We’re diving into an exciting new window tint installation using the Avery Dennison Encore Supreme IR film. This new product boasts impressive clarity and top-tier performance, making it a strong contender in the window tinting market. We’ll be installing a 15% VLT (Visible Light Transmission) tint on a Model Y, and if you’re not familiar with the terminology, don’t worry—we’ll break it down step by step.
We’re installing this film on the Model Y Juniper (2026 Refresh) front frameless window.
What Makes Avery Dennison Encore Supreme IR Tint Special?
Avery Dennison’s Encore Supreme IR is a ceramic-based window film, which means it leverages advanced technology to provide superior heat rejection and UV protection. Here are some key specs of the 15% VLT version:
- 99%+ UV Protection – Helps keep your interior and skin safe from harmful rays.
- 81% Glare Reduction – Improves visibility while driving.
- 93% Infrared Rejection – Helps reduce heat buildup inside the car.
- 63% Total Solar Energy Rejection – Keeps the car cooler by blocking a significant amount of solar energy.
- 2-ply, 2-mil Lifetime Warranty – Ensures durability and longevity.
One thing to note about VLT ratings is that the lower the number, the darker the tint. A 15% VLT means that only 15% of light passes through the window.
One cool thing to note about this tint is that it has a deep black appearance rather than a bluish or purplish tint like other films on the market. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a pure black look.
Prepping for the Installation
Before getting into the actual tinting process, proper preparation is crucial for a flawless result. Here’s what we did:
- Cleaning the Windows: Using a Scotch-Brite pad and a squeegee, we thoroughly cleaned the glass to remove any dirt, debris, or oils.
- Tricking the Door Sensor: Tesla doors have a feature where the window slightly moves when opening and closing. To prevent issues, we manually triggered the door latch to keep the window in place.
- NOTE: Careful not to close the door while it’s tricked! It will hit the door trim and possibly break or damage your trim.
- Shrinking the Film: Unlike paint protection film (PPF), which stretches over curves, tinting film requires shrinking to fit concave surfaces correctly. We used a heat gun and applied a wet shrink technique to mold the film.
The Installation Process
Step 1: Cutting and Positioning the Film
Once the film was cut to match the window (We use a plotter.), we carefully positioned it to the outside of the window.
Step 2: Applying Heat for Shrinking
Tint film needs to be shrunk in only one direction to avoid creases or bubbles. Using a heat gun, we:
- Heated the film. Keep your heat gun moving so you don’t burn it.
- Pressed out “fingers” (wrinkles) gradually.
- Ensured the film laid flat against the glass with no overstretching.
Step 3: Installing the Film Inside
The final step involved peeling the liner and spraying the adhesive side with soapy water to prevent premature sticking. Once placed inside the car:
- We aligned the film carefully along the edges.
- Used a Blue Max squeegee to push out water and air bubbles.
- Applied gentle pressure at first, then increased firmness for a secure bond. We used a squeegee to apply light strokes initially, ensuring a smooth and secure fit. Then, apply heavier strokes as you go over it a couple more times.
- The goal is to align it with about a 1-2mm gap from the edge to prevent peeling over time.
Final Touches and Inspection
After installation, it’s essential to:
- Wipe down excess moisture to prevent streaking.
- Inspect for bubbles – Small ones typically settle over a day or two.
- Avoid rolling down windows for 7 days to allow the film to cure fully.
- Use a torch or heat gun to help the adhesive bond and remove final imperfections.
The Verdict: Is This DIY-Friendly?
One big question we had was whether this film is do-it-yourself (DIY)-friendly. While PPF and vinyl wraps are more accessible for DIYers, tinting requires specific techniques, like shrinking the film correctly. Some key takeaways:
- Ease of Installation: The film shrinks and molds well, making it a good candidate for DIY.
- Challenges: Reading the film and applying the right heat can take practice.
- Professional vs. DIY: Removing the window trim and speaker can improve results, but the template we used provides an alternative for those who want to avoid full disassembly.
Would you be interested in trying this tint yourself? Or is this something you’d leave to the pros? Let us know on our social channels or [email protected]!