Many homeowners with frosted glass are curious if they can add tint to block out sunlight and heat. Adding tint to glass has several benefits and can add visual appeal to a home. So, is this possible?
Yes, it’s possible to tint frosted glass. You can add tint to the frosted or unfrosted side. The process is similar to tinting standard glass. You may need to use special window tints meant for frosted glass. Other people advise using special adhesives, as the tint may have trouble adhering.
So, are you ready to add tint to your frosted glass windows or doors? The process is straightforward, and we cover everything you need to know in the article below. Read on for more information.
How Does Window Tinting Work?
Window tint controls the amount of sunlight entering a room and achieves other desirable results. Tint can be applied to a glass pane’s exterior or interior surface.
Many manufacturers use laminates and films from durable polyester that holds its shape when exposed to excessive sunlight.
Tinted windows can have a flat, metallic, or mirrored appearance when viewed from the outside. Different materials offer various practical benefits, like improved privacy or reduced sunlight.
In addition, many tints can block out substantial amounts of heat and save money on energy bills, while others can be purely aesthetic.
Can You Tint Glass That Has Been Frosted?
Yes, it’s entirely possible to add window tint to frosted glass. You can add window tint to the frosted side or the unfrosted side.
However, you may need special window tints for frosted glass windows. Other individuals recommend special adhesives, as the tint can have difficulty adhering to the frosted surface.
All in all, it’s possible—but you might need to go through some trial and error to determine what works best for your situation.
What Materials Do You Need to Tint Frosted Glass at Home?
Applying tint to glass surfaces can transform a home and has several benefits. But before you can reap the rewards of your hard-earned effort, you’ll need a few materials to get started:
- Window tint
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
- Metal or plastic straight edge (on Amazon)
- Wet lint-free towel
- Ammonia-based window cleaner (on Amazon)
- Dry lint-free towel
- Roller or squeegee (on Amazon)
Types of Window Tint
You can select three types of window tint: solar, privacy, and colored materials.
- Solar Tint: Solar is the most popular type of tint applied to glass surfaces. The tint protects the windows from sunlight damage and allows light in without excess heat. Solar tints can help keep cool air from leaving your home and save you money on energy bills.
- Privacy Tint: Privacy tint is ideal for homeowners that want more seclusion. This tint prevents outsiders from looking into your home, whether they be prying neighbors or other visitors.
- Colored Tints: Colored tints are an excellent choice if you want to add visual appeal to your home with little effort. This tint can add unique patterns that transform an environment without paint or new installations.
Optional Materials
Some window tint films require you to spray soapy water on the glass surface during application. The soapy water helps the tint adhere to the glass surface.
You might want to pick up a spare spray bottle (on Amazon) online or from your local hardware store, just in case.
If your project calls for it, you might also need a step stool (on Amazon) or ladder (on Amazon) to access hard-to-reach areas.
How to Tint Frosted Glass
Tinting frosted glass is similar to any other window tint application. You’ll need to prepare the surface, measure the material, and apply the tint. Luckily, there are a few universal steps you can follow.
Follow the instructions below to ensure your window tint comes out successfully.
Step 1: Measure Your Glass Surface
The first step is to measure your window pane accurately. Be sure to measure the window from top to bottom on both sides. Include any trim details when you measure the surface.
If you’re tinting a frosted glass door, you’ll need to measure both ends of the glass.
It’s best to measure the glass surface at least three times to ensure you have accurate measurements. Furthermore, many brands provide charts online that can help you determine the size of tint you need for your window.
Step 2: Purchase Enough Material
The first part of preparation starts in your shopping cart. You can find window tints from local home-improvement shops or online.
Ensure you have accurate measurements of your glass pane when you purchase the material. You’ll want to buy roughly 10% more tint to account for mistakes.
Step 3: Wipe Down Your Glass Surface
The second step of preparation is to wipe down your glass surface. Use a wet towel to wipe off any larger debris from the surface. You don’t need to include soap—plain warm water will work fine.
Step 4: Spray Ammonia-Based Cleaner and Dry
After removing large debris from the glass surface, you will need to use an ammonia-based window cleaner. Any ammonia-based window solution will work, but products like Windex (on Amazon) and Gunk (on Amazon) are easy to find.
Liberally spray the cleaner on the glass surface. Thoroughly dry the surface with a towel. Do not move on to the application process until the glass surface is completely dry.
Step 5: Measure and Cut Your Window Tint
The first part of the application process is to measure and cut the window tint.
It’s best to measure your glass windows at least three times to ensure you have accurate numbers. After that, you’ll want to place the tint film against the surface to double-check the measurements.
Cut the window tint material with scissors and use a straight metal edge to guide your cuts. The straight metal edge will help prevent uneven cuts.
Step 6: Install the Window Tint
You can install the window tint film onto the frosted glass surface. Again, the application process is straightforward, but you may need another set of hands to hold the material in place while you apply it.
Follow your products’ specific guidelines, as instructions can vary from material to material. For example, some products require you to spray soapy water on the glass to help the tint adhere to the surface.
You can use a small tinting material roller to prevent air pockets and bumps from underneath the material. Some products include rollers or squeegees (on Amazon) upon purchase, but you’ll need to double-check.
Step 7: Smooth Out the Tint
After applying the tint, you can use a metal or plastic straight edge (on Amazon) to smooth out the material. Some products recommend starting from the center and working outward, but this can depend on the material.
If you don’t have a straight edge, using a credit card as a DIY solution is possible, but it’s not advised. Additionally, some users recommend wrapping the straight edge in a towel or cloth to avoid damage.
Step 8: Trim Off Excess Material
You’ll want to trim off the margins or any excess material. You can use a standard craft knife (on Amazon) or box cutter to trim the edges. Be sure to take your time and go slowly to avoid accidental damage.
Step 9: Wipe Off Any Water and Finish
Lastly, you can wipe off the surface with a dry lint-free towel. Some glass tints require you to spray soapy water to adhere to the material, so this step may not be necessary for all users.
Should You Remove Frosted Glass Before Tinting?
Removing frosted glass before tinting isn’t necessary for most applications. Instead, you can apply window tint film directly to the surface and trim excess material.
However, if you’re tinting frosted glass in precarious positions—like a second-story window—you might want to remove the glass before application.
Whether you decide to remove the glass before tinting depends on your preferences and the type of application.