Insights from Minnesota Contractors: Survey Results for Market Impact
Windows Market Insights Reports: Residential Windows Contractors
This report details windows contractor views on residential windows and emerging windows technologies, including high-efficiency products like triple-pane windows. This effort largely represents the views of contractors at smaller companies who primarily worked on retrofit or replacement projects.
Executive Summary: Contractor Survey Results
High-efficiency windows, typically triple-pane with a U-Factor of 0.22 or lower, improve a home’s energy performance while reducing noise, condensation, and thermal discomfort. Yet, despite their benefits, these products remain underused in Minnesota’s residential market. The Wise Window Hub (WWH), an initiative of Minnesota’s Efficient Technology Accelerator (ETA), is working to change that by equipping builders, architects, and contractors with the data, resources, and tools to confidently integrate high-efficiency windows into their projects.
2025 Contractor Research Snapshot
To better understand how contractors perceive and use high-efficiency windows, the ETA conducted:
- 39 contractor surveys across Minnesota
- 10 follow-up interviews with participating contractors
- Respondents primarily represented small, metro-area firms focused on retrofit and replacement projects.
What We Heard from Contractors
Experience and Use: 82% have installed high-efficiency windows, but typically only for niche or customer-requested projects. Most agree the technology performs well, but 90% believe double-pane windows meet most customer needs.
Perceptions and Barriers: Cost remains the biggest hurdle; contractors estimate high-efficiency windows cost $170 more per unit than equivalent double-pane options. Many contractors question payback value and long-term durability, citing concerns about product weight.
Market Trends: Sales remain a small but growing segment; 44% have seen growth in the past five years, and 51% expect that to continue. Lead times are comparable to standard products (typically 4–7 weeks).
Education and Training: 86% are confident in installation but still value learning opportunities; two-thirds say additional training is worth their time. Winter training is most preferred. Nearly all (97%) rely on manufacturers for product information, but many welcome neutral, third-party education from resources like the Wise Window Hub.
Key Takeaways for Contractors
Expand Awareness – There’s strong familiarity but limited proactive use. Targeted education can shift perception from “niche upgrade” to “smart standard.”
Address Cost Conversations – Clear, data-driven tools on performance and long-term value help contractors justify upgrades to homeowners.
Support from Trusted Sources – Builders and installers are eager for unbiased, practical guidance on installation, specifications, and homeowner messaging.
Collaborate for Change – Coordinated training and communications can build the confidence needed to make high-efficiency windows part of every new build and retrofit.