Window hardware I fix
- Casement crank operators and handles replaced on steel, wood and vinyl windows
- Painted-shut sash locks freed, cleaned or replaced on double-hung windows
- Slider latches and keepers swapped and realigned
- Sash cords and balances checked so windows stay up
- Ventilation stops added so windows can open a little and stay secure
- Stiff hinges and arms on casements cleaned and lubricated
Older windows in San Gabriel
San Gabriel’s Historic Resources Survey covers many early and mid-century houses, and the Housing Element preliminary report counts 52.3 percent of homes as more than 60 years old. That means a lot of original steel casements and wood sash windows, plus aluminum sliders from later updates, each with its own hardware.
Original hardware is often worth keeping. A sash lock buried under paint can usually be cleaned and reset, and many steel casement operators are still made in matching sizes.
How I repair it
Look at the window
I check the window type, how it’s sticking, and what hardware is on it.
Free or remove
Paint is cut, screws are freed, and the old part comes out without damaging the frame.
Repair or replace
The original is cleaned and reset when it can be; otherwise a matching part goes in.
Test with you
Each window is opened, closed and locked before I leave.
When it’s more than hardware
Broken glass, rusted-through steel frames, or full window restoration go to a glass shop or a window restorer.
On the same San Gabriel visit, people also tend to ask about window screen repair, sliding glass door repair or lock and door hardware replacement.
What to text
A photo of the crank or lock, the whole window, and any brand stamp on the frame or hardware.
Window lock and crank questions
Why does my window crank spin but the window won’t open?
The gears in the operator have stripped. Replacing the operator fixes it.
Can you fix a sash lock that’s painted shut?
Yes. I cut the paint, free the lock, and clean or replace it.
Can a handyman repair old steel casement windows?
The hardware, yes: cranks, handles and hinges. Rusted frames go to a restorer.
Why won’t my window stay up?
Broken sash cords or worn balances. Those can often be repaired.
How much does window crank repair cost?
It depends on the part. Send a photo for a free estimate before anything is booked.
Can you add a lock to a window that has none?
Yes, sash locks or pin locks fit most windows.
Window tips for San Gabriel homes
- Old wood windows that stick, rattle or slam shutWhy old wood windows in San Gabriel homes stick, rattle or will not stay open, and how we free painted sashes and repair sash cords and hardware.
- Hanging curtain rods, blinds and shelves in thick wallsHow to hang curtain rods, blinds and shelves in the thick plaster walls and deep window reveals of San Gabriel's Mission Revival and adobe-style homes.
We’re a handyman in San Gabriel for small repairs like this one, with an upfront price by text.
This job sits in our doors, cabinets and hardware group. For other repairs, see the services overview, or start with the repair guide for San Gabriel’s older homes.