Get matched with top window tinters in Hospers, IA

Installing tinting on your own home windows is possible, but not recommended. It’s very easy to make mistakes that leave visible bubbles or imperfections in the protective coating. Not only does this look unprofessional and detract from your home’s curb appeal, but it also limits the usefulness of the tint and may still let sunlight and solar heat through your windows. If you attempt the application yourself and mess up, you’ll pay more for the wasted material and the labor to hire a tinting professional to fix the issues.

Some frosted glass sprays can handle the outdoors, but most of them aren't built for it. Sprays made for exterior use will say so clearly on the label. Anything marked “interior use only” can't hold up against rain, UV exposure, or changing temperatures without peeling, fading, or yellowing. Outdoor-rated sprays are typically more durable, but even then, proper prep and application matter. Before spraying anything outside, double-check the product instructions. If it doesn’t specifically mention exterior use, skip it. 

If you have bubble wrap lying around the house and you don’t care about the odd look, taping bubble wrap over a window is a very affordable way to insulate it. Another inexpensive option for insulating windows is to add new caulk around the glass. This step quickly cuts down on air drafts for older windows, and a tube of caulk only costs a few dollars. Adding plastic shrink film around the glass is another cost-effective option. You can purchase a kit of plastic film for a few dollars per window.

The costs range from $5 to $15 per square foot, depending on the film type, UV protection level, and labor.