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How Much Does It Cost To Replace Windows In Minnesota?

Written by Craftsmen Home Improvements on May 27, 2025. Posted in Windows.

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.

#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!

Caulk Cracking Around Windows? (Here’s Why)

Written by Craftsmen Home Improvements on May 23, 2025. Posted in Windows.

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.

#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.

Children Playing When To Replace Windows In Home | Gps: 46.734921, 94.678137

When To Replace Windows (7 Signs You Can’t Ignore)

Written by Andrew Jenkins on February 24, 2025. Posted in Windows. No Comments on When To Replace Windows (7 Signs You Can’t Ignore)

Windows are one of those things that don’t always get the attention they deserve. You probably don’t think twice about them until something starts going wrong.

But over the years, they can start showing signs of wear and tear that you can’t afford to ignore.

So, how do you know when it’s time to replace them instead of just repairing them?

In this post, I’ll go over 7 clear signs that it’s time to replace your windows.

#1 Your Windows Have Visible Damage

This one’s pretty obvious, but it’s worth mentioning.

If your windows have cracks, chips, or broken glass, that’s a clear sign they need to go.

Any visible damage like that can compromise the integrity of the window, and, in the worst case, make your home less secure. Plus, if your windows are letting in moisture, it can lead to mold or mildew problems.

Not something you want to deal with, right?

Even small cracks can get bigger over time. If you spot any damage, don’t wait to get it checked out. It’s better to replace the window than to let it get worse.

Also check out our Minnesota Window Replacement Services

#2 Your Windows Are Hard To Open Or Close

If opening or closing your windows feels like a workout, that’s another sign to replace windows.

Sticking, jamming, or refusing to stay open usually means the frames are warped, the hardware is failing, or years of wear and tear have caught up. Either way, it’s a good sign that your windows need attention.

Windows should glide smoothly, not require a battle every time you need some fresh air.

Besides being annoying, stuck windows can be a safety issue – imagine needing to escape in an emergency and your window won’t budge.

#3 Your Windows Have Rotting Frames

Wooden window frames are gorgeous, but they come with one big problem: rot.

If you see your window frame beginning to rot or if it feels soft to the touch, that’s a serious red flag. Rot is caused by moisture getting into the wood over time, and it can spread quickly.

If not addressed, it could lead to structural damage and even cause mold to develop.

The good news is that, in some cases, you might be able to replace just the frame rather than the whole window. But if the rot is widespread, it’s best to just replace the whole thing.

The cost of dealing with the rot now is way less than the repairs you might face later on.

Also Read: Who To Call For Leaking Windows?

#4 Your Windows Are Old

Windows don’t last forever. If you have windows that are 20, 30, or even 40 years old, it might be time to say goodbye to them.

Older windows weren’t made with the same energy efficiency standards as modern ones. They’re often single-paned, which means they don’t do a great job of keeping the outside weather where it belongs – outside.

Newer windows keep your home insulated, which can save you a ton on your energy bills.

Not to mention, old windows can be drafty and noisy. They can also be harder to maintain and more prone to problems.

So, if you’re living with old windows, think about upgrading to something more efficient.

#5 You Feel Drafts

If you’re feeling a draft around your windows, it’s a sign that air is slipping through.

You should never feel a chill coming through your window, especially if you’re heating or cooling your home.

A draft can happen for a couple of reasons: maybe the window seal is broken, or the frame is warped. Either way, it means air is sneaking in (or out) when it shouldn’t be.

If you can feel the cold air sneaking in through your windows, it’s time to replace them.

You could also test your windows by holding a candle or lighter near the frame on a windy day—if the flame flickers or moves, it’s time for new windows.

#6 Your Energy Bills Are Rising With No Other Explanation

Have you noticed a sudden spike in your energy bills, but can’t figure out why?

It could be your windows. As windows age, they lose their ability to insulate your home, meaning your heating and cooling systems have to work harder to keep the temperature consistent.

This causes your energy usage to go up, which means higher bills.

If you’ve checked everything else and there’s no other obvious explanation, your windows could be the culprit.

In cases like this, replacing them with energy-efficient windows can help lower those bills and make your home a lot more comfortable year-round.

#7 Outside Noise Is Getting Worse

If you’ve noticed that the sounds from outside are getting louder inside your home, that’s another sign it might be time to replace your windows.

Older windows often don’t have the same level of soundproofing that newer ones do.

If you live in a noisy area, like near a busy street or an airport, or you’re just tired of hearing everything going on outside, upgrading to soundproof windows could be a good decision.

Modern windows are designed to block out noise a lot better.

They’re made with improved insulation and thicker glass that can dampen sound, and help keep your home quieter and more peaceful.

Also Read: How much does siding cost in Minnesota?

#8 You’re Looking To Increase Your Home Value

Maybe you’re not dealing with major issues, but you want to boost your home’s value.

New windows are a great way to do that!

If you’re planning to sell your home or just want to invest in something that will improve its overall appeal, replacing your windows is a smart move.

New, modern windows can make your home look more attractive, and potential buyers will appreciate the fact that they won’t need to worry about window repairs or replacements for a long time.

Plus, energy-efficient windows are a big selling point.

Buyers are more conscious about long-term costs, so energy-efficient windows can give your home an edge over others on the market.

Bottom Line

If your windows are damaged, hard to operate, drafty, or just plain old, it might be time to replace them.

It can seem like a big task, but the benefits are totally worth it. Not only will your home be more comfortable, but you could save money on your bills and even increase your home’s value.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s definitely worth having a professional come out and assess the situation.

Windows Wet Glass Due To High Humidity | Gps Coordinates: 44.741207, 93.326588

Who To Call For Leaking Windows? (Solved)

Written by Andrew Jenkins on January 11, 2025. Posted in Windows. No Comments on Who To Call For Leaking Windows? (Solved)

Noticed a bit of unwelcome water creeping in through your window? Don’t panic! A leaking window can feel like a major headache, but with the right help, it’s totally fixable.

The tricky part? Figuring out exactly who to call.

Should you ring up a handyman, or is this more of a job for a specialist?

In this post, I’ll give you a quick rundown of who to call for leaking windows, depending on how bad the leak is.

Handyman

If you’ve got a small leak or just need a quick fix, you should call a handyman.

These guys know how to do lots of different home repairs, including basic window repair.

They can check out what’s going on, figure out where the water’s coming from, and do things like replace weatherstripping, seal up gaps, or fix minor damage to the frame.

The best part? They usually don’t charge as much as specialists, so that’s a win for your wallet if the problem isn’t too complicated.

Just keep in mind that if the issue turns out to be more serious, you might need someone else.

General Contractors

If you think your leaking window might be part of a bigger problem, or you’re just not sure how bad it is, you should call a general contractor. An exterior contractor should be fine too.

These guys know a ton about building and fixing homes.

They’ll look at your window, sure, but they’ll also check out the area around it to see if there’s something else going on that’s causing the leak.

If the water has messed up your walls or floors, these guys can handle all that too.

They can take care of everything that needs to be done to fix up your home!

Window Installation Companies

Sometimes, the problem is the window itself. Maybe it wasn’t installed right in the first place, or maybe it’s just old and worn out.

That’s when you want to talk to a window installation company.

Check Out Our Window Replacement And Installation Services

These are the window experts. They know all about different types of windows and what makes them tick (or leak, in this case). They can figure out exactly what’s wrong and fix it.

If your window is beyond repair, they can help you pick out a new one that’ll keep the water out and might even help you save on energy bills. Bonus!

Emergency Plumbers Or Roofers

Sometimes what looks like a leaking window isn’t actually the window’s fault at all.

If you notice water coming in when it rains hard, or you think the water might be coming from above the window, you might want to call an emergency plumber or roofer.

They can check if the problem is actually a leaking pipe in the wall or an issue with your roof (like ice dams or damaged shingles) that’s letting water travel down to your window.

If you’ve got water gushing in suddenly, these are the people you want to call right away to prevent a full-on home disaster.

Water Mitigation Contractors

Okay, so let’s say your leaky window has already caused some damage. That’s when you might want to call in a water mitigation contractor.

These guys know how to deal with water damage.

They’ve got special tools to find hidden moisture, they can get the water out of places you didn’t even know it could go, and they make sure everything’s dry so you don’t end up with a mold problem later.

They can also give you tips on how to keep water out in the future and might work with other pros to solve your leaky window problem once and for all.

Wrapping Up

Dealing with a leaky window isn’t fun, but it is what it is.

Who you should call really depends on how bad the leak is and what else is going on.

For small stuff, a handyman or general contractor should be able to take care of it. If things are looking more serious, you might need window specialists, or water mitigation experts.

The main thing is to get someone on the job before that little leak turns into a big problem.

Good luck, and here’s hoping your home stays dry!

FAQs

Window Leak Repair Cost

It costs around $100 – $600 on average to fix a window leak. The exact cost depends on the cause, type of window and extent of the problem.

Can Leaking Windows Be Repaired?

Yes, leaking windows can often be repaired. The most common ways to fix leaking windows are:

Recaulking the window
Replacing damaged seals
Repairing or replacing flashing
Sealing gaps and cracks
Cleaning and unclogging weep holes

Who To Call For A Broken Window?

For a broken window, your best bet is to call a glass repair company or a window installer. These pros can quickly assess the damage and either repair or replace the broken glass.

Mold Infestation On Plastic Window In Wet Conditions Resized

Gap Between Window And Frame (Here’s Why And What To Do)

Written by Andrew Jenkins on January 9, 2025. Posted in Windows. No Comments on Gap Between Window And Frame (Here’s Why And What To Do)

Have you noticed a gap between your window and its frame?

They’re pretty common, but they can cause some headaches if you don’t take care of them. These little spaces might let in cold air, make your heating bills go up, or even let water sneak in.

In this post, we’re going to look at why these gaps show up in the first place. Plus, I’ll show you how to fill the gap between window and frame.

Why Is There A Gap Between Window And Frame?

There are a few reasons why you might see gaps between your windows and frames.

Some of these gaps are actually supposed to be there, but others can cause problems and need to be fixed. Let me explain:

Also Read: Who to call for leaking window

Standard Installation Gap

When windows are being installed, the crew will usually leave a small gap between the window frame and the rough opening in the wall on purpose.

This gap is usually about 1/4 to 1/2 inch (that’s around 6 to 12 mm).

It might seem odd, but it’s there for a good reason.

This gives room for the materials to expand and shrink a bit when the temperature changes and also lets the building settle or shift slightly over time without messing up the window.

Don’t worry, though – this gap gets filled with insulation and sealed up to keep drafts and moisture out, so your window still works efficiently.

Foundation Movement

One of the main reasons you might see noticeable gaps is because of your foundation settling.

As your building’s foundation moves over time, which can happen because of the soil, moisture changes, or other stuff going on outside, it can make your whole house shift a little.

This movement can throw off the alignment of your window frames.

Gaps like these can let air in, and they might be a sign of bigger structural issues that need attention.

Poor Installation Practices

Sometimes, gaps between windows and frames happen simply because whoever installed them didn’t do it right. If windows aren’t shimmed or leveled properly during installation, it can lead to gaps and alignment issues.

Ideally, gaps shouldn’t be bigger than 1/4 inch on any side of the window.

When the installation isn’t done carefully, you can end up with bigger gaps that make it hard for the window to seal tightly against the outside.

Also Check Out Our: Window Installation Services

How To Fix Gap Between Window And Frame

Fixing these gaps is super important to keep your home energy-efficient and comfortable.

The way you fix them depends on how big the gap is and what caused it. Here are some effective ways to tackle the problem:

#1 Weather Stripping

If you’ve got small gaps, especially between the part of the window that moves (the sash) and the frame, weather stripping can work great.

It’s pretty easy to apply and does a good job of insulating against drafts.

You can get weather stripping in different materials like foam, felt, or rubber, and it’s easy to cut to size and stick along the edges of the window sash or frame.

This makes a nice tight seal when you close the window, stopping air from leaking out.

#2 Caulking

Caulking works well for sealing up small gaps, usually ones up to about 1/4 inch wide.

Using a caulk that can stretch without cracking (like an elastomeric one) is a good idea, especially for areas that might move a bit over time.

To use caulk, clean the area really well first, then use a caulk gun to squeeze a solid line of caulk along the gap. Smooth it out with a wet finger or a caulking tool to make it look nice and stick well.

This method is perfect for sealing gaps around the window frame where it meets the wall, both inside and outside your house.

#3 Backer Rod And Caulk

For medium-sized gaps, usually between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch, using a backer rod with caulk can give you a really good seal.

To use it, push a foam backer rod into the gap. This rod makes a backing for the caulk to sit on and helps stop the caulk from sticking on three sides, which can make it fail over time.

After you put in the backer rod, put caulk over it to create a seal that keeps out the weather.

This method works great for bigger gaps that caulk alone might not fill well.

Also Read: Can you put new siding over old wood siding?

#4 Non-Expanding Foam

Non-expanding foam is an awesome choice for filling medium to large gaps without risking messing up your window frame.

Unlike regular expanding foam, this type is made specifically for use around windows and doors.

It fills the gap but doesn’t push hard on the stuff around it, which is super important for keeping your window working right.

To use it, clean out the gap really well, then carefully squirt the foam in, following what the instructions on the can say. Once it dries, trim off any extra foam so it’s flat with the surface.

#5 Expanding Foam

For bigger gaps, usually over 1/2 inch, expanding foam insulation can work well.

But, you gotta be careful with this stuff. Expanding foam can push really hard as it dries, which could potentially warp your window frame if you don’t use it right.

When you use expanding foam, apply it sparingly because it will expand to fill the space.

Start by only partially filling the gap, leaving room for it to grow. Once it’s dry, you can add more if you need to.

After the foam has totally expanded and dried, trim off any extra to make a nice smooth surface.

Wrapping Up

Gaps between windows and frames can happen for all sorts of reasons.

Some gaps are meant to be there and are important for your window to work right, but others can cause energy loss, drafts, and maybe even water damage.

So figure out what’s causing the gap and fix it.

Remember, while you can do many of these fixes yourself, bigger gaps or those caused by structural issues might need a professional to take a look and fix them.