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Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

(877) 312-1248

Contact
Diamond Certified Company Report

Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

(877) 312-1248

Contact
Diamond certified ratings dashboard
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION i
Customer LOYALTY i
Helpful Expertise i
Company Credentials i
  • Workers Compensation
  • Liability Insurance
  • License Verification
  • Business Practices
  • Current Complaint File
  • Legal & Finance
Phone SURVEY RESPONSES FROM 327 VERIFIED CUSTOMERS i

Cheryl N.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

1 of 327

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I would recommend them. I think it will make a significant difference on your PG&E bill. We had a huge job where they did the whole house, and we have a huge amount of windows. We were very happy with them.

They came out most recently because our house had been robbed and a couple of windows had been broken. We needed to replace them. I was very happy that they still had our information from 10 years ago and were able to match the window to the replacement. They were very responsive. They got out here and got the work done. Over the years, I've been very happy to have it done, because it has really saved us money on our PG&E bill.

Bob D.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

2 of 327

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Very competent, fair prices, and excellent workmanship

They did exactly what they said they would do. They arrived on time, finished on time, and completed all of the work they were contracted to do.

B. J.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

3 of 327

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I would show them before and after pictures of what the windows look like on my shop and they look as good as new. All of the tinting did the trick to remove any scratches.

It is so easy to clean and to maintain. I was pleased with the price quote.
Read All 327 Survey Responses at Ratings View
Diamond certified VIDEO PROFILE
Diamond certified company PROFILE

Solar Control Glass Tinting Co. eliminates the effects of sun overexposure for residential and commercial properties throughout Northern California, from single-family homes to high-rise multiplexes. In addition to window tinting, it provides solutions for graffiti, eavesdropping security and safety issues. Other services include decorative interior and exterior glass applications.

Owner Rocky Burcham has seen the industry evolve from the days when tinting was done with liquids to the modern process of applying film. Solar film lets glare-controlled sunlight pass through windows while screening out heat and dangerous UV rays, he says. Bonding the film to the glass creates a barrier that protects against flying glass shards if the window is shattered. It also makes glass more difficult to break, which adds the element of security. Films with anti-graffiti surfaces protect against vandalism, while decorative films can mimic the appearance of expensive etched glass.

Solar Control Glass Tinting Co. provides free in-home estimates and samples of film. The company’s website offers case studies from previous jobs and extensive information about its licensing and qualifications.

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DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESEARCHED CAPABILITIES ON Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

COMPANY CONTACT
Service AREA

Alameda County
Contra Costa County
Marin County
San Mateo County
Santa Clara County
Solano County
San Francisco

SERVICES PERFORMED

Window Tinting
Window Films
Graffiti Film
Safety Film
Security Film
Designer Film
Decorative Film
Reduce Fade, Heat & Glare

BRANDS Supported

  • Armorcoat Safety Security

  • Bekaert

  • Denco Sales

  • Llumar – SelectPro Dealer

  • Madico Sunscape Select

  • Madico Advanced Ceramic

  • Panorama Window Films

  • Phifer Wire Products

  • V-Kool

  • Vista Window Film

DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESEARCHED ARTICLES ON Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

A Solar Control Glass Tinting Co. employee works on a sliding glass door at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel in Hawaii.

Company Profile

Solar Control Glass Tinting Co. eliminates the effects of sun overexposure for residential and commercial properties throughout Northern California, from single-family homes to high-rise multiplexes. In addition to window tinting, it provides solutions for graffiti, eavesdropping security and safety issues. Other services include decorative interior and exterior glass applications.

Owner Rocky Burcham has seen the industry evolve from the days when tinting was done with liquids to the modern process of applying film. Solar film lets glare-controlled sunlight pass through windows while screening out heat and dangerous UV rays, he says. Bonding the film to the glass creates a barrier that protects against flying glass shards if the window is shattered. It also makes glass more difficult to break, which adds the element of security. Films with anti-graffiti surfaces protect against vandalism, while decorative films can mimic the appearance of expensive etched glass.

Solar Control Glass Tinting Co. provides free in-home estimates and samples of film. The company’s website offers case studies from previous jobs and extensive information about its licensing and qualifications.

Read moreRead Less
Company Philosophy

“Like our products, our personnel are top-quality. Many have been with us for 28 years or longer. All our employees take pride in a job well done. Excellent products and excellent service are the reasons so many Bay Area clients choose us again and again.”

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Comparative Summary

Founded as a family-owned business in 1975, Solar Control Glass Tinting Company specializes in eliminating the effects of overexposure from the sun for residential and commercial properties. In addition, it offers solutions for graffiti, eavesdropping security and safety issues. Other services include decorative interior and exterior glass applications.

“We offer free estimates, a wide range of excellent product choices, helpful education, and timely service for our customers,” says Rocky Burcham, owner of the San Ramon-based company. “We’re different because we give customers a range of the best glass film selections available rather than only one brand.”

Along with consultation and estimates for projects, the company’s website (www.solarcontrolcompany.com) provides case studies from previous jobs and extensive information about its licensing and qualifications. “Some competitors avoid sharing information that can really benefit clients,” says Mr. Burcham. In addition to extensive product and service options, the website provides a copy of the company’s state license, workers’ compensation coverage information, useful tax credit forms, and links to Energy Star, the U.S. Green Building Council (LEED-certification), PG&E’s commercial rebate program, and various design partners.

“We work with interior designers because they’re often an integral part of the process for both residential and commercial projects,” notes Mr. Burcham. “I think the best word of mouth for our service is through great referrals. We support designers through a referral tracking system.” Solar Control Glass Tinting Company’s staff can also help potential clients or their contracted designers through the process of identifying solutions that best fit their needs.

Solar Control Glass Tinting Company provides service and solutions for drapery and furniture fading, anti-eavesdropping film, non-reflective film, safety and security film, earthquake safety film, decorative film, anti-graffiti film, attachment systems, skylight covers, and rebate forms.

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Industry Info

Most consumers, designers and business owners have little experience with solar glass tinting, so do your homework before you buy. When looking for a contractor for specialized services such as window tinting, it’s important to educate yourself and find a company you trust. The only real way to accomplish that, says Rocky Burcham of Solar Control Glass Tinting Company, is through background research. Here are a few tips for getting started:

Confirm the license number.
Once you get and confirm a contractor’s license number, you can use the California State License Board’s website to verify the owner’s name, their years in business and any complaints registered against them.

Get references.
Review a contractor’s current work and talk to their previous customers. “I know of one company in the landscaping business that suddenly got into window tinting,” says Mr. Burcham. “They changed their license and code by adding to their landscaping license and said they’d been in business for 20 years. Maybe in landscaping, but not in window tinting.”

Product choices.
Make sure the contractor is using top-quality films. There are many different types of window tinting films to choose from, and the cheapest isn’t always the best option for every job. “An experienced company will offer a wide variety of brands rather than try to push clients into one specific choice,” says Mr. Burcham. “The least expensive brands are a reflective type with a mirror finish. Many homeowners and businesses want a higher quality film that won’t give a reflective look to the outside of the building.”

The glass tinting film industry is constantly working on new, lighter products that do the same job as darker, more reflective films. Options for commercial properties also include:

Anti-eavesdropping film
Some retailers and other companies have found that sensitive electronic information can leak through windows when Wi-Fi, radio interference or certain radio frequencies are used. A few manufacturers have developed film to go on windows that distorts and scrambles this information.

Anti-graffiti film
Developed in the 1980s to combat glass being scratched or broken by vandals, a clear security film can be used to help prevent breaking and entering. It doesn’t change the look of a building, but it can be very hard to remove. A new film has been developed with a low tack adhesive that can easily be removed. In addition to applying the film on glass, it can be used on stainless steel elevators and other walls or doors. “It can also be used to coat granites used for sitting areas at malls, bathroom stalls and other public areas,” notes Mr. Burcham.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is tinting film safe to use on double pane windows?

A: Yes. The films we use are approved for double pane windows. One problem with tinting films is that once you apply it to windows, the manufacturer of the windows may void the warranty if problems occur. We work with film manufacturers that pick up the warranty for the windows as well as the film.

Q: Will the film affect the view?

A: No. In fact, most customers find it actually enhances the view by cutting the brightness.

Q: Will the film cut ultraviolet rays?

A: Yes. There are specific films for blocking ultraviolet light. UV protection reduces damage to furniture, carpets and drapes, which can be very costly to replace. The films that we use can cut 99.9 percent of UV rays. Nothing prevents fading, but using film on the windows slows the process.

Q: Can the addition of films help reduce interior heat?

A: You can get as much as 12 to 15 degrees cooling from the films we can apply. We install films specifically to reduce heat in rooms that may otherwise be unusable. Film that’s more reflective reduces more heat.

Q: Do you have film that can prevent window breakage?

A: Yes. Some houses and buildings have older glass that’s not tempered, which is now required by law. To prevent breaks and dangerous shattering from an accidental fall or earthquake, we can apply a clear film on the inside that helps hold the glass in place.

Q: How do you clean the films?

A: All films that we install have a hard, scratch-resistant coating and are easy to clean. We generally discourage using abrasive cleansers. They’re not scratchproof, but they’re scratch resistant. We provide information for care with each job.

Q: Can I install the film myself?

A: We don’t recommend it. We can’t warranty the work, and some film purchased at consumer retailers can ruin windows if not applied correctly.

Q: Are you licensed and insured?

A: Yes. We’re a licensed contractor and carry ample liability insurance. We also require our entire staff to be bonded. Most employees have been with the company for eight to 15 years, and we’ve never had any problems or issues with security on a job site.

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SELECTED PHOTOS FROM Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

  • Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

  • Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

  • Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

  • In addition, the company applies decorative films.

  • Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

  • The company provides free in-home estimates and film samples.

  • Solar Control Glass Tinting Company – since 1975

  • The company performs window tinting in homes and business.

  • Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

  • It also offers safety and security solutions like anti-graffiti films.

  • Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

  • Window Innovations Inc. specializes in solar control window films.

  • Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

  • It is certified by Armorcoat and the U.S. Green Building Council.

  • After

  • Solar Control Glass Tinting Company

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DIAMOND CERTIFIED EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR ADVICE & TIPS FROM Rocky Burcham

Expert CONTRIBUTOR PROFILE

  • Rocky Burcham is a 41-year veteran of the window tinting industry and owner of Solar Control Glass Tinting Co., a Diamond Certified company since 2005. He can be reached at (877) 312-1248 or by email.

Rocky Burcham: Solar Controller

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

SAN RAMON — After spending the first part of his professional life fighting fires, Rocky Burcham decided to change his focus toward pursuing a career in films—window films, that is. “I used to be a career fireman,” he recounts. “During my second year at the fire department, the owner of a local window film business came in and asked if anyone was interested in part-time work. At that time, I was working at the station 10 days a month, so I figured it would be a good way to utilize my days off. After gaining experience working for a couple of local companies, I started my own window film business in 1975.”

Today, as owner of Solar Control Glass Tinting Co., Rocky continues to find fulfillment in improving the comfort and safety of his customers’ homes. “Our line of work addresses a lot of different aspects, so whether a customer is trying to reject heat or reduce glare and sun-fading, we have a product that can help them,” he says. “We even have security films that increase safety by preventing window glass from shattering.”

A resident of San Ramon (where he lives with wife, Lori), Rocky appreciates his convenient proximity to the diverse spread of Bay Area destinations. “Lori and I enjoy going camping and fishing at spots like Lake Almanor, as well as going wine tasting in the Napa Valley.” Rocky also enjoys playing racquetball; riding his custom Harley-Davidson; hanging out with friends; and keeping up with his and Lori’s grown daughter, Danielle, who works as an ultrasound technician.

In his life and career, Rocky espouses the importance of customer service. “You might be the best company in your particular industry, but if you don’t have good customer service, you’ll never make it,” he explains. “That’s why we always place customer service at the forefront. From showing up on time to returning phone calls and communicating proactively, customer service has made and continues to make all the difference in terms of our ongoing success.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What are your favorite sports teams?
A: The Oakland Raiders, the Oakland A’s and the Golden State Warriors.

Q: What’s your favorite movie genre?
A: Science fiction.

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Italy. That’s the next trip we’re planning, actually.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Work on the computer. We take lots of photos of our work, and I enjoy organizing them and grouping them into albums.

Q: How do you like your eggs?
A: Over medium.

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Expert articles
  • Understanding Window Films

    by Rocky Burcham, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

    SAN RAMON — There are numerous window film products on the market, but when it comes to their basic elemental components, most can be classified as one of three basic types:

    Reflective films
    These films are made with metal particles, which give them a reflective quality that allows them to naturally deflect sunlight and heat. Additionally, their grayish, mirror-like tint makes it more difficult for outsiders to see inside the windows.

    Ceramic films
    These films are made with ceramic particles, which allow for greater visual clarity than metal. Despite their non-reflective character, ceramic films are still able to reject 99 percent of ultraviolet light, as well as about 50 percent of the sun’s heat.

    High-performance films
    Constructed with expensive, high-quality materials, these films are designed to provide maximum clarity along with superior heat and light rejection.

    By learning about the different window film options available, as well as assessing your specific needs and budget, you’ll be able to find a product that’s right for your home.

    Read moreRead less
Expert video tip

  • Video: Window Film Options

    with Rocky Burcham of
    Solar Control Glass Tinting Co.

    Complete Video Transcription:

    SAN RAMON — Host, Sarah Rutan: If you’re thinking about tinting the windows in your home, make sure you’re aware of the many different options available. To learn more, we’re in San Ramon with Augie Covarelli of Solar Control Glass Tinting Co., speaking on behalf of Diamond Certified Expert Contributor Rocky Burcham.

    Diamond Certified Expert Contributor, Augie Covarelli: Deciding on a film to put on your windows in the end becomes a personal preference, but basically there’s three different types of films. The first series of films, which are the reflective films, are made with metal particles, and that’s why they’ll reflect more heat. But they’ll also have a mirrory, gun-metalish look on the outside. And at night, they are harder to see through because of the light dominance. The lights will shine back at you. The second category of films are ceramic films made with ceramic particles. They’re non-reflective. They still reject 99 percent of the ultraviolet. They’ll reject about half the heat. The third category is high performance films. They’re made with more expensive particles, but the idea is to make a film that’s clear as possible to reject as much bad stuff as possible, like over half the heat and 99 percent of the ultraviolet.

    Host, Sarah Rutan: To learn more from local top rated companies, visit our Diamond Certified Expert Reports at experts.diamondcertified.org.

    Read moreRead less
Solar Control Glass Tinting Company WEBSITE AND EXTERNAL FEED
COMPANY WEBSITE
http://www.solarcontrolcompany.com
Diamond Certified RATINGS ON Solar Control Glass Tinting Company
Diamond certified ratings dashboard
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION i
Customer LOYALTY i
Helpful Expertise i

Each surveyed customer was asked, “If you needed any helpful expertise, did this company provide that expertise?” To calculate this score, total “Yes” responses were divided by total responses (excluding those that stated they hadn’t needed any expertise).

Company Credentials i
  • Workers Compensation
  • Liability Insurance
  • License Verification
  • Business Practices
  • Current Complaint File
  • Legal & Finance
Phone SURVEY RESPONSES FROM 327 VERIFIED CUSTOMERS i

Cheryl N.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

1 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I would recommend them. I think it will make a significant difference on your PG&E bill. We had a huge job where they did the whole house, and we have a huge amount of windows. We were very happy with them.

They came out most recently because our house had been robbed and a couple of windows had been broken. We needed to replace them. I was very happy that they still had our information from 10 years ago and were able to match the window to the replacement. They were very responsive. They got out here and got the work done. Over the years, I've been very happy to have it done, because it has really saved us money on our PG&E bill.

Bob D.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

2 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Very competent, fair prices, and excellent workmanship

They did exactly what they said they would do. They arrived on time, finished on time, and completed all of the work they were contracted to do.

B. J.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

3 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I would show them before and after pictures of what the windows look like on my shop and they look as good as new. All of the tinting did the trick to remove any scratches.

It is so easy to clean and to maintain. I was pleased with the price quote.

Andrew A.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

4 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They have so many different options and really try to offer the best possible option depending on the building.

They are professionals.

Theresa M.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

5 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They were good. I wasn't super involved, but think they did a good job.

The windows look good.

Craig K.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

6 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Reliable, professional, and they do quality work.

They have a good reputation for their work.

Suzanne F.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

7 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Very professional, the original person who came out was extremely helpful with the information we needed. I think they did a great job all around.

Everything

Grant S.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

8 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They are the best. They were referred to us years ago, and we won't use anyone else.

They are professional, use quality film, and have the best team.

Paul S.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

9 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Extremely knowledgeable, dependable, and they back their product. They will send someone out at no charge if there are any issues with their work.

Everything, professionalism, reliability, knowledge, you name it, they are great

Kim K.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

10 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

From what I know, they did a great job. I don't know much about window tinting, but they were able to achieve what we were going for.

They found us a solution that actually works.

Brett O.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

11 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Very experienced team of guys, the film was put on within a day. We are very happy with them.

They were able to provide us with a couple options depending on what we were looking to do with the films.

Danielle D.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

12 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I would give them above a "10". They were very knowledgeable, and the difference it made has been night and day.

They were experts. They knew their stuff and got the job done.

Emily M.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

13 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Well I think they are very talented, and I would recommend them.

The work they do is flawless.

Susan B.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

14 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They are really good, communicate well, have good product, and do good quality work.

I think the job as a whole after everything was done was the best.

Kristina C.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

15 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They can literally do anything you need done, skylights, bay windows, french doors, all of it.

The quality of their work, they take their time.

Rafael H.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

16 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I think they did a good job, and I would recommend them.

They are really professional and know exactly what they are doing.

Paula F.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

17 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Reall great guys, really helpful, and they do professional quality work.

The quality of their products

Joe M.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

18 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I would recommend them.

Nothing

Eric F.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

19 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

He is very knowledgeable about the maintenance of the tinting that he puts on, and he is communicative. They show up when they say they are going to.

I didn't have to make a million calls. He came out, did the work, and it was done.

Dr. T.

VERIFIED Solar Control Glass Tinting Company CUSTOMER

20 of 327

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They were good and timely. They stuck with whatever we said.

It looks good. I have used them in the past, and they did a good job. It is still looking good.
Read All 327 Survey Responses at Ratings View

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