Hi E.R., We got some solar screening fro Giam Real Goods years ago and is probably similar to what they have at Lowes these days. Real heavy, tight webbing that you can sort of see out at a distance, but the closer you get to it, the harder to see out. I think you are on track with the film that is typically squeegied on. There is an outfit here that does it. When they first started, the mirrored finish was all they offered, but I noticed that now they have some that is basically no darker than todays windows that are coated with low-e. Appearently it's very effective in controlling heat gain, but you can still easily enjoy the views. The mirrored film darkened the view quite a bit so you might look into diy kits that have the newer film types. I watched the install on a remodel I was doing and it's pretty straight forward. I likened it to wall papering where they cut the sheets a tad big, moistened the panes, slid it on and squeegied the air bubbles out. After drying, they trimmed the overlap to the inside of the panes. I haven't had the opportunity to try it diy, but it seems like a simple process. Cool to replicate the screen frames with wood. Im sure you are familiar with the Kreg pocket hole system. It's reliable and is easier than making lap joints, mortise and tenons, or even dowel pins when making up the frames. If you dont have one you might consider it for your frame projects and comes in handy for future projects such as cabinet frames. When in N.W. Floria, (Gulf Breeze), We used copper screening for vents that were behind ornamental grates on a period home. The house also had copper flashing that I didn't get to see but Im sure patinad nicely. You might consider copper screening for your frames. Have a good one. Here is a link that might be useful: Kreg pocket hole

The is only one manufacturer that I would purchase window film from and that is 3M. You should check into 3M Prestige Series Window Film. Sorry to hear about your problems. I am in no way affiliated with 3M, but I have used their products in high-end commercial and residential settings and 3M always come through.

We had this installed this on our San Diego condo which had no air conditioning. It helped considerably in keeping the place cooler. It was installed inside, not outside the glass. We found it durable and cleanable but you do have to be careful not to scratch it by attaching things like suncatchers to the window. It was expensive but well worthwhile. Our HOA is VERY controlling about modifications but they praised this product because it was so subtle in appearance and did not obscure the view or look out of place from the exterior.

You can do a DIY install but it is not something we recommend, particularly if you like the view. DIY installs are always dirty and take much longer than you think. LLumar Select Pro dealers meet the highest standards in the industry and have access to the best technology and widest range of products available to meet your needs. Good Luck! http://northamerica.llumar.com/find-a-window-tint-dealer