In case you’ve spotted the gradual transformation of the tint on your car window into a purple shade, you’re probably wondering what is going on. It can be upsetting to see the cool tint you once liked turn into an odd purple shade. But why do car window tints turn purple? The reason for this is UV radiation, the type of material used in the tint film, as well as the surrounding environmental factors. Let’s analyze this so you can understand the science behind the situation further—and how to prevent it.
The Science Behind Purple Tint Discoloration
Photochemical Breakdown: When Molecules Rebel
The primary reason why your tint changes to purple or gets ‘suncooked’ is due to a breakdown photochemical reaction. This refers to a scenario where the molecules on your window tint film start to break apart due to extended UV exposure. When your car is parked outside during long hours of the day, the window film of the car starts getting damaged because UV radiation is penetrating it. After prolonged exposure, these rays begin to modify the dye or adhesive that was used for tinting, resulting in fade and purple shifting of the tint. This is very common for lower-quality window tints which do not have sufficient UV filters.
Moreover, heat catalyzes this breakdown reaction. The increase in temperature when the car is on the sun causes the adhesive layer on your window film to soften, leading the tint film to separate and change color. This is the reason why better quality window films with improved UV protection or ceramic films may assist in slowing down the process and therefore maintaining the desired color for a longer time.
Dye vs. Ceramic: Material Matters in Color Stability
Dye-based tints, which are often found in budget options, discolor or fade the easiest among other options. Why is that so? Because, as a rule of thumb, cheaper called tints block sunlight using blue dyes and as time goes on, the dye molecules break down which results in the tints turning purple. Unlike others, ceramic does not break down or discolor due to UV Radiation which makes it a better option. Furthermore, it offers superior protection and preserves the tints for a longer duration which is the main reason why professionals recommend ceramic tints. In addition to all these benefits, you would witness a smart investment for a long-lasting outcome.
Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences between dyed and ceramic window films:
| Feature | Dyed Window Film | Ceramic Window Film |
| Material | Plastic film dyed with colorant | High-tech film material with ceramic microparticles |
| UV Protection | Moderate UV protection | Superior UV protection, blocking over 99% of UV rays |
| Heat Insulation | Average heat insulation | Excellent heat insulation, effectively reducing interior temperature |
| Visibility Clarity | May affect visibility, especially with dark films | Clear visibility, with high transparency from ceramic material |
| Durability | Prone to fading or discoloration, less durable | Extremely durable, resistant to fading and discoloration |
| Scratch Resistance | Weaker, easily scratched | Stronger, superior scratch resistance |
| Price | Lower price | Higher price |
| Weight | Lighter weight | Heavier weight |
| Installation Difficulty | Easier to install | More complex installation due to technical requirements |
| UV Degradation Resistance | Poor, UV exposure leads to fading and aging | Excellent, highly resistant to UV degradation |
| Visible Light Transmittance | Moderate, lower light transmission with dark films | High, providing better visibility clarity |
| Lifespan | Shorter, typically 3-5 years | Longer, typically 8-10 years |
The Triple Threat: 3 Key Factors Behind Purple Tint Discoloration
1. UV Radiation: The Primary Culprit
The leading cause of purple tint discoloration is UV ray exposure. If a film contains an inadequate UV protective layer, over time, the molecular structure of the window tint will deteriorate under UV rays. This breakdown triggers a chemical reaction in the dye used on the tint, which often results in a purple shift. To avoid this shift, it is essential to have high-quality window films with high UV protective layers. These films help prevent color changes and simultaneously protect your skin and the interior of your car from harmful UV rays. The deterioration caused by UV rays is gradual, but it can result in a substantial color shift, as well as a weakened film, rendering it both unsightly and non-functional.
2. Adhesive Deterioration: Weakening the Bond
Another contributing factor could be adhesive failure. As time passes, the adhesive that binds the film onto your car’s window starts deteriorating particularly if it is low-quality tint. The breakdown will start showing with bubbling, peeling, and alteration of color on the tint. The combination of heat, humidity, and ultraviolet radiation can greatly weaken the adhesive and make it lose its grip on the glass. As the adhesive deteriorates, it compromises the film’s capability of absorption, therefore worsening the color change. Most times, these combinations of factors lead to a car window having a noticeable purple tint. This is not only unpleasing to the eye, but it defeats the purpose of installing the film in the first place.
3. Chemical Interference: Accelerating Discoloration
The shift to purple is enhanced by certain chemicals. Air fresheners, rain repellents, and harsh cleaning materials that are common car products can react with the tint window’s dye or adhesive. These chemicals are powerful because they break down materials, making their degradation rate skyrocket. These reactions greatly speed up the aging process of your tint and cause unwanted color changes. To prevent this, do not use abrasive cleaners and keep your windows away from harmful chemicals. The right approach helps one to keep the integrity and color of the window tint for a longer period.
Understanding these three components (UV radiation, adhesive failure, and chemical exposure) will help you keep the car window tint. All types of tints will eventually succumb to the elements over time, so proper installation is advisable to ensure optimal application.
Why ClearPro’s Nano-Ceramic Films Resist Color Shift
The Nano-Ceramic Films by ClearPro is known for blocking color shifts, which is one of the many reasons it stands out in the window tinting world. Unlike traditional tint films, ceramic coatings utilize a unique tactic by blocking UV rays without using a dye to absorb sunlight. Because of this, the tint does not dull or change into purple in color over time. Nano-ceramic films utilize cutting-edge technology that contains ceramic particles with a high efficacy for UV radiation in the film. This serves two purposes – protecting your car’s interior and window film.
These films provide an unmatched capability of blocking out UV radiation – perfect for looking for something that can stand the test of time. Since other tints rely on blue dyes, ceramic films tend to degrade over time, making them the perfect choice. This means that your windows are not only free from discoloration, but you can also have peace of mind knowing that the film will not turn purple on you.
- All Window Tint
- Magnetron Sputtering Window Tint
- Nano Ceramic Window Tint
When to Replace Purple Tint: 5 Key Indicators
Sometimes, the fading of your window tint may not be immediately noticeable. Beyond the purple discoloration, there are several other signs that suggest your window tint has reached the end of its life. Here’s what to look for:
1. Bubbling or Wrinkling
Window tints that are coming bubble or wrinkle usually are signs that the film is aging or it was poorly installed. Not only does this spoil the look of the film, but also its functionality. Bubbles obscure vision while wrinkles restrict the film’s ability to stick to the glass and reduce its shield powers. If these problems cannot be resolved, replacing the tint would be the best option.
2. Surface Scratches or Damage
Anything from surface scratches to marks on your window tint could also be a cause for concern. When the film gets scratched or marred, especially on parts that deal with UV blocking or heat resistance, the film becomes almost ineffective. These damages erode the strength of protection your tint provides, and as a result, it may have to be changed to bring comfort and safety back to the vehicle.
3. Blurry Visibility
Foggy tints are usually more than just an aesthetic problem – it can cause safety issues too. If the tinting on your windows appears to be foggy while driving, your visibility is compromised which not only endangers you but others on the roads as well. This problem is common as people get older or if the tinting done is of low quality. If your attempts at cleaning the screen don’t help, it is another indication that the tint needs replacement.
4. Peeling or Lifting Edges
Window films can start peeling after a period of use and the driving force behind this could be constantly changing temperatures or poor quality installation. Once the edges of the film start peeling away, the protective features of the film will begin deteriorating and it will no longer tightly adhere to the glass. This not only puts the longevity of the window film in question, but more importantly, it affects the beauty of the car.
5. Reduced UV Protection
The window tint’s primary purpose is to provide some degree of protection against harmful UV rays. If you observe that the cabin is hotter than usual or feel like you are being exposed to more UV radiation than before, the film’s UV-blocking capabilities have likely reduced in efficiency. The film may have suffered from wear and tear or even suffered from UV radiation’s degradation. With the clear deterioration of the UV protection, it is quite evident that the film has to be replaced so that the benefits, which it provided earlier, can be obtained again.
When getting a replacement, ensure that the new window tint has high UV-blocking and ceramic technology features, as this will eliminate discoloration and degradation. Along with that, it will make certain that the tint’s lifetime and efficacy are laser-focused, effectively removing the frustration of having to switch it out too soon.
Myth Busting: What Doesn’t Cause Purple Tint?
Let’s debunk some of the myths. For starters, cheap window tints are not the only reason why purple tint occurs. Cheaper films tend to fade more easily, but other issues such as environmental exposure, poor installation, and even chemical reactions can also be a reason. Some other people even think that purple window tint is proof of a product that was poorly manufactured; that is not usually the case. It is commonly a feature of some tint films as they age. Therefore, don’t be overly quick to accuse the installer or the manufacturer.
One more myth is that purple-tinted windows only occur with low-quality window films. High-end films, including ceramic ones, tint turning to have a color shift too, although at a repaid slower rate than cheaper films. So while UV radiation is the most important factor, environmental conditions are also very important.
Conclusion
Have you ever asked yourself, “Why does tint turn purple?” Or does it perhaps pique your curiosity? The roots of the problem lay in a combination of ultraviolet radiation, low-quality materials, and poor environmental factors. Knowing the underlying reasons that cause purple tint will allow you to make better choices for your next window tinting product. As a rule of thumb, ceramic films always deliver UV protection and retain color, so invest in good quality window tints to avoid having to deal with the nuisance of purple tinting later on.
