More Profitable Than Window Tint and Paint Protection Film?!?!

When customers come into a tint shop or a paint protection film (PPF) shop, they’re already thinking about one thing: protecting their car. Whether it’s shielding the interior from harmful UV rays or safeguarding their paint from chips and scratches, these customers value the benefits of film. But what about their windshield?

In a recent conversation, Manny shared insights into why windshield protection film is the logical next step for tint and PPF customers—and how shops can integrate this product into their offerings.

Why Customers Already Get It

One of the most important points Manny raised is that customers who buy tint or PPF are already in the mindset of using film to protect their vehicle. Tint goes on the inside to block heat and UV rays, and PPF goes on the outside to protect the paint. Windshield film? It’s just another way to protect a critical—and expensive—part of their car.

“The windshield is a huge surface area on any vehicle,” Manny explained. “Customers already see the value in protecting their paint or interior. Adding film to the windshield is just the next step.”

The Economics of Windshield Protection Film

Beyond its practical benefits, windshield protection film also makes sense from a business perspective. The product applies to nearly every car, and installation can be quick and efficient. Manny broke down the numbers:

• Installation takes about 20 minutes.
• The average retail price is around $500.
• Material costs are typically $200.

That leaves a $300 profit before overhead or labor. For shops already installing tint or PPF, adding windshield protection film could be a game-changer.

Why Windshield Film Is So Important

While chipped paint can often be touched up at a low cost, a cracked windshield is an entirely different story. Replacing a windshield can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $2,000—significantly more than the price of windshield protection film.

“Windshields are exposed to so much debris and wear,” Manny said. “Most people don’t realize how vulnerable they are until it’s too late. That’s where windshield film comes in—it’s an affordable way to avoid a costly problem.”

Managing Customer Expectations

One key takeaway from the discussion is the importance of setting clear expectations. Windshield protection film isn’t the same as tint or PPF—it’s clear and applied to the outside of the glass. Customers may not immediately understand how it works or what to expect from it.

“You have to explain it,” Manny emphasized. “Make sure customers know what it can and can’t do. The more transparent you are, the more likely they are to trust the product and see its value.”

A Learning Curve Worth Embracing

For shops, there’s a learning curve when it comes to offering windshield film. From installation techniques to sales strategies, it’s a new product that takes some getting used to. However, Manny believes the benefits far outweigh the challenges.

“Think about when you first started offering tint or PPF—it took time to learn, but now it’s second nature. Windshield film is no different, and it has the potential to add real value to your services,” he said.

Windshield protection film isn’t just another product—it’s a natural extension of the services tint and PPF shops already provide. By tapping into the customer mindset and explaining the value of protecting the windshield, shops can offer a product that not only helps customers but also boosts their bottom line.