Door Repair and Window Repair in San Francisco
A door that sticks, will not latch or lets in a draft, and a window that is painted shut or will not stay open, are among the most common problems in San Francisco homes. Most of them are repairable without replacing the door or window.
Door and window repairs included
- Sticking or rubbing doors planed, rehung or adjusted
- Sagging doors fixed by tightening or replacing hinges and screws
- Latches and strike plates realigned so the door closes properly
- Sliding closet doors and patio door rollers and tracks
- Pocket doors that jump the track
- Door stops, closers and sweeps
- Sash windows freed when painted shut, with cords and pulleys where accessible
- Window latches, locks, cranks and screens
Why doors and windows stick in SF
Wood swells in damp weather. In fog-heavy areas like the Sunset, Richmond and near the coast, doors and wood windows often stick in summer fog and loosen in dry spells. Planing a door too much during a damp week can leave a gap later, so the fix should allow for seasonal movement.
Older homes settle, and a house that has shifted over decades can leave door frames out of square. Earthquakes can also rack frames. Many older homes have wood double-hung sash windows that have been painted shut many times. Homes built before 1978 may contain lead paint, so scraping and sanding old window sashes and door edges should follow lead-safe practices.
Before the visit
- Note when the problem happens: always, or only in damp weather
- Take a short video of the door or window in action
- Have any replacement hardware you bought on hand
- If you rent, tell your landlord, since many repairs are their responsibility
When it needs a specialist
Broken or cracked glass and fogged double-pane units are glazier work. Replacing a whole window or an exterior door frame can require a licensed contractor and, in some cases, a permit. Rot that reaches the framing around a door or window also goes beyond handyman scope. In California, handyman work must stay under $1,000 including labor and materials. For door and window repair across San Francisco and the Bay Area, book 24/7 and ask about same-day appointments when a slot is open.
