How does a metal glass curtain wall perform in extreme heat and sandstorms?

Metal-glass curtain walls in the Gulf must withstand prolonged high temperatures, intense solar radiation, salt-laden coastal air and episodic sandstorms. Performance starts with material selection and detailing: anodized or high-grade PVDF-coated aluminum frames resist corrosion from coastal salt spray, and architectural-grade powder or fluoropolymer finishes maintain color stability under UV exposure. We specify IGUs with low-E coatings and warm-edge spacer systems to reduce thermal stress on seals under extreme heat. Robust gasket systems, high-performance structural silicones and fully drained pressure-equalized cavities are essential to maintain watertightness when wind-blown sand abrades external seals. Pressure-equalized designs reduce infiltration by balancing cavity pressure with exterior wind pressure, while multi-stage drainage paths remove any water or debris trapped behind the outer glazing. For sandstorm resilience, we design extrusions with replaceable exterior gaskets and accessible mullion covers to facilitate maintenance and gasket replacement without full panel removal. Additionally, glass edgework and spacer selection are chosen to mitigate seal fatigue from wide daily temperature swings. Routine maintenance protocols we recommend for GCC clients include scheduled wash cycles to remove abrasive sand, inspection of perimeter sealants after major storms, and replacement of worn gaskets —measures that collectively preserve thermal performance, airtightness and long-term appearance in harsh desert and coastal environments.