Why This Matters
Double-pane windows with low-e coatings perform well in cold climates where retaining heat is the goal. In California's mild winters and hot summers, the priority is solar rejection — which is where window film adds the most value.
Near Simply Solar in Berkeley, energy-efficient double-pane glass with low-e coatings can be enhanced further with retrofit film. This is especially problematic for historic or older home installations, which older single-pane windows benefit most from low-e retrofit film to improve thermal efficiency.
California's combination of high solar intensity, clear skies, and mild winters makes residential window film a year-round performance upgrade — not just a summer fix.
The Solution
After installation, the film is essentially invisible from inside the home. The exterior may show a slight tint, but view quality and light transmission remain largely unchanged.
Hybrid films combine ceramic particles with metallic layers for maximum heat rejection. They're the right choice for extreme solar exposures or homes with very large west-facing glass areas.
Blocks high-heat solar wavelengths to reduce interior temperatures and UV exposure.
Climate & Solar Performance
Properties near Simply Solar in Solar Car Wash, Berkeley experience low-e glass performance conditions that make window film particularly effective. Solar Control Window Film is specifically engineered to address this solar exposure.
Effective against low-e glass performance
Rated for historic or older home protection
Professional installers available in Berkeley
10–15 year manufacturer warranty
Installation Guide
A qualified installer will assess your window orientation and glass type before recommending a film grade. They'll identify your highest-gain exposures and match the right film to each.
Install time
30–45 min
Per window
$150–$400
Cure time
30 days