If you live in Palm Desert or anywhere in the Coachella Valley, you know the sun doesn’t just shine — it blazes. With triple-digit temperatures being the norm for a big chunk of the year, you might wonder: how does all that desert heat affect your windows?

At Glow Window Cleaning, we get this question a lot. And honestly, it’s a good one. Because while your windows might seem like passive pieces of glass, the desert climate can do a number on them — especially if they’re not cleaned and maintained regularly.

Let’s break it down.

1. Extreme Heat Causes Window Stress (Yes, That’s a Thing)

Desert temperatures in Palm Desert can reach over 110°F during the summer. Your windows — especially the outer panes — absorb all that solar energy. Over time, this can cause what’s known as thermal stress, especially in double-pane or older windows.

Thermal stress happens when part of the glass is significantly hotter than another part. This creates pressure, which can eventually lead to cracks or seal failure, especially around the edges. If you’ve ever seen fogging inside double-pane windows, that’s a broken seal — and it’s more common in hot climates.

2. Dust + Heat = Stubborn, Baked-On Grime

Let’s talk about dust. Palm Desert is gorgeous, but it’s also dry and sandy. That fine desert dust clings to glass like it’s on a mission. When the sun hits your dusty windows, it essentially bakes the dirt in place.

This isn’t just an aesthetic issue. That baked-on grime can:

• Etch into the glass surface over time
• Create tiny scratches that scatter light and reduce clarity
• Make your windows look permanently cloudy

Regular window cleaning helps you stay ahead of the buildup. Left too long, and you’re not cleaning — you’re doing damage control.

3. UV Rays Can Break Down Window Seals and Frames

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is relentless in the desert. Over time, it can degrade the rubber seals, caulking, and even vinyl or wooden frames around your windows.

When seals break down, you get drafts, higher energy bills, and — in double-pane windows — moisture intrusion between panes. That foggy look? That’s not just dirt. It’s often permanent, and replacing the glass is the only fix.