When investing in an important protective item, it's a must to take care of it the proper way to ensure that it serves its purpose longer than expected. Take for instance window tints. You pay for the film used in tinting residential and commercial windows and for the installation service and so as an end user, you are naturally expected to do regular maintenance of your windows to gain the tint's maximum benefits.

Window films used in residential window tinting differ from those used in commercial buildings and structures. Window tints used in homes are lighter in color and less reflective. Residential films can reject up to 70 percent of the sun's ultraviolet rays and can provide very light shading. Commercial films are normally dark and reflective. You may have noticed glass windows and doors of some shops and hotels are darker and sometimes with a mirror effect. This is because these commercial establishments get a higher amount of sunlight due to the larger size (floor to ceiling) of their windows and glass doors.

Films used in homes and commercial structures are made of metal alloys and ceramics. These two materials are more stable in their color and are not likely to change color with time. Films used for automotive tinting are different because they contain dye which turns purple after time.

The lifespan of window films depend on the type of film used, the type of glass, the way the window was constructed, the compass orientation of the glass and the geographical location of the building. Some films may last for up to 25 years or more. Most film manufacturers provide a warranty of their window films for at least five years. Commercial window films have a warranty of five to 10 years while most residential applications have a lifetime warranty. The manufacturer's address and contact number should appear on the warranty certificate for easy communication should issues crop up after installation of the window film.

To make your window tints last long, make it a point to clean your windows and glass doors regularly. Quality films usually have special coatings that are scratch resistant but they still need to be kept clean. Get rid of dust and dirt by using a soft clean cloth, soft paper towel or synthetic sponge. For drying purposes, a soft cloth or squeegee will do. Remember to use only the regular glass cleaning solution without the harmful abrasive materials.

In looking for a window tinting company, there are some things you need to learn first before making a decision.

Find out how long the firm has been in the business, the types of film they use, the warranty they offer and ask to see a sample of their work.