Kia K8 Window Tinting: Lumar Vertex 700 Review - 67% Heat Rejecti

Revitalizing Your Kia K8 with Premium Window Film

The Kia K8, a sedan celebrated for its sophisticated design, can unfortunately see its aesthetic diminish over time due to aging window tint. Exposure to UV rays can cause the film to fade to a purplish hue and develop unsightly bubbling or 'crazing.' This review details a K8's transformation at Today's Car Pyeongtaek, where old, degraded tint was replaced with the high-performance Lumar Vertex 700 window film, highlighting the significant benefits of a premium upgrade.

Addressing the Issues of Degraded Window Tint

The K8 featured in this case study had window tint that had clearly passed its prime. The faded, discolored film detracted from the vehicle's premium look and, more importantly, had lost its protective capabilities. Old tint loses its effectiveness as the dyes break down, leading to increased interior heat and accelerated damage to the dashboard and other cabin materials from UV exposure. Before applying new film, the vehicle was meticulously taped to protect paint and trim, and the old film and adhesive residue were thoroughly removed.

The Lumar Vertex 700 Advantage

Lumar Vertex 700 is distinguished by its multi-layered construction, incorporating advanced materials that create a deep, rich 'Sapphire Black' appearance, reminiscent of luxury European car finishes. Beyond its striking aesthetics, the core benefit of Vertex 700 lies in its exceptional performance. This window film achieves a Total Solar Energy Rejection (TSER) of up to 67%, meaning it effectively blocks a significant portion of heat-generating solar energy, including UV and infrared rays.

Precision Installation for Optimal Performance

The installation process began with the complete removal of the old tint and adhesive. Using a heat gun, the film was carefully peeled away, followed by meticulous scraping and solvent application to eliminate all residue without scratching the glass. Cleanliness is paramount; any remaining dust or debris can lead to bubbles under the new film. For a vehicle like the K8, with its large, curved windows, this step requires exceptional care and specialized cleaning solutions optimized for window film application.

Installation process:

1. Thorough removal of old tint and adhesive residue.
2. Meticulous cleaning and preparation of the glass surface.
3. Precise cutting of the Lumina Vertex 700 film to match window dimensions.
4. Careful application of the film using a slip solution to minimize air bubbles.
5. Squeegeeing to ensure a smooth, secure bond and proper adhesion.

The application of the Vertex 700 film involves creating a lubricating layer between the film and glass to allow for precise positioning and air removal. The film's advanced multi-layer optical filter structure, featuring a durable surface layer, an infrared-blocking mid-layer (often ceramic or metal oxide), and a strong adhesive layer, contributes to its impressive heat rejection capabilities. Optimal installation conditions, typically around 20-25 degrees Celsius, are crucial for achieving a flawless finish and ensuring the film cures correctly.