California has some of the strictest energy codes in the world. We help you navigate them so you don't have to sacrifice your view to save energy.
The Coachella Valley is designated as "Climate Zone 15." Because of our extreme summer heat, the state mandates strict limits on how much heat windows can let in to reduce strain on the electrical grid.
The "Prescriptive" Problem: If you follow the standard "checklist" method (Prescriptive Path), the code often restricts you to smaller windows or requires dark, heavy tints to meet the strict Solar Heat Gain limits.
But you don't have to settle for the checklist.
We utilize the Performance Approach. Instead of looking at the window as an isolated component, we model your entire home as an energy system.
Think of energy compliance like a financial budget. The state gives you a "target" based on a standard home design. As long as your proposed design uses less energy than the target, you pass.
Want expansive, clear glass that doesn't meet the strict standalone requirement? We can "trade" for it. By upgrading your AC efficiency or insulation, we generate "credits" that allow for the beautiful windows you actually want.
Navigating the 2025 Energy Code is complex. It involves calculating "Peak Cooling Energy" and "Source Energy" metrics. That is why we partner with professional Title 24 Consultants.
A measurement (0-1) of how much heat the window lets in. In the desert, the code wants this number very low (0.20).
How well the window insulates against outside air temperature.
Don't let the energy code dictate your design. Let us engineer a solution.
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