The Business
Window tinting covers automotive, residential, and commercial applications. Auto tinting pays $200-600 per vehicle and takes 2-3 hours. Residential tinting pays $500-2,000 per home for UV and heat protection. The film cost is $1-3/sq ft, installed price is $6-15/sq ft. Mobile tinting is possible but a shop provides better results and throughput.
How to Start
Learn tinting through a manufacturer training course or apprenticeship (2-4 weeks). Buy bulk tinting film and tools ($2K-3K). Start mobile for auto tinting to minimize overhead, then rent a small garage space when volume justifies it. Target dealerships for wholesale tinting contracts — they need every car tinted before delivery.
Equipment Needed
- ▸Tinting film (bulk rolls)
- ▸Heat gun
- ▸Squeegee tools
- ▸Cutting tools
- ▸Clean workspace or portable setup
Licensing
Business license only
Monthly Search Volume
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Revenue Calculator
“Window tinting has two revenue streams that complement each other perfectly. Auto tinting is volume-driven and referral-heavy. Residential tinting is higher ticket and often comes from the same customers. Do both.”
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