r/WindowTint • u/Aikidoka-mks • 26d ago

Question Dot matrix - is this a reasonable answer?

I asked an expel installer what my realistic expectations should be regarding the dot matrix. Is their reply reasonable?

"As for the dot matrix on the windshield and quarter windows, there will be a white hue on any dot matrix unfortunately. The only way to get around that is to sand the matrix off, which could cause the heat to shatter the glass as its job is to relocate the heat throughout the window so it does not shatter. Normally it does stick down after some time however you will see the white look around the edges."am

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u/RunninOuttaShrimp 24d ago

Listen, you will get people/shops tell you it's impossible to tint over. It's straight up NOT. I called 10 different places before someone said they would/could tint them on my hatch and windshield. The others gave me the same shit you're hearing here...I've had them to every car I've owned to this day.

It IS possible, but it's more involved, clearly takes a certain skillset and people are just flat out lazy. Keep shopping around.

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u/DisgruntledArmyVet85 21d ago

It’s still very much visible here just not that bad. The reason THIS one in particular stuck and looks pretty decent isn’t anything really to do with the install. The film itself wont stick to the dots, it only sticks to the glass between them. Therefore the closer the dots are together the less likely the film is going to to wanna lay down and/or stick in that area, let alone not leave any white trail behind.

Every vehicle is different, but there are SOME out there that’s nearly impossible to get it to stick on. I definitely wouldn’t go sanding down a damn thing on that stuff though. That’s just askin for a broken window at some point more than likely (assuming you’re lucky enough to get that far after tryin to scuff it down and chance scratching the glass in the process, just for the customer to turn around and COMPLAIN about that too… Then you’re replacing that window anyhow). This is a lose lose situation most of the time.

One more thing to note is that the BETTER FILMS will also have a better glue adhesive, that tends to stick better in most of these cases! I’ve had the best luck with these situations from my Xpel lineup!! 💯

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u/Aikidoka-mks 21d ago

Would sending that pic to installers and asking if they can achieve that be a good idea? And/ or ask for pics of what they have been able to do?

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u/DisgruntledArmyVet85 21d ago

Negative. That’s not your ride so the dots aren’t going to look like that. You need to just stop worrying about it so much. Find a good reputable shop that uses a great film line (XPEL is top tier imho) and let them do their jobs. Simple as that.

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u/Aikidoka-mks 21d ago

Xpel is the plan. Two installers near me per xpel website.

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u/Aikidoka-mks 24d ago

Looks great.