Door Repair & Installation in Boston
Door repair and installation services for Boston homes. Fix sticking doors, replace hardware, and install new interior and exterior doors in older homes.
Doors in older Boston homes rarely stay perfectly aligned. Foundations settle, frames shift with seasonal humidity changes, and decades of paint buildup turn a smooth operation into a daily frustration. A door that sticks, drags, or will not latch properly is not just an annoyance — it affects comfort, energy efficiency, and security.
Why Boston Doors Stick and Fail
In a city where housing stock spans three centuries, door problems follow predictable patterns. Triple-deckers and brownstones settle unevenly over time, pulling frames out of square. Older solid-core doors absorb moisture and swell in humid summers, then shrink in dry winters. Layers of paint — sometimes a dozen or more — build up on edges and hinges. Hardware wears out, strike plates shift, and weatherstripping deteriorates.
Exterior doors face additional stress from New England weather. Wind, rain, and freeze-thaw cycles take a toll on thresholds, sweeps, and seals.
What We Fix and Install
- Sticking or binding interior doors
- Doors that will not latch or stay closed
- Hinge replacement and realignment
- Lockset, deadbolt, and handle upgrades
- Weatherstripping and threshold replacement
- Interior door installation (prehung and slab)
- Exterior door adjustments and hardware
- Pocket door repairs
- Bifold and closet door fixes
- Storm door installation and repair
Our Process
We diagnose the root cause before picking up a tool. A sticking door might need planing, or it might need hinge shimming, or the frame itself may need adjustment. The fix depends on the cause, and the cause is not always obvious.
For installations, we ensure the frame is plumb and level, even when the surrounding structure is not — a common reality in older buildings. We test operation, adjust latching, and confirm weathertight seals on exterior doors.
Why It Matters
A door that works properly is one you never think about. One that sticks, scrapes, or fails to seal is something you deal with multiple times a day. Properly functioning doors also contribute to energy efficiency, sound isolation between rooms, and home security.
Schedule a Repair
Whether you have one problem door or a houseful of them, we can diagnose and fix the issue efficiently. We work throughout the Boston metro area. Reach out to schedule a visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a handyman cost in Boston?
Rates typically range from $75 to $125 per hour depending on the scope of work and materials needed. Smaller tasks on the lower end, more involved repairs toward the higher end. Every job is different, so I provide free estimates so you know exactly what to expect before any work begins.
Do you charge a minimum for small jobs?
Yes, there is a minimum charge for small jobs. This covers travel time, setup, and cleanup — all the behind-the-scenes work that goes into even a quick repair. Most clients find it's well worth it since I handle the job right the first time, and you can always bundle a few small tasks together to get the most value from a visit.
Can I get a free estimate?
Absolutely. For most jobs I can provide a ballpark estimate over the phone or by email if you send a few photos. For larger or more complex projects, I'll schedule a quick on-site visit at no charge. Either way, you'll have a clear idea of cost before any work starts.
Do you charge for estimates?
No. Estimates are free for the vast majority of jobs. If a project requires significant research or an extended on-site evaluation, I'll let you know upfront. But for standard repairs and improvements, there's never a charge just to find out what it'll cost.
How does pricing work for multiple repairs?
Bundling several repairs into one visit is the most cost-effective approach. Since I'm already on-site with tools and materials, each additional task costs less than it would as a standalone appointment. I'll give you a single estimate that covers everything so there are no surprises.
Do you charge extra for older Boston homes?
There's no surcharge for older homes. That said, repairs in pre-war homes, brownstones, and triple-deckers sometimes take longer due to plaster walls, non-standard framing, or layers of old paint. I'll factor that into the estimate upfront so you know what to expect.
What forms of payment do you accept?
I accept cash, personal checks, all major credit and debit cards, and Venmo. Payment is due upon completion of the work. For larger projects, we can discuss a deposit arrangement if needed.
Are your prices different on weekends?
No. Saturday appointments are available at the same rate as weekday jobs. I know Boston schedules are busy, and weekend availability shouldn't come with a penalty. Saturday hours are 8 AM to 2 PM.
How far in advance should I book?
Most jobs can be scheduled within a week. During the busiest times — late summer for back-to-school apartment turnovers and spring for exterior work — it's smart to book two weeks out. For routine repairs, a few days' notice usually works fine.
What are your hours?
Regular hours are Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 6 PM, and Saturday 8 AM to 2 PM. I try to accommodate scheduling needs when possible, especially for condo buildings that restrict work to certain hours.
Do you work on Sundays?
No, I don't schedule work on Sundays. In dense Boston neighborhoods, weekend noise can be a real issue for neighbors, and everyone deserves a quiet day. Saturday morning slots are available if weekdays don't work for you.
How long does a typical repair take?
It depends on the scope. A simple fix like tightening a loose railing or patching a small hole might take 30 minutes. Hanging a door, repairing plaster, or assembling furniture could take one to three hours. I'll give you a time estimate along with the price estimate so you can plan your day.
Can you work while I'm not home?
Yes, many clients leave a key or provide building access so I can complete the work while they're at their office. After 20-plus years in this business, trust is everything, and I'm happy to provide references. I'll send you photos of the completed work and lock up when I'm done.
What if it rains on a scheduled exterior job?
If rain or severe weather makes exterior work impractical, I'll reach out to reschedule at no extra charge. New England weather is unpredictable, and there's no sense doing a job that won't hold up because of wet conditions. We'll find the next available dry day.
Do you offer emergency repairs?
I do my best to accommodate same-day requests when my schedule allows, especially for urgent issues like a broken lock or a water-damaged ceiling that needs immediate attention. Call directly for the fastest response — I'll let you know right away if I can make it out that day.
Need Door Repair & Installation?
Get a clear estimate before the work begins. Professional repairs without the hassle.