Author: Craftsmen Home Improvements

Thinking about replacing your windows? That’s a smart move! New windows can make your home more comfortable, boost curb appeal, and help cut down on energy bills.

But let’s be honest: the first thing you probably want to know is how much it’s gonna cost.

In this post, we’ll shed some light on how much does it cost to replace windows in Minnesota, and what actually affects the price.

Plus, we’ll also break down our window replacement prices at Craftsmen Home Improvements .

Our Window Replacement Prices

We charge between $900 and $1,300 to replace a standard white vinyl insert window.

If you’re going with wood full-frame windows, those usually run between $2,800 and $3,500 each.

Vinyl inserts are quicker to install and more budget-friendly. Wood full-frame windows are custom-ordered and take more time due to the extra framing, finishing, and hardware involved.

Our pricing includes:

• Removing the old window
• Installing the new one
• Making sure everything is finished clean and properly sealed

Reach out for a quote based on your home and window type.

Check Out Our: Twin Cities window replacement services

Average Window Replacement Cost

Replacing windows in Minnesota costs anywhere from $300 to $1,500 per window. That includes both materials and labor.

Full-home replacements could run anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on how many windows you’ve got and what kind you’re going with.

If you’re going with basic vinyl windows, you’re likely on the lower end of that range. But if you go with High-end wood or fiberglass windows, you’re looking closer to the top.

But don’t stress too much over the big numbers. There’s a lot of wiggle room here based on the choices you make.

Factors That Affect The Cost Of Window Replacement

There’s a lot more to window replacement costs than just picking out a new pane and popping it in. The final price depends on a handful of things.

Here are some of the biggest factors:

#1 Window Material

The material you choose is the biggest factor that affects window replacement costs. Here’s a rough breakdown of the averages:

• Vinyl windows: $300-$700 per window (most popular in Minnesota)
• Wood windows: $800-$1,300 per window
• Fiberglass windows: $700-$1,200 per window (super durable)
• Aluminum windows: $400-$800 per window (strong but poor insulation)

Choosing the right material is a balance between look, performance, and budget.

Also Read: 7 Signs To Replace Windows

#2 Window Type

The type of window you pick will also change how much it costs.

A standard double-hung window (where both the top and bottom sashes slide) is pretty cost-friendly. But if you want a bay window that sticks out from the wall or a large picture window for amazing views, expect to pay more.

Casement windows that open with a crank, sliders that move horizontally, or custom-shaped windows like arches or circles, all come with a higher cost too.

The more complex the design, the more you’ll likely pay for both materials and installation.

#3 Number Of Windows

Simple math here: more windows = more money.

If you’re only replacing a couple windows that are cracked, it’s gonna cost way less than replacing every single window in the house.

That said, many window companies offer bulk discounts, so you might get a better deal per window if you’re doing a full-home replacement. Plus, doing them all at once can save on labor charges over time.

#4 Full-Frame Vs Retrofit Window Replacement

You’ve got two main installation options:

Full-frame replacement removes everything down to the studs. It costs more ($200-$300 extra per window) but solves any hidden damage issues.

Retrofit installations (also called insert or pocket replacement) keep the existing frame and just replace the window unit.

They’re cheaper but work only if your current frames are in good shape.

That said, full-frame replacements are often recommended in Minnesota because of potential moisture damage that might be hiding in your walls after years of freezing and thawing cycles.

Also Read: Who To Call For Leaking Windows

#5 Energy Efficiency Features

Minnesota winters aren’t exactly mild. So most homeowners here look for energy-efficient windows that can help keep heating bills down.

Features like double-pane or triple-pane glass, low-emissivity (low-E) coatings, and argon or krypton gas fills between the panes can all add to the cost.

The flip side? These upgrades can pay for themselves over time in energy savings.

Plus, your home just feels cozier when the cold stays out and the warm air stays in.

#6 Labor Costs

Labor is a big part of the total price, and rates can vary depending on the contractor and the complexity of the job.

Installing standard windows is usually faster and cheaper than working with large or custom windows. If your home has structural issues, tricky access points, or you’re switching window styles entirely, that can increase labor time, and cost.

It’s tempting to go with the lowest bid, but experience matters. A skilled installer might charge more, but they’ll get it done right and help avoid leaks, drafts, or long-term problems.

#7 Brand And Quality

Like anything else, the brand and quality of your windows matter.

Higher-end brands tend to cost more because they’re known for their durability and design. Some brands even offer better warranties, which could be a factor if you’re looking for long-term protection.

Cheaper brands might look fine at first but wear down faster or have fewer options for customization.

But just because a window is from a fancy brand doesn’t automatically mean it’s worth the extra cash. Just choose windows that are right for your needs, not just the name on the box.

Also Read: How much does it cost to replace a roof in Minnesota?

#8 Location

Where you live in Minnesota will also affect the cost to replace windows.

In bigger cities like Minneapolis, labor and permits might cost more than in smaller towns.

Local supply chains and availability of materials mattress too as some products may need to be ordered from out of state, which can increase wait times and costs.

Plus, climate matters. In northern parts of the state, where winter temperatures drop hard, you’ll likely need stronger insulation features, which bumps up the price. Your location influences both what you need and what it costs to get it done.

#9 Permits And Regulations

Some cities or counties in Minnesota require permits for window replacement (especially for larger jobs or full-frame replacements).

This usually adds $100-$300 to your project.

Rules can also differ based on historic homes or HOA guidelines.

The good news is, many contractors will take care of the permits for you. But make sure you ask upfront so there are no surprises later on.

#10 Additional Features

Windows today can do a lot more than just let in light.

You can add features like built-in blinds (great for rooms where you want privacy without the hassle), impact-resistant glass (especially helpful if you live in a windy area), or soundproofing for noisy streets.

Decoratives like grille patterns, tinted glass, or custom finishes can also raise the price.

These aren’t must-haves for every home, but if you’re upgrading anyway, it might be worth looking into a few extras that boost comfort, style, or safety.

Bottom Line

Replacing windows in Minnesota can run anywhere from $300 – $1500 depending on what you want and need.

If you’re thinking about making the switch, start by figuring out your priorities: comfort, looks, budget, or all of the above.

Then get a few quotes from local pros and compare your options.

Remember, you don’t have to do it all at once. Do a few windows at a time if that’s what your budget allows. Just make sure you go with a team that knows what they’re doing!

Got cracks showing up around your windows? Super frustrating, right?

You finally get everything sealed and looking good, and then – those annoying little lines show up like the caulk just gave up. It’s a common issue, especially on older homes or spots that take a beating from the weather.

In this post, we’ll talk about why caulk cracks around windows, what’s probably going wrong, and how to fix it without turning it into a giant project.

Why Does Caulk Crack Around Windows?

Here are the 5 main reasons behind cracked caulking around windows:

Temperature Changes

The biggest reason why caulk cracks around windows is temperature changes.

Houses move a little bit all the time, especially around windows. When it’s hot, materials expand. When it’s cold, they contract. That shift might be small, but it happens constantly, day and night, season after season.

This constant expanding and contracting of materials causes stress on the caulk

Over time, it can’t handle that pressure, and cracks begin to form.

Also Read: Who To Call For Leaking Windows?

Aging And Weathering

Caulk isn’t made to last forever, and, just like us, it gets older and more fragile as time goes by.

The sun’s UV rays break down caulk, and make it brittle and easy to crack. Rain slowly wears it down. Wind pushes dust and dirt against it. And then there’s ice and snow adding pressure during the winter.

All of that adds up. Over the years, the caulk dries out, becomes less flexible, and starts pulling away from the surface.

So if you’ve had the same caulk around your windows for years, it’s just doing what it does naturally – aging. And as that happens, it’s more likely to give way and start cracking, especially in areas where the weather takes a beating.

Wrong Type Of Caulk

The next reason why caulk is cracking around windows is because you used the wrong product.

There are dozens of caulk options, and picking the wrong one is super easy.

Some are made just for indoors. Some are only for dry areas. Others aren’t designed for movement at all.

If you use kitchen or bathroom caulk around your windows, for example, it’s not going to last. Same goes for cheap general-purpose caulks as they often don’t have enough stretch.

For windows, you want something rated for exterior use, with flexibility and weather resistance.

Poor Surface Prep Or Uneven Application

Another big reason for cracks is poor preparation or sloppy application.

If the area wasn’t cleaned first – like if it had dust, old paint chips, or moisture, the caulk won’t bond well. That weak bond leads to early cracking or peeling.

And it’s not just the prep. The way it’s applied matters too. A thin or patchy bead leaves gaps. If it’s not pressed in properly or tooled smoothly, it won’t seal evenly.

These little mistakes add up fast. So even “new” caulk might fail in just a few months if the prep or technique wasn’t right.

Also Read: Is James Hardie Siding Is Worth It?

Moisture Exposure

Windows can get pretty wet, especially after a storm. If the caulk around your windows is constantly exposed to moisture or water, it can start to degrade faster.

Water seeps into tiny gaps and makes the caulk swell and break down over time.

If you live in a region with heavy rainfall or extreme humidity, your caulk might be more prone to cracking because of this moisture exposure.

How To Fix Cracked Caulk Around Windows

Now that we’ve got the “why” out of the way, let’s talk about the “how.” Fixing cracked caulk is actually pretty easy, and you don’t need to be a pro to do it yourself.

Here’s how to get it done:

#1 Remove Old Caulk

The first step is to get rid of the old caulk.

It’s tempting to just slap new caulk on top of the cracked stuff, but that won’t do you any good in the long run. The old caulk needs to come out so the new stuff can form a good bond.

You can use a utility knife or a caulk removal tool to scrape it off.

If you’re struggling with stubborn bits, you can even use a little heat from a hairdryer to soften the caulk and make it easier to remove.

Be patient and take the time to remove all the old caulk. It’ll make the new stuff lasts longer.

Also Read: When To Replace Windows

#2 Clean The Surface

Once the old caulk is gone, it’s time to clean the surface.

You want to make sure there’s no dust, dirt, or old adhesive left behind.

Use a clean cloth or rag, and a bit of rubbing alcohol or soapy water to wipe down the area. Let everything dry completely before you move on to the next step.

If the surface isn’t cleaned properly, your new caulk might not adhere well, and you could be back to square one.

#3 Apply New Caulk

Grab your caulk gun (or squeeze tube, if that’s what you’re using), and apply a thin, even bead of caulk around the window seam.

Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your caulk, as some need a specific temperature range or application method.

Once the bead is applied, use a wet finger or a caulk smoothing tool to smooth it out.

This will ensure a neat finish and help the caulk seal properly. Don’t forget to check for any gaps and fill them in before moving on.

#4 Let It Cure

This is the step that people often overlook, but it’s super important.

You can’t just jump right back to opening and closing your window. Most caulks need time to cure and fully set, so read the label to see how long you need to wait. It’s usually anywhere from 24 to 48 hours.

During this time, try not to disturb the caulk or expose it to moisture.

Giving it this time to cure will ensure that it sticks properly and creates a solid seal.

Bottom Line

Cracked caulk around windows is something that happens to all of us. It’s part of owning a house and dealing with the elements.

But the good news is, it’s not a huge fix.

A little bit of time, some elbow grease, and the right materials, and you’ll have your windows sealed up good as new.

FAQs

Why Is My New Caulk Cracking?

If your fresh caulk is already cracking, it’s often because of one of these reasons:

• The wrong type of caulk was used (like indoor-only or low-flexibility caulk)
• It was applied too thin or uneven
• The surface wasn’t cleaned well before application
• It was applied during poor weather—too cold, too humid, or wet
• It wasn’t given enough time to cure

Even new caulk can fail fast if one of these things went wrong. The fix usually means scraping it out and redoing it with the right product and better prep.

Caulk Cracking Around Windows In Winter

It’s usually from the cold. When temperatures drop, the materials around your windows shrink. That includes the window frame, the trim, and even the wall. If the caulk doesn’t have enough flexibility, it can’t handle that movement and starts to crack.