How to Remove Window Tint

Window tinting can significantly enhance the privacy and aesthetic appeal of your vehicle or home, but there comes a time when the tint may need to be removed, either due to bubbling, peeling, or a change in appearance. Whether you’re a car enthusiast looking to update your vehicle’s look, a homeowner seeking to increase natural light in your space, or a professional preparing for a tint replacement service, understanding the various methods for removing window tint is essential. This guide will walk you through the steps and considerations necessary to effectively remove window tint, ensuring a clean and damage-free result. From assessing the type of tint and window material to choosing between DIY or professional removal, we’ll cover all the bases to help you achieve a successful outcome.

Understanding Window Tint Removal Methods

Embarking on the task of window tint removal requires a grasp of the various techniques at your disposal and an appreciation for the nuances of tint types and the glass they adhere to. Your removal strategy should be tailored to the specific kind of tint—dyed film, metalized, hybrid, carbon, or ceramic. Each possesses unique adhesive characteristics and responds differently to the removal process.

Equally crucial is the consideration of the window’s composition. Standard automotive glass is tempered for durability, but applying certain removal methods, especially those involving heat, demands a delicate touch. This safeguards any embedded features like defrost lines or radio antennas from accidental damage.

The decision to remove yourself or enlist professional services hinges on several factors. Your own level of comfort with the task, the tools at your disposal, the intricacy of the tint material, and your preparedness to handle any unintended damage that might occur are all pivotal in making an informed choice.

The specifics of tint varieties, the properties of the window glass, and weighing the pros and cons of DIY versus professional removal set the stage for an effective and unblemished window tint extraction.

Type of Tint and Window Material

The journey to successful window tint removal begins with identifying the type of film and the nature of the window to which it’s affixed. Automotive window tints generally fall into one of four categories:

1. Dyed Window Tint: Often the most budget-friendly option, this single-layer film can typically be removed with less effort.
2. Metalized Window Tint: This variant incorporates a metallic layer to reflect heat and UV rays and its robust adhesive may call for a more vigorous removal method.
3. Hybrid Tint: Merging the qualities of dyed and metalized films, hybrid tints can present a removal challenge due to their enhanced adhesive strength.
4. Carbon and Ceramic Tints: These high-end options offer superior heat rejection without metal, and their resilience can translate to a more meticulous removal process to avoid adhesive remnants.

The bond between film and glass varies, necessitating a tailored approach to removal. For example, while dyed films may surrender to peeling with relative ease, metalized or ceramic films might require the application of steam or heat to loosen their grip.

The glass itself is a factor not to be overlooked. While tempered to withstand stress, not all automotive glass is the same—some feature delicate lines for defrosting or antennas that the incautious use of heat or scrapers could compromise. In particular, tints on the interior side pose a risk to these elements during removal.

Understanding the specific tint and the window’s characteristics is vital to not only efficiently strip away the film but also preserve the integrity of your vehicle. Opt for a removal method that is compatible with these aspects to ensure a seamless and damage-free outcome.

Determining DIY or Professional Removal

When it comes to deciding whether to remove window tint by yourself or to enlist the services of a professional, several key factors come into play:

1. Complexity of Removal: The task’s difficulty varies with the type of tint and the characteristics of the window. High-end tints or those on delicate glass may warrant the precision of a seasoned expert.
2. Experience and Skill Level: Your familiarity with vehicle maintenance and your dexterity with tools will influence this decision. If you’re adept at such tasks, a DIY approach could be within reach. Otherwise, professional help can prevent unintended damage.
3. Tools and Equipment: Reflect on whether you can access the specialized tools outlined previously. Without these, the expertise of a professional might be your safest option.
4. Time Commitment: Consider if you can allocate the necessary time to master and execute the removal process. Opting for a professional can be a time-saver, though it comes with a higher price tag.
5. Risk of Damage: Weigh the potential for accidental damage against your ability to remedy it. Professionals often back their work with insurance and warranties, providing an extra layer of security.
6. Cost Consideration: Budget constraints may sway you towards a DIY approach, but for some, a professional service’s convenience and guaranteed results are worth the investment.
7. Safety Concerns: If your chosen method involves hazardous chemicals or high heat, it’s crucial to be comfortable with these risks. A professional’s expertise can mitigate these concerns, ensuring a safe and successful removal.

By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can make a well-informed decision on the best route to take for your window tint removal needs.

Preparing for Tint Removal

Embarking on the window tint removal journey requires thoughtful preparation to ensure the process unfolds smoothly. This means having the right tools at your disposal and creating an optimal workspace.

To begin, assemble the necessary equipment. This could range from a heat gun, hair dryer, or steamer to soften the tint to razors or scrapers for peeling purposes. You may also need a concoction of soapy water in a spray bottle or a commercial adhesive remover to tackle the sticky residue. Protective gear is also paramount; gloves and safety glasses are necessary when dealing with chemicals or heat.

Next, consider the environment where you’ll be working. A well-ventilated space is crucial, especially if chemical removers are part of your toolkit. An open garage or an outdoor spot, weather allowing, could serve well. Ensure the vicinity of the windows is clear of debris and that you have ample space to move freely, safeguarding both the vehicle’s interior and exterior from harm.

By meticulously setting the stage for tint removal, you’ll be better positioned to execute the task precisely, reducing the likelihood of mishaps and ensuring a pristine finish.

Necessary Tools and Safety Gear

Embarking on the task of window tint removal requires a well-thought-out toolkit and appropriate safety equipment. Ensure you have the following items at hand:

• Heat Source: A pivotal tool in this process is a heat source. A heat gun or hair dryer will serve to weaken the adhesive bond. A fabric steamer will be indispensable for those opting for the steam method.
• Scrapers: To remove the tint without marring the glass, utilize plastic scrapers or, with extreme care, razor blades.
• Spray Bottle: A spray bottle will be your ally in evenly applying solutions, whether it’s a soapy mixture or ammonia, across the tinted surface.
• Adhesive Remover: Post-tint removal, a commercial adhesive remover will aid in eliminating any stubborn glue remnants.
• Protective Gear: Don gloves to shield your hands during the process, particularly when working with sharp implements or potent solutions. Safety glasses are also paramount to protect your eyes from any unexpected splatters or flying particles.
• Cleaning Supplies: Have microfiber cloths or paper towels at the ready for a streak-free clean-up of the windows after the tint is removed.
• Surface Protection: Garbage bags or sheeting will be necessary to safeguard the vehicle’s interior from drips or chemical spills during removal.

As you prepare your workspace, remember the importance of ventilation when dealing with chemicals. The setup should be conducive to the safe and effective use of these tools and protective measures.

Equipped with the right tools and safety gear, you’ll be set to tackle the tint removal process with confidence, ensuring your safety and your vehicle’s protection.

Setting Up Your Workspace

Creating an optimal workspace is paramount for safe and efficient window tint removal. Consider these elements to prepare your environment:

• Ventilation: A well-ventilated area is non-negotiable, particularly when working with chemical solutions. An open-air space or a garage with doors wide open will ensure good airflow.
• Lighting: Adequate lighting is crucial to discern the edges of the tint and to verify the complete removal of all adhesives.
• Space: Ensure ample room around the vehicle to move freely. Remove any nearby items that could obstruct your work or be damaged during the process.
• Surface Protection: Shield the car’s interior with drop cloths or old towels to prevent any potential damage from spills or scrapings.
• Window Accessibility: Position the vehicle so that each window is readily accessible. This may mean opening doors or rearranging items inside the car for better reach, particularly for the rear window.
• Tool Station: Organize a nearby station for your tools to keep them within easy reach, reducing the risk of accidental drops or misplacement.
• Waste Disposal: To maintain a clean workspace, a specific spot for discarding removed tint pieces and other waste, such as a bin or bag.

A thoughtfully arranged workspace bolsters safety and productivity and is key to achieving a pristine result in your window tint removal endeavor.

Heat Gun and Hair Dryer Technique

Utilizing a heat gun or hair dryer can be a highly effective strategy for removing window tint. Aim the heat source at a low to medium setting towards the edge of the window film. Maintain a safe distance of a few inches to protect the glass and interior from potential heat damage. As the heat loosens the tint’s adhesive, carefully lift a corner using a scraping tool or your fingernail.

Progress with the heat application, peeling the film away gently and steadily. Strive to detach the tint in as large sections as possible to simplify the subsequent cleaning process. Should any adhesive residue persist, a further application of heat followed by a gentle wipe with a microfiber cloth or paper towels should suffice, potentially with the aid of an adhesive remover.

Exercise patience throughout this process. Excessive heat or haste can lead to glass breakage or damage to sensitive components, such as defroster lines. A methodical approach with consistent heat application is crucial to avoid unnecessary repairs or damage.

Incorporate the safety measures and workspace preparations previously outlined to ensure an effective and damage-free tint removal experience.

Applying Heat Safely

When removing window tints with heat, prioritizing safety is essential. Consider the following guidelines to mitigate risk:

• Distance: Maintain a minimum two-inch gap between the heat source and the window to prevent excessive heat buildup, which could compromise the integrity of the glass.
• Motion: Employ a slow and methodical sweeping motion with the heat source to distribute warmth and avert localized overheating evenly.
• Heat Settings: Start at a lower heat setting and incrementally increase the intensity to effectively soften the adhesive without inflicting damage.
• Touch Test: Regularly assess the glass temperature with a quick touch. If it’s uncomfortably hot, pause and let the area cool down to a safer level.
• Continuous Monitoring: Vigilantly observe the reaction of the tint and glass to the heat. Should any distortion or bubbling occur, cease heating and allow the window to cool.
• Protective Gear: Reiteration is warranted for the use of protective gloves and safety glasses to prevent burns and shield your eyes from any unexpected debris or vapors.

By adhering to these safety protocols, you can confidently apply heat to remove window tint while preserving both your vehicle and personal well-being.

Removing Tint and Adhesive

After the tint has been adequately warmed, it’s time to remove it from the window gently. Start by carefully lifting the film’s edge and peeling it off. Endeavor to detach the film in as large sections as possible to minimize the residual adhesive and fragments.

Should the film rip, simply reheat the remaining sections and continue peeling. Maintain a steady and gentle pull to avoid leaving bits of film that are more troublesome to remove.

Following the film removal, you may find that adhesive residue lingers on the glass. To tackle this:

• Reapply Heat: Gently warm the adhesive residue to soften it for easier removal.
• Scraping Technique: Employ a razor scraper for windows without defroster lines or a plastic scraper for all others. Angle it slightly and push with care to avoid scratching the glass.
• Adhesive Remover: For persistent adhesive, apply a commercial adhesive remover, allow it to penetrate as directed, and then wipe clean with a microfiber cloth or paper towel.
• Persistence Pays Off: You may need to repeat the heating and adhesive removal process, especially for tenacious areas.

By judiciously applying heat and using the proper techniques, you can ensure the complete removal of both tint and adhesive, leaving your windows pristine and undamaged.

Soap and Scrape Technique

The soap and scrape technique presents a heat-free alternative for removing window tint, which can be particularly beneficial for those wary of potential heat damage to their windows or vehicle’s interior.

Commence by liberally spraying the window tint with a soapy water solution concocted from water and a squirt of liquid dish soap in a spray bottle. Saturate the tint thoroughly and allow the solution to soak in for a few minutes to loosen the adhesive.

Once the film has absorbed the solution, start peeling the edges. If you encounter resistance, reapply the soapy water to maintain moisture and facilitate removal. Aim to remove the film in as large sections as possible to minimize leftover adhesive.

With the film off, take a plastic scraper—opting for plastic reduces the risk of scratching—and carefully remove any remaining tint pieces and adhesive. Work delicately and keep the scraper at a shallow angle to the glass.

This method requires a gentle hand and patience but can be very effective in preserving the integrity of the glass while removing the tint. It’s a viable option for those looking to avoid the heat application altogether.

Creating an Effective Soap Solution

Crafting the right soap solution is pivotal for the soap and scrape method’s success. This concoction is both a lubricant and an adhesive solvent, easing the tint removal process. To concoct an optimal solution, follow these guidelines:

• Optimal Water Temperature: Warm water is your ally here, as it enhances the soap’s ability to break down grime, thereby boosting its overall cleaning prowess.
• Choosing the Right Soap: Opt for a dishwashing liquid renowned for its grease-cutting capabilities. Such formulations are gentle on various surfaces and loosen the adhesive’s grip.
• Proper Proportions: Aim for a mixture of roughly one teaspoon of dish soap per gallon of water. This balance ensures a slick mixture that facilitates tint removal without excessive foaming.
• Gentle Mixing: Stir the solution carefully to integrate the soap thoroughly while keeping foam to a minimum, as excess suds can obscure your view of the tint and underlying adhesive.
• Spray Bottle for Application: A spray bottle is your best bet for an even spread across the tinted surface. It also simplifies the reapplication process, should the need arise.

With your solution mixed, it’s ready for action. Make sure to have ample quantity on hand to saturate the tinted area thoroughly and to reapply as you progress with the removal.

Scraping the Tint Without Damage

Precision meets patience in the scraping stage, as you aim to strip away the film and adhesive without marring the window. Here’s how to achieve a clean removal:

• Choosing the Correct Scraper: Select a scraper that’s suited to your window type. A razor blade may suffice for glass windows devoid of defroster lines, but a plastic scraper is recommended for others to prevent scratches.
• Initiating Removal: To begin, identify a corner or a loose edge of the tint. Gently slide the scraper underneath at a shallow angle, employing smooth, deliberate strokes to peel away the film.
• Consistent Pressure: Apply even pressure throughout the process, steering clear of erratic movements that could cause the scraper to veer off course and scratch the glass.
• Addressing Stubborn Residue: You may encounter patches where the adhesive clings on stubbornly. In such cases, moisten the area again with your soap solution, allowing it to penetrate before you resume scraping.
• Finesse Over Force: Rely on your technique, not brute strength, to dislodge the tint. Excessive force is more likely to damage the window or the tool.
• Safety Precautions: Use protective gloves to shield your hands from any sharp edges of the tint or scraper. Safety cannot be overstressed, especially when working with potentially hazardous tools.

With a careful approach and steady hand, you can strip away the tint and adhesive, leaving your windows pristine and undamaged.

Steam Removal Method

Embracing the steam removal method offers a gentle yet effective approach to stripping away window tint. Ideal for windows equipped with defroster lines, this technique minimizes the potential for damage that more aggressive heating methods might cause.

To embark on this method, equip yourself with a fabric steamer or a steam cleaner designed for commercial use. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to fill the device with water and heat it up. Once the steamer is ready, begin at the top of the window and methodically work your way down, allowing the steam to envelop the tint film and loosen the adhesive beneath.

As the steam works its magic, the tint will begin to detach. At this point, gently pry up a corner using a plastic scraper or your fingertips. Continue to peel the film, applying steam as needed to maintain the adhesive’s pliability. This technique often permits the removal of the tint in sizeable sections, streamlining the process.

While steam is a user-friendly agent for this task, caution is advised to prevent burns from the hot steam and water. Proper handling ensures a safe and efficient removal process.

Using a Fabric Steamer

Leveraging a fabric steamer for window tint removal marries the benefits of heat and moisture to dissolve the adhesive without compromising the integrity of the glass. To utilize a fabric steamer effectively, consider the following steps:

• Preparation: Fill the steamer’s reservoir to the recommended mark and power it on. Allow the unit to generate a steady stream of steam before proceeding.
• Starting Point: Identify an accessible corner or edge of the tint to begin. Hold the steamer’s nozzle a short distance from the tint’s surface, roughly one to two inches.
• Steam Application: Gently guide the steamer across the tint’s edge, allowing the steam to seep behind the film. Keep the nozzle in motion to prevent excessive steam buildup in one spot.
• Tint Removal: As the adhesive softens, cautiously lift the film’s edge with a plastic scraper or your fingers. Apply steam to the area just before your progress to keep the adhesive malleable.
• Reapplication: Should you encounter stubborn sections, reapply steam and wait briefly before attempting to peel the tint again.
• Safety Measures: Exercise caution with the steamer to avoid burns. Wear protective gloves and ensure the workspace is well-ventilated to disperse moisture and adhesive vapors.

Adhering to these guidelines will help you harness the power of a fabric steamer for safe and effective window tint removal.

Peeling and Cleaning After Steaming

Once the steam has worked its magic, loosening the adhesive beneath the window tint, it’s time to proceed cautiously. Begin at a corner or an edge where you’ve directed the steam, and initiate the peeling process with a delicate touch.

• Gentle Removal: Ease the tint away from the glass gradually, maintaining an angle close to the surface to minimize the risk of ripping. This technique lets you remove substantial portions simultaneously, streamlining the process.
• Consistent Steam Application: Keep the steam flowing just ahead of the area you’re working on. This ensures the adhesive remains pliable, facilitating a smoother peel and diminishing the chances of leaving behind any sticky remnants.
• Dealing with Difficulties: In the event of a tear, reapply steam to the affected area and use a plastic scraper to lift the edge carefully. It’s important to remain patient and meticulous to avoid harming any sensitive components, such as defroster lines.
• Addressing Adhesive Leftovers: A direct blast of steam can soften it for easier removal if you encounter any stubborn adhesive after the tint is gone. Wipe the area with a soft cloth or employ a plastic scraper for any persistent spots.
• Pristine Finish: With the tint fully removed, it’s time for the final cleanse. A spritz of window cleaner or a return to the soap solution will eliminate any lingering adhesive and streaks, ensuring your window is crystal clear.

By marrying the gentle force of steam with a careful peeling technique, you’re set to achieve a clean, tint-free window that looks as good as new.

Ammonia and Sun Technique

Harness the sun’s power with the ammonia and sun technique, an ingenious approach that combines the sun’s warmth with ammonia’s solvent capabilities. This method is particularly effective on a day graced with abundant sunshine, enhancing the heat needed to weaken the tint’s adhesive.

Begin by affixing a plastic sheet to the window’s exterior, creating a seal that concentrates the solar heat. On the interior, liberally spray the tint with an ammonia-based solution, taking precautions to safeguard the vehicle’s interior and your respiratory health. A mask and proper ventilation are essential to mitigate the risks associated with ammonia vapors.

Once the window tint is saturated with ammonia, seal the interior side with another plastic sheet. This creates a greenhouse effect, working in tandem with the ammonia to dissolve the adhesive bond. Allow this setup to bask in the sunlight for at least one hour before you start the removal process.

As you peel back the tint, any residual adhesive can be wiped clean with a cloth or if needed, treated with additional ammonia. While this method does involve careful chemical handling and exposure to the elements, it stands out as a practical solution for those seeking to remove window tint without specialized tools.

Safe Ammonia Application

When utilizing ammonia as a solvent for window tint adhesive, it’s imperative to prioritize safety due to its strong fumes and potential skin irritants. Adhere to the following safety measures for a secure ammonia application:

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Don gloves to shield your skin and don safety goggles to protect your eyes from splashes. A mask or respirator is also crucial to avoid inhaling harmful vapors. Ensure you’re in a space with ample ventilation, preferably outside or within an open-air structure.
• Interior Precautions: Before ammonia use, safeguard the interior of your vehicle by draping a protective layer, such as a drop cloth or plastic sheeting, over the surfaces. This step is essential to prevent any corrosive damage to the car’s interior finishes.
• Spray Bottle Technique: A spray bottle is the ideal tool for ammonia application. Adjust it to emit a fine mist to minimize runoff and ensure a more precise application, focusing on the tint’s edges and corners where the adhesive is typically more tenacious.
• Dilution Strategy: To mitigate the ammonia’s potency, consider diluting it with water. A common ratio is equal parts ammonia and water, but this should be tailored to the adhesive’s strength and any local environmental regulations.
• Efficient Application: Spray the tinted area generously, paying special attention to the periphery. After spraying, seal the interior side of the window with a plastic bag cut to size. This containment strategy enhances the ammonia’s efficacy by preventing evaporation.
• Procedure Timing: Allow the ammonia to work on the adhesive for the time specified in the main article’s Ammonia and Sun Technique section. Following this, responsibly dispose of any materials soaked with ammonia in compliance with hazardous waste disposal protocols.

Exercising caution with ammonia ensures your safety and helps maintain your vehicle’s integrity throughout the tint removal endeavor.

Leveraging the Sun’s Heat

Harnessing the sun’s warmth can significantly aid in loosening window tint adhesive. To capitalize on this eco-friendly heat source, consider these steps:

• Optimal Parking: Position your car in a spot that receives unobstructed sunlight, ideally during the midday hours when the sun is most potent. This strategic placement is designed to elevate the temperature of the window, softening the underlying adhesive.
• Exterior Insulation: Affix a clear plastic sheet to the outside of the windows you’re treating. This sheet acts as an insulator, magnifying the sun’s heat to expedite the adhesive’s weakening. Secure the plastic’s edges with tape to the car’s frame to optimize heat capture.
• Time Frame: Allow the vehicle to bask in the sun for at least one hour, though this duration may vary with the day’s weather conditions. Periodically inspect the tint’s pliability; when it yields to gentle prodding, it’s ready for the next step.
• Peeling Process: Begin the removal process at a corner or edge of the tint. The heat should let you peel off larger sections smoothly, reducing the likelihood of tearing and leaving minimal adhesive residue.

This method is not only energy-efficient but also enhances the simplicity of the window tint removal process, especially when used in tandem with other techniques, such as ammonia application.

Final Cleanup: Removing Adhesive Residue

With the tint film now a thing of the past, your attention must turn to the pesky adhesive residue that clings to the glass. If not addressed, this sticky aftermath can mar the pristine look of your windows. Here’s how to tackle it:

• Concocting a Potent Solution: A homemade blend of vinegar and water in equal measure can work wonders, or you might opt for a specialized adhesive remover that’s safe for glass. These concoctions are formulated to weaken the adhesive’s grip without harming the window.
• Gentle Application: Employ a microfiber cloth or a gentle towel to administer the solution. Work in a circular pattern over the sticky areas, allowing the liquid to seep in and start dissolving the adhesive.
• Scraping Strategically: When you encounter more stubborn adhesive, a razor blade held at a low angle or a plastic scraper can be your ally. Glide it across the window carefully, maintaining a consistent direction and light pressure to prevent scratches.
• Persistence Pays Off: Sometimes, the residue demands multiple treatments. Moisten the area thoroughly, let the solution sit momentarily, then wipe or scrape again.
• Polishing Phase: After you’ve bid farewell to all traces of adhesive, a final cleansing with either a fresh batch of window cleaner or your vinegar mix will ensure a gleaming, streak-free surface.

This meticulous cleanup is the final flourish in your window tint removal symphony, leaving your glass immaculate as if the tint had never been.

Cleaning the Window Post-Removal

The tint and adhesive have been dispatched, but your mission culminates with a comprehensive cleaning to return the window to its original state of clarity. Here’s the wrap-up routine:

• Scrutinize the Surface: Start by closely examining the glass for any adhesive that may have escaped notice. Leftover glue can act as a magnet for grime and obscure the glass.
• Lustrous Lathering: Deploy a premium glass cleaner or your trusty water-vinegar mix to bathe the window. Spritz liberally and use a soft sponge or lint-free cloth for a thorough scrub.
• Corner Care: The nooks and crannies of the window frame often harbor residual adhesive. Tackle these tricky spots with a soft brush or a cloth snugly wrapped around a scraper, ensuring no residue remains.
• Drying with Precision: Post-cleaning, a squeegee or fresh microfiber cloth will serve you well in removing any remaining solution. Steer clear of paper towels to avoid lint and streaks.
• Final Touch: A touch of glass polish might be in order for that enviable streak-free gleam. Buff the window with another clean cloth until it radiates.
• Ongoing Care: Establish a routine cleaning schedule to preserve the window’s newfound clarity. Regular upkeep will simplify future cleaning tasks and keep your windows looking their best.

This final cleaning step showcases the fruits of your labor, maximizes visibility, and elevates the vehicle’s aesthetic, sealing the deal on your window tint removal endeavor.

1. What are the necessary steps to remove window tint?

Begin by using a hairdryer or heat gun to heat up the film, making it easier to peel off. Then, clean the glass surface with soapy water, removing any residue.

2. What tools are needed for window tint removal?

Obtain a hairdryer or heat gun, a razor or glass scraper, a cleaning solution, and a clean cloth. Utilizing these tools ensures a clean and damage-free window.

3. Is professional help needed to remove window tint?

Professional help is not always necessary. With the appropriate tools and a bit of patience, window tints can be removed by individuals at home, saving money.

4. How do you mitigate potential risks when removing window tint?

Avoiding rush during this process is crucial. Heating tint sections for a long time and gentle removal help minimize potential glass damage.

5. Why should the residue be cleaned off after removing the tint?

Cleaning the residue helps to restore the glass’s clarity and smooth feel. Besides, it prepares the surface for any future tint installation.

6. Can heating damage the window when removing the tint?

No, suitable heating will not damage the window. Heating aids in loosening the adhesive, making the tint removal easier. Remember to avoid overheating.