Tools for the Job
Having the right tools can make all the difference in achieving a smooth, professional finish. Some of the basic tools you’ll need include an Ulfa knife, squeegee, spray bottle, and a measuring tape. There's a few more special tools I have included that I use every day.
I wanted to make it super easy for you guys, so I have linked everything through Amazon.
Add tools you think will make your life easier, but I only use 1-2 of each of the tools below.
Red Dot: essential for cutting the tint film to the right size. It allows you to trim the film precisely to fit the window, making sure there are no overhangs or gaps. A sharp, clean knife is key here to avoid jagged edges or accidental damage to the film. I use 2 of these. It makes it easy to use a blade in the box of film and one to cut the film off instead of putting a single blade in the box, although I do that too from time to time.
- Red Dot Ulfa
- Stainless Steel Blades - There are less expensive options, but these are the best ones. They're oiled and will not rust.
- Carbon Blades - These are EXTREMELY sharp. Good to have some different blades if you like these more.
Hard Squeegee + Additional Squeegees: another must-have tool. This is used to press the tint film onto the glass and remove any air bubbles or excess water. You’ll use it to smooth out the film after applying it to the window, ensuring it sticks evenly without wrinkles or bumps. Squeegees come in different shapes and sizes, but they all work to give the film a clean, tight seal on the window.
- Hard Squeegee
- Small Squeegee - This is for french panels
Soft Squeegee: Used for the cleaning process before and after installing the film.
Spray Bottle: filled with a mixture of water and a bit of soap. This is sprayed onto the glass and the adhesive side of the film before applying. It helps to position the film without it sticking too quickly, allowing you to adjust and align the film before it fully adheres to the window.
- Zep - These are just hands down the best. The best pull of the bottle, meaning they don't break.
Hard Cards: You will use this to either cut the film, or tuck the corners. There's other uses for laying the corners down with the film. This is a multipurpose tool. Use it as much as you want.
- Felt Card - These felt cards are soooo nice, love'em.
Scraper: This is what you'll use to clean the glass and do removals. Good to have a couple of these.
Measuring Tape: Needs no introduction haha, use this for measuring the glass and film. Good to have a couple of these.
With these tools, you’ll be able to handle residential and commercial window tinting projects with confidence and get a clean, professional look every time.