FAQs

What is the difference between water-activated and pressure-sensitive adhesive?
All of our films come with the adhesives already on them. There is a clear protective liner which must be removed and discarded before installation of the material. Water-activated adhesives are dry to the touch when the protective liner is removed, not tacky or sticky. To activate the adhesive, you must get it wet with a solution of soapy water. This allows you to position and handle the film easily in the installation process. Most of the residential and commercial films we sell use water-activated adhesives. Pressure-sensitive adhesive is sticky to the touch when you remove the clear liner. Like the dry adhesive, however, you must still get it wet with mounting solution prior to installation.

What tools will I need to install my window tinting film?
You will need a spray bottle for your mounting solution and a razor blade and scrubbing pad for the preparation of the glass. You will need a squeegee, hard card, and knife for the installation of your tint. You will need a small amount of liquid (Joy) dish soap, and water to make your cleaning and mounting solution.

Some of your films say that they are “not recommended for dual-pane windows.” What does this mean?
Most all of our residential and commercial films are tested and rated “dual pane safe.” The ones that are not, state "not recommended for dual-pane windows" in the description of the product. None of our automotive films are dual-pane safe, and should not be used on dual-pane windows. Dual-pane windows are the type that have two pieces of glass with a spacer between them at the perimeter of the glass. You can tell by looking at the edge of the glass for the spacer, it is usually made of shiny aluminum. If you are not sure, check with the manufacturer of the windows. Even though we have tested the products to be dual-pane safe, Starco Distributing is not responsible for any loss or damage which may occur from using these products. The terms are clearly stated in our terms and conditions.

What is VLT?
This stands for visible light transmission. This means that after the film has been applied to your windows, the VLT percentage is the amount of light that the film will allow to transmit through the glass.

Do you carry one-way mirror tint?
We carry films that are highly reflective on the outside, yet less so on the inside to reduce glare. They work just like a pair of mirrored sunglasses, which means that for the most part, during the day, anyone looking in the window will see their own reflection instead of seeing through the window. There are no films, however, that can completely block people from seeing through a window when the light inside is greater than the light outside. So at night, people will be able to see in, even if the visible light transmission is very low.

What is the darkest shade of film I can use on my car windows?
You can use as dark a film as your local or state law allows. We recommend that you click on our State Law Chart, to find out the legal limits in your area. If you have poor night vision, we recommend that you choose a medium or light film to see out easier at night.

Why are there separate films for residential and automotive? Isn’t it all the same?
There are two main factors which separate residential films from automotive films. The first is adhesive. Most of our residential films have a water-activated adhesive, which means it is not sticky to the touch, and you use the mounting solution to activate it during installation. The automotive adhesive is sticky to the touch, making it more aggressive for automotive applications. The second factor is the functionality and construction of the product. All of our films are constructed for optimal performance for what they are intended to be used for. We do not recommend that you mix and match films (i.e., automotive film on residential or vice versa).

What brand of film do you sell on your site?
We only sell films that meet our professional quality standards. All of our films are the same films used every day in the industry by professionals. Our brand are Axis Window films and HanitaTek window films. We have it made for us to meet our specifications and standards. The manufacturers of our films come from many parts of the world, and the United States. Most films are built in stages, one part of the manufacturing process is done in one location, then the product is shipped to another manufacturer to finish the construction of the film. Most recognizable leading brands are constructed in this way, and then boxed with the brand name sold to dealers.

How long has Starco Distributing been in business?
Starco Distributing is proud to have been serving the industry since 2000. We are the leader in dristibuting professional quality window tinting products.

Can I pay for my order by check?
If you need to pay by check, you will need to call in or email your order. We will let you know the total price for your order. You then place your check, certified check, or money order in the mail to us. Once we receive your check and it clears processing, we will then ship your order. This process takes much longer that if you use a credit card on our website.

How long does it take for the film to dry?
Cold weather and humid conditions can lengthen the dry-out time, while warm, sunny weather will speed it up. Dry-out times can vary from a few days to as long as six months, but the film will eventually dry completely. Moisture that is trapped during the installation process can cause bubbles or a slightly cloudy appearance. This is normal. Do not try to “pierce” or cut the film in an attempt to drain the trapped moisture. This will damage the film. Just be patient and allow the film to dry completely on its own.

How soon can I clean my windows after installing window tinting?
Do not clean the film for 30 days following installation. This allows the film to adhere securely to the window. When you do clean your windows, make sure to use mild cleaning solution and fresh, clean, soft materials. To avoid scratching the film, do not use abrasive cleaning materials, bristle brushes, or cloth that contains dirt particles. Even some paper towels are rough enough to scratch your film, causing a dull finish over time.

How will tinting affect my plants?
Tinting will reduce the amount of light available to your plants, so variegated or light-green plants should be considered when choosing your tint shade. Most tropical plants require less light and heat than clear windows provide, and may even benefit from the added sun protection. Less light, however, will slow their growth. Some plants may go into shock while adjusting to the new lighting conditions. If this continues for longer than a week, we recommend that you move the plant to a location where it will receive more light.

Will tinting my windows keep my furniture from fading?
Window film will not completely eliminate fading, but installing it is one of the best things you can do to block the factors that cause it. Window film blocks 99% of UV rays, which are responsible for about 40% of the fading equation. Heat makes up about 25%, visible light about 25%, and miscellaneous factors bring home the final 10%. Short of keeping your home furnishings in darkness, window film is your best defense against fading.