DIY Guide for Rear & Side Window Tint Installation
Beat the Heat (and the Cold) with a professional-looking window tint — done by you!
Tinting your vehicle windows doesn’t just improve looks — it helps regulate your cabin temperature year-round. In summer, it keeps you cooler and protects your skin and interior from harmful UV rays. In winter, it keeps warmth in and adds an extra layer of insulation. Tinted windows also increase safety by helping shattered glass stay in place during accidents.
So let’s get tinting — with PolyFilm.
What You’ll Need
- Soapy water solution in a spray bottle
- Lint-free cloths
- Sharp safety knife
- Squeegee or hard card
- Adhesive tape (for peeling backing liner)
- Optional: Tools to remove interior panels, brake lights or trim if needed
Step 1: Clean the Window Glass Thoroughly
Whether you're working on the rear or side windows, preparation is everything.
- Clean both sides of the glass with a soapy water solution.
- DO NOT use household or ammonia-based cleaners.
- Dry with a lint-free cloth to avoid any debris.
- Ensure all grime, dust, and fingerprints are removed.
Tip for rear window: Remove the brake light, speakers, or parcel shelf if needed for better access.
Step 2: Rough-Cut the Film (Using Exterior of Glass as Template)
- Unroll the window film and identify the slick backing liner (this covers the adhesive side).
- Lightly spray the outside of the window (rear or side) with your soap solution.
- Place the film on the exterior glass, backing liner facing you.
- Trim around the edges, leaving a 10mm–25mm (1 inch) border for final fit.
- Use natural curves of the window as your guide.
- For side windows, roll the window down slightly to trim the top edge.
Important: Be cautious not to scratch your car while trimming.
Step 3: Remove the Backing Liner
- While the film is still on the exterior of the window, use two small pieces of adhesive tape (one on each side) to peel the backing liner away from the tint film.
- Lightly spray the exposed adhesive side with soapy solution.
- Wet your fingers before handling to avoid leaving fingerprints.
- For rear windows, you can place the removed liner inside the car as a protective mat while working.
Step 4: Apply the Film to the Inside Window
For Rear Window:
- Slide into the car and hold the film by the top corners.
- Position the film on the interior rear windscreen, adhesive side facing the glass.
- Lightly squeegee the center to hold the film in place.
- Stretch the film outward from the middle to reach the corners.
- Squeegee down the film in sections, pushing from the center outwards to remove air bubbles and excess solution.
For Side Windows:
- Spray both the inside of the window and adhesive side of the film.
- Place the film onto the inside glass (start at the top).
- Squeegee just the top section of the film first.
- Wind up the window carefully.
- Then, squeegee the lower section.
- Trim edges with a 3mm gap at the top to accommodate rolling up/down.
- For best results, gently tuck edges under rubber seals where possible.
Optional: If possible, remove the door panels before starting for a cleaner, professional finish — though it’s not essential.
Final Touches: Trimming & Smoothing
- Use your knife to trim any overhangs, matching the shape of the glass as close as possible.
- Firmly squeegee the entire film, always working from the center toward the edges.
- Push any leftover soapy water and air bubbles out toward the edges.
- Wipe excess liquid with a lint-free cloth.
Aftercare Tips
- Do not roll down side windows for 3–4 days while the film cures.
- It’s normal for the film to appear cloudy right after installation. This will clear up as it dries in sunlight or warmth.
- For any leftover bubbles or moisture, use a hard card to gently push them toward the edges.
You Did It!
With patience and the right technique, DIY tinting with PolyFilm gives you a sleek, professional look — and better comfort, safety, and UV protection all year round.
