Very honest! Was not able to help with my job but was upfront about it vs other companies I've dealt with

Bill is a true craftsman! I've had a wood gate that has needed rebuilding for the last 8 years. Pieces of the wood gate were rotting. Over the years, I've had other handymen pass on the project. I had a handyman who was able to fill the rotted areas with wood filler, sand it, and restain it. I've even had a gate company tell me that they could not save the gate; it would need to be completely replaced. Bill was able to cut out the rotted pieces of wood, replace them, and restain the whole gate (he also repainted the decorative hardware on the door as well). Moreover, he discussed the project with a buddy of his and they determined that the gate was sitting over a muddy part of landscaping which is probably what facilitated the deterioration of the wood. We found some leftover pavers in our storage shed and Bill extended the pavers so the gate would sit over pavers instead of mud. Before he embarked on the wood gate repair, Bill also installed a valance/shade over a window. He made the necessary calculations to ensure that the valance/shade would be centered on the wall and window. He also made sure that the valence was leveled. Bill is honest, meticulous and detail-oriented. If you want someone to treat your project and your home, like it's his own, I would give Bill a call. read more

See all

Bill is outstanding. Bill is absolutely the best for woodworking and detailing custom projects with wood. Bill took time on a Saturday to talk to me about issues I was having a bathroom issue. Even though he does do that work he took 30 minutes to educate me and save big $ with another contractor. Thank you Bill read more

We contacted Bill for the replacement of the right side window shutter, which is warped and needs to be replaced. This is the 3rd time we used Handy Craftsman's service. The left side window shutter was rebuilt by Bill many years ago and still looks solid today. Bill arrives on time (actually early). We went to Ganahl Lumber in Costa Mesa to purchase needed materials based on Bill's list so he didn't need to waste any time on the commute. He was able to do the prep work (removal, measurements, setting up equipment etc) while we were out getting materials. We ask for the new right shutter to match the existing shutter and that's exactly what Bill delivered. Each board needs to be precisely cut, bevelled, primed on all ends followed by two coats of exterior paint. We bought the materials and pay Bill for the labor by hour. Bill also helped us adjust our French door to minimize friction opening/closing and fixed our side gate which had a loose jam/hinge. We love his meticulous quality work and his integrity as a professional. We learn over the past 16 years managing properties that it is worthwhile paying for quality work using quality materials. We appreciate Bill's service and would highly recommend him to anyone who appreciates high quality work that lasts. read more

See all

Bill did an outstanding job installing our fireplace mantel (see photo)! Out of the box, a few areas needed some fine‑tuning, he immediately understood the vision and had a solution to make it all fit like a glove. He came out on just a week's notice, was straightforward from start to finish in timing and cost, and his skill really showed in the final result. We appreciated how communicative he was throughout the process, making everything seamless. It was also a pleasure chatting with him and learning about the other services he offers-- true craftsman. Highly recommend Bill for anyone looking for quality work and a great experience. read more

Handy Craftsman - New Fireplace Mantel installed! - Handyman Near Me - Oceanside, California

Thoroughly pleased with Bill and his excellent work. I needed a gate repair and he exceeded all expectations. Responsive, on time, and reasonably priced. I highly recommend this business. read more

Thank you Bill for all your help!! You did a wonderful job with all my requests. We will definitely be calling you in the future. read more

We had a few projects around the house that needed tackling and Bill delivered. He was very communicative and walked us through everything he was doing. He arrived on time and completed the work in a timely manner. He was very positive and had a great attitude throughout. All the projects came out great and we are glad we found him and will use his services again. read more

Bill is a craftsman who likes to find the right solution for the problem instead of the easiest or cheapest. He really looks at things from the homeowner perspective, and brings decades of experience to the table. He responds in detail, gives great advice, and wants to teach the homeowner as well as complete the work. He's a very social person, and happy to explain his work. Happy we contacted him! read more

Our old gazebo has rusted metal roof and Bill was honest about he had never seen this type of roof before but he was willing to take a look to see if he could help somehow. He came up with ideas how to fix it and helped us ordering some materials through Amazon. He charged $150/hour and was able to do most of the work in 3 hours. He showed us how to do the rest so we could stay within our budget. The result was satisfaction, but we weren't looking for perfection. With Bill's help we are confident that our gazebo will last us for a few more years down the road. read more

Bill is absolutely wonderful! He was able to come out within a day of contacting him and fix our light fixtures and outdoor lighting. Not only did he complete the job, but he is a genuinely good person who is honest and kind. He takes his work very seriously, and also took the time to explain everything to me, which was really insightful. We look forward to working with Bill in the future. He is now part of our family! read more

I am so glad I found Bill to work with me. Bill did an excellent job. I needed a knowledgeable craftsman that could repair and redo work that originally wasn't done correctly by another carpenter. I hired Bill to repair and redo the work that I wanted on a beam, and I wanted a decorative design on the end of the beam. The hard work he put in shows his expertise. I would certainly call him again! read more

Bill came in on time however, there was no fixed quote provided. What I anticipated as 2-3 hours worth of work took 6 hours with my husband helping for all 6 hours. He didn't bring right tools so I had to run to home depot for needed blades. He charged $125/hr and didn't deduct the cost of blades - basically saying he used his equipment. Worst of all, project didn't complete, but he said he has to leave for an appointment. He refused to come back after the appointment, didn't want to come next 2 days as he doesn't work weekends. Recommendation - DO NOT HIRE HIM. If choose to hire him, get a fixed price estimate. This was worst $800 I spent and that too with job still unfinished. read more

I'd give 10 stars if I could! I have a small townhouse and am always searching for ways to maximize storage. I have a small oddly shaped closet over the stairs that nobody would work on. I had closet companies come in to look and just shake their heads and say we can't help you. Very frustrating. I found Bill here on Yelp and was impressed by his reviews. I went through the pictures and was even more impressed. This guy obviously takes great pride in doing a great job! We had a few messages and since he had some free time, booked him to come out. I explained what I was looking for - quality construction that must look good too. Or as I told him, it has to look pretty. He didn't laugh at my description... he knew what to do. The shelves are amazing, very strong, attractive and maximize the space better than I could have imagined. I can't wait to get them organized! I also was interested in upgrading the window seat in my bedroom to some type of storage - either drawers or a toy chest type of access. He gave me his recommendations and design ideas because once again I wanted it to look pretty and be functional. I am so glad I trusted his recommendations... he created an amazing, huge storage area that is finished just beautifully. I could fit a body in this thing now! I am beyond thrilled with the work Bill did. Everything looks very finished and professional. I have been trying to figure out this puzzle for years and he solved my problem in two days. Bill was extremely professional and just a pleasure to work with. He was very dedicated and focused on the work. He was very respectful of my home and cleaned as he went, sweeping out my garage from the sawdust from his table saw. He's very personable, knowledgeable and a very nice guy! I will not hesitate to call Bill for any projects in the future! Thank you Bill for your amazing work! You can't even know how thrilled I am!! read more

I hired Bill to repair a broken arm of an antique mirror base, and he handled it with precision and clear expertise in delicate/antique woodwork. Thanks so much for all the hard work, it's so appreciated. Would definitely hire again! read more

See all

Bill was the perfect man for the job! I requested a quote through yelp, he responded right away with a fair and clear estimate. Booking was smooth- be prepared to share pictures of what you need and your address. He confirms the job and then showed up on time (early actually!) he was friendly and let me be curious about the process. He was nice to my dog which is always bonus points. He got both projects done on time and everything works beautifully. read more

I messaged Bill last week to find someone who could create a media storage space for the odd area under our low fireplace mantle. I drew up a rough digital design and within a couple of days, we had locked a day and time and a reasonable flat fee for the project and materials. Yesterday, he arrived very promptly (wearing a mask which I appreciated!) at 8:30am and we took about 15 minutes to go over measurements and final plans. He then went to a local lumber yard to pick up the wood and came back with some beautiful birch plywood and poplar. He set up shop next to my garage (and was very flexible working around a couple of other folks who were completing misc house projects). By mid afternoon, he was finished! I popped in periodically to see progress and he made extra effort to custom cut the poplar beams and sand things to perfection. At Bill's recommendation, I ended up applying a satin varnish myself that night which really let the wood shine naturally. The "drawer" pulls out on felt pads to protect the floors and we can now store all our miscellaneous electronics inside! Thank you, Bill! read more

See all

I called Bill to put new door handles and locks on my front door. He did a great job! He was efficient and showed great attention to detail. I would recommend Bill for many handyman jobs around the house! He has a wide variety of skills!! Thanks Bill. Our new door handles and locks look great! read more

Highly recommend Bill of Handy Craftsman. He came to my house during the quarantine to install a fridge. He showed up on time and with latex gloves and masks. Needless to say this made my wife and me feel less anxious and confirmed we made the right choice. Had him also install swing doors on our closet instead of the builder spec bypass ones. Completed both jobs within a fair time and surpassed my expectations, especially on the fridge trim. In summary, if you need work done during this crazy time - or after it for that matter - give Bill a call. read more

Handy Craftsman - Bill installing our fridge with mask and gloves during OC quarantine. - Handyman Near Me - Oceanside, California

I needed a custom cabinet built to replace one that had been rendered unusable. It was a small but time consuming job. Bill came on time and got right to work. He takes pride in his work and it showed. He did not try to milk the job for more money than necessary. His rate was fair and I was very pleased with the new cabinet. I would definitely recommend him. read more

Bill is the best. We originally hired Bill just to install new cabinet hardware, hang mirror and some frames. While he was here, we also asked him to do the following: -1. fix the ring doorbell my husband tried to install himself. Not only did Bill work on it, he showed my husband what he needed to do so he can learn too 2. .fixed 2 towel bars, one ripped off wall so he reinforced drywall and patched it 3. Replace all smoke detectors 4. Daughter dropped earrings in sink so Bill showed me how he was going to get it out, he made it seem so easy. After Bill put back together because I thought we found all 3 earrings, she said there was a 4th so Bill told me how to look for it since it was a hoop and got stuck. I found it and put everything back. Bill checked my work and I passed. Now I will know how to find anything that drops in her sink again. It is great Bill takes time to educate us 5. Fixed my side wood gate and tightened latch so more secure 6. Fixed latch on sliding glass door 7. Got old pull out trash under sink out that had rusted screws 8. Glued baseboard piece that chipped off and told me what to do once glue dries 9. Electrician had installed new outlets and i was telling Bill it wasn't working. bill brought in the little device to check to make sure they all work even though not his job and I told him electrician was coming. Very nice of him to check for me Bill texted me after the weekend just to check and see how everything went with all his work. Not only is Bill super knowledgeable, friendly, good work ethic , he takes the time to educate homeowner. Bill is very down to earth and easy to work with, very straight forward. I highly recommend him. I look forward to working with him again. read more

We had a great experience working with Bill. He worked on our fences that had issues closing and did a great job. He went above and beyond, finding additional issues that we hadn't noticed and fixed additional fences as well. The price was also great - we are very pleased with the level of quality for the price we paid. Thanks Bill! We'll definitely be reaching out for future work! read more

Bill installed recessed ceiling lights and light switches throughout my house and fixed my shower stall door amongst a few other miscellaneous tasks that weren't originally planned. He discovered some issues with installing the lights after he got started but was upfront and honest that it may take longer than originally expected. He provided some options to me and we proceeded with installing the lights which ended up coming within the original budget. He was very responsive in scheduling and answering all the questions that I had along with providing recommendations to achieve what I wanted. I am completely satisfied and will be calling him again when I need more work done in the future. read more

At the price Handyman was charging, Bill was quick and thorough! Did the tasks on my list in an efficient manner so as to not waste time and got the job done in 4 hours. He hung up 2 TV's (with the TV mounts); hung a wall-mounted medicine cabinet; re-hung a towel bar; put up my makeup mirror; and switched out a shower head with hand held shower spray for me. Bill even ran to Home Depot to pick up a few hardware that I was missing. I reiterate - efficient and quick! Hey - he even noticed that the contractor installed a deadbolt upside down! read more

I'll get right to the point. On time, efficient with his time, meticulously through. Not to mention he's just a nice guy to talk to and easy going. Thanks for great job Bill! read more

Handy Craftsman - Pull up bar - Handyman Near Me - Oceanside, California

See all

Bill did a great job fixing an interior door at our home and was a pleasure to work with. I would happily hire him again.

I call a few contractors for help with a couple of sticking exterior doors. Since the doors and frames are metal, most of the people I talked to refused to work on them. I called Bill, Handy Craftsman, he texted back immediately, and came out the next morning. Bill did an excellent job of getting the doors to open freely. I highly recommend Bill for your home needs. read more

Bill helped us convert a built-in cabinet space into a bedroom closet, complete with barn door. After demoing the built-in, Bill expertly repaired the drywall, added new trim, built a header for the barn door track, and even installed some extra flooring we had in the closet. The end result is fantastic. Bill is very kind and has a great work ethic. He communicates with his clients at every step of the project to make sure you are satisfied. He truly cares about his work and that his customers are happy. Highly recommend reaching out to Bill for your next project. read more

Bill worked on a number of doors at our house, including the installation of two replacement doors in our garage and some repair work to our front door. He did a fantastic job and was very clear regarding all aspects of the projects, from materials to final work. It is obvious he is a very precise craftsman with attention to fine detail. I hope to get to work with him again in the future on some custom carpentry work. Overall a great experience! read more

Bill mounted 13 floating shelves for me - it was fairly involved because the shelves were long (most 55" or 64" long), heavy (solid oak), and not pre-drilled for the mounts. He had to drill out 32 mounting holes on the shelves, which needed to be perfectly lined up with the mounting pegs that he put into the studs. Getting everything centered on the walls, lined up with each other, level (side-to-side and front-to-back), and snug required a lot of precise measurement and hard work. Even though it was clearly more than he thought he originally was getting into (due to having to drill out the mounting holes), he took it in stride, worked hard to finish everything within one afternoon, and the end result was great - everything is secure, level, lines up, flush to the walls, and no sagging! Bill was very helpful about brainstorming the best way to approach the project and I couldn't be happier with the results. He was also very considerate of Covid - wore a mask while working and did a lot of the prep work outside, so I felt very comfortable having him at our home. read more

See all

Bill did several projects at our house a couple of months ago and they each turned out excellently. 1) He re-aligned our front door which had shifted and become hard to close 2) He built a new crawlspace door/hatch and mounted it 3) He refitted, resurfaced, painted, and added new hardware to an external door that was definitely showing it's age Bill was great to work with - great communication, timely, a very hard worker (it was HOT!), and very thoughtful to provide the best possible approach within our budget. I will definitely contact him again next time we can use his services. read more

I used Handy Craftsman to install handles on cabinets, install door hinges, and fix a few door alignments around my house. He had great attention to detail and made sure everything installed was just as I had hoped. His work product was very good and I will definitely use him going forward for any other projects I have around the house. I have hired a handful of handymen since we have moved into our house a year ago and he has been the best I have hired so far. read more

I had a large wall art piece that needed to be hung on my wall but had no means of doing so myself. I reached out and got a quick response and was scheduled next day! We had success in hanging it up and it looks great. Very happy with the outcome. Thank you! read more

Handy Craftsman - Handyman Near Me - Oceanside, California

See all

I needed the back legs of a sink cabinet cut out to fit the shape of my baseboard. Bill is very skilled with his tools and I am very pleased with the results. read more

Handy Craftsman - Back legs of sink cabinet cut out. - Handyman Near Me - Oceanside, California

Bill was fantastic. He helped me design a bedframe, and then built it quickly, improving the design as he went. He also quickly and effectively moved our garage door opener about a foot to be next to the door, patching the old spots so that you would not know it had been moved. I highly recommend him for anybody. read more

We had multiple door alignment issues in our home that had gone through the gammet of handymen and contractors to try and fix with very unfavorable results. After reviewing Bill's work, I reached out to him to get a quote and after speaking to him on the phone for just a few minutes, it was evident that Bill was the right man for the job given his deep carpentry experience. We set an appointment for the next day. Bill was punctual (actually got there a few minutes early), respected my request to keep his mask on during the entirety of the process and true to his word, within the allotted time was able to successfully correct the issues that had plagued the home for many months! His work was clean, he cleaned up after himself and as he happened to have some extra time, helped me out with a few additional quick tasks that required attention. I'm thoroughly satisfied with the work provided and Bill's personality and will definitely work with him again and recommend Bill to anyone seeking any carpentry and handyman-esque projects. read more

Bill was able to turn around a project for us actually overnight this week. We caught him with a free day - he came bright and early to meet with my husband prior to leaving for the office at 715am, was masked and very aware/cautious of COVID. Made us feel really comfortable. We had big plans in mind for the garage, what I appreciated about Bill was that he was able to salvage a lot of the wood from our cabinets and repurpose to build the new shelving we wanted. Saved us a lot of extra money in supplies! He came in and then also gave me bids on other projects in the house. We are new to Laguna and feeling really grateful we have a new handyman we can rely on. Thanks Bill! read more

Handy Craftsman - Before - with the old cabinets - Handyman Near Me - Oceanside, California

See all

I'd been looking for someone to help me install a hoist for the top of my Jeep Wrangler and it seemed most people either had no idea what I was talking about or was quoted something extremely crazy high. I used yelp's search one last time and I got a response and was able to get an appointment setup for Labor Day Monday! He came on time, i had all the hardware and got the job done quickly and professionally. I had estimated 4 hours for the job, he finished in 3.5. I highly recommend and I will be calling him for other projects around my home in the near future. read more

See all

I discovered damaged wood in my garage thanks to termites. I saw the many great reviews on Yelp and decided to call the Handy Craftsman. Bill is honest, up front and on-time. He's got the tools, experience and made quick work of the repairs that I needed. Thanks Bill, I really appreciate it. read more

Handy Craftsman - top plate replaced in garage - Handyman Near Me - Oceanside, California

Had a great experience with Bill! He came by and did not only the planned items on our agenda, but also a few other things. I'm very detailed and a stickler for good work, and he did everything really well without cutting corners. His truck literally has everything you can imagine in it. I was missing bolts and screws, etc and he had everything with the perfect sizing readily available to save time. He helped us put up shelves and mirrors in the garage, mount a TV, as well as move some cables around. I'd absolutely use Bill again in the future. read more