Can Garage Door Windows Be Tinted? (Solved & Explained!)

Can garage doors be tinted? No, it is not a good idea to tint your garage door windows because it could cause a good quality window to break. This is because the tint film that goes over windows acts as a thermal layer and traps heat in the sealed area. If it heats up too much, the window could end up breaking.

What can I use to cover my garage door windows?

Just because tinted windows are a good option for your garage door, doesn’t mean that there aren’t other convenient ways to keep the windows covered. One of the best solutions is to replace the clear windows with frosted glass windows because it will still provide a quality light source but nobody can see inside. Other options include shutters, interior blinds, acrylics panels, or wrought-iron tableaux.

Is it legal to have tinted garage door windows?

There is no law that is preventing anyone from tinting their garage door windows. The choice is up to the homeowner, but it’s recommended not to because there is a high chance of the windows breaking. Most homeowners install the window film on their own and it could lead to a dangerous situation for them if the glass breaks.

Do you have to declare tinted windows?

Anytime you make changes to your property, you need to declare them with the insurance provider. Although tinted windows anywhere in your home likely won’t cause changes to your insurance rate, it’s best to be safe and declare them anyway. This will save you from running into any unwanted surprises later on.

Can plastic windows be tinted?

Most manufacturers recommend keeping tinted film away from plastic windows because the windows have the potential to outgas. When this happens, chemicals will release anything that the plastic has absorbed which will likely result in the film bubbling. When the tinted film is applied to plastic windows it becomes permanent so if you want it gone, you will have to replace the whole window.

How do I keep the sun out of my garage?

When the sun is shining through your garage door windows, it can heat up quickly and make it difficult for you to see the project you are working on. Instead of applying a tinted film, we recommend putting up an awning or any other type of window covering that is still breathable. This is an inexpensive way to block the sun while you’re working in your garage.

How do I keep my garage windows clean?

Luckily, you don’t need special products or equipment to keep your garage door windows clean. You can use any of the following products with a soft cloth or sponge (make sure it’s clean):

  • Mild dish detergent
  • Car cleaner
  • White vinegar and water mixture

You can wash the garage door in the same fashion that you would wash the windows on your car or house. However, the one real difference is that you can not use a pressure washer ever on your garage doors. Always use a garden hose instead because the stream from the pressure washer could crack the windows.

Can you see out of a tinted window?

The tint film used on tinted windows doesn’t fully block out the sun, so it’s still possible to see out of one. If the tint is on the darker side, it may be difficult to see out of it. One thing to keep in mind about tinted windows is that when the light particles are shining through, you may be able to see reflections on the other side.

What is the darkest legal tint for a garage door window?

It is legal to purchase total blackout window tint for your garage window, however, it is not recommended. A very dark tint will be good at preventing heat from the sun, but it could heat up the garage window quicker leading to a break. If you want blackout, it is safer to install a dark awning.

How much does it cost to tint windows in a garage?

If you decide to put tinted windows in a garage the price will vary depending on a few factors, such as:

  • Quality of tint
  • How many windows
  • Size of windows
  • Whether you use tint film or tint spray
  • Where you buy the window tint from

While you may see different prices when looking at tint options for your garage windows, it’s best to determine how many square feet each window is first. An average pricing estimate is between $5 to $8 per square foot. Many people are able to tint their garage door for under $100. 

Do I have to tell my insurance about tints?

If you want to tint your garage windows, it’s recommended to inform the insurance agency first. Since tinting your windows does modify them, you will be required to let your insurance provider know. This is because you need to inform the insurance company about any modification you make to the property, no matter how small it may seem.

How do you tint plastic?

If you have plastic windows on your garage door, you will not be able to use a window tint on them because it won’t stick. Any type of plastic window is resistant to tint because of the chemical structure. In this case, you will need to find another method to block the sun, such as an awning, curtains, or blinds.

How do you tint glass?

If you are determined to tint your glass garage windows despite the risk of them breaking, you will need to start by cleaning them thoroughly. Avoid using a window cleaner or any cleaner with ammonia, a detergent water mixture is the best choice. Once the window is fully cleaned off, wipe it off and measure the tint film. 

The tint film will be adhesive on one side, and you can apply it to the window directly. We recommend spraying some clean soap water to the window first so the tint stays in place. Once the tint is in place, spray it again with soap water so there is a thin layer. Using a knife, you can trim away any extra edges.