with complex curves or frameless windows may take a little longer to ensure a perfect fit and finish.

For residential and commercial installations, the timeframe depends on the size and number of windows, the type of film being applied, and ease of access to the glass. A small home job may be completed in a few hours, while larger properties or commercial spaces may take a full day or more. We always provide an estimated timeline during your quote and do our best to work around your schedule to minimise disruption.

Can I Clean Tinted Windows Normally?

Yes, just avoid abrasive cleaners and tools. It is recommended to avoid using any nitrate based cleaners directly on the tint as this can cause adhesive failure eventually. We’ll provide aftercare tips after installation or you can refer to our Aftercare Instructions Page.

Will My Tint Turn Purple Like Old Cars That I See?

Great question! The purple tint you’ve seen on older cars is usually due to low-quality, dyed films that break down over time. At Purple Orange Tinting, we use high-performance, colour-stable films that are engineered to resist fading, bubbling, and discolouration. Our films are made with advanced materials like ceramic, carbon, or metalised layers, not basic dyes—so they stay clear, effective, and great-looking for years to come. Plus, they’re backed by a warranty for added peace of mind.

What Is The White Line Around The Outside Of My Tinted Car Window?

The white line you’re seeing is likely the “ceramic edge” or “dot matrix” area on your car’s window. This part of the glass has a textured, raised pattern that doesn’t allow the film to fully adhere like it does on smooth glass. As a result, the film may not lay completely flat in that area, creating a lighter or whitish outline.

It’s completely normal and doesn’t affect the performance of the tint. In most cases, it becomes less noticeable over time. It's worth noting that some cars have more pronounced dot matrix borders than others. When choosing aftermarket tinting this unfortunately cannot be avoided, only reduced through choosing a lighter tint.

What Is The Petrol/Oil Slick Look In The Tint?

This is a thin layer of water trapped between the glass and the tint. Once dry after 3-5 days this hazy look will have disappeared and the whole window will be a uniform colour. Our installers push all trapped air out of the film. As much water as possible is removed, but a small amount will remain for a few days. The films we use have microscopic holes in that allow trapped water to escape and so these water bubbles will dry out when given time.

Is Tinting Legal On All Car Windows?

Under current UK law it is legal to tint all car windows with some limitations that must be met:

• Front Windscreen: Must allow at least 75% of light through.​
• Front Side Windows: Must allow at least 70% of light through.
• Rear Side Windows & Rear Windscreen: No legal restrictions; however, drivers must maintain clear visibility through these windows, especially at night.​

Our expert fitters can advise and explain where needed for your particular vehicle. At Purple Orange Tinting, we ensure that all our tinting installations comply with UK regulations, using materials that meet legal standards for light transmission. All our installers carry a police standard tint meter to check this and ease any worries you may have.