Where to Get Exactly What You Need for Home Improvement Projects
We live in a golden age of home improvement, where we have virtually everything we need to build and renovate a home with just a short drive or a click of a button. However, is it worth shopping at the big supermarket? Special shop? Online? Here’s how to find exactly what you need, and when you need it.
Each outlet has its own strengths and weaknesses. The key to maximizing your shopping experience is knowing when to shop online and when to shop in regular retail. Of course, your mileage can vary depending on your location, and retail stores can vary greatly in terms of inventory and employee knowledge, but these general guidelines should get you started on the right foot.
Start with a plan by shopping at the Big Box Store
Depot Home , Lowe’s and Menards dominate in the retail sales of goods for the home. Chances are, one of them is a short drive away, so they are comfortable to say the least. The best approach when shopping at a large retail store is to make a specific list of what you need and an idea of where it is in the store.
The depth of inventory and variety of products that you find in a large store are only comparable to what you can find on the Internet. Because they buy in bulk, they are often cheaper than specialized retailers. However, while you may have several options for any particular item, large boxes can be average in terms of quality, especially when it comes to buying lumber .
Contractors shop at these stores because they usually have exactly what they need to get back to work quickly (and they offer “professional discounts” to the professionals who visit them frequently).
However, the square footage of these stores is not only a feature, but also a disadvantage. Since they sell so many products, it can be difficult to find the fitting or grommet that you really need. The Lowe’s and Home Depot mobile apps can help you find specific products at your local store and tell you their aisle number and cart location. You can also purchase an item directly from the app and get it in the store.
When it comes to conversations with sellers, their knowledge can vary greatly from store to store. Better to call ahead or check online to make sure they have the role you are looking for, rather than trusting an employee who knows what you are talking about or what you are looking for.
Check out your local hardware store
Local hardware stores include very small family-run and popular stores that have been in operation for generations, as well as smaller chains with select locations such as Ace Hardware , Do It Best , Orchard Hardware, and True Value . Most of them still offer a wide variety of merchandise, but none are as overwhelming as large boxes.
Shopping at local hardware stores is usually much less impressive than large box stores, and you can come and go with what you need in less time if they have what you need. You won’t find large appliances or an equally extensive range of paints or lumber, but chances are they have exactly what you need to fix or renovate anything in your home.
Local hardware store employees are also generally more knowledgeable. They usually have small teams supplying the entire store, so they can help you find what you are looking for. They are also more likely to be able to answer questions related to your renovation issue or project (especially at mom and parent stores).
Plus, many of these stores really value your business and can help you find reliable and reputable contractors to help with your projects, especially these small independent stores. Some of them accept competitor coupons, so check our list of retailers that accept them.
Specialty suppliers is where the pros buy
When contractors have time to shop carefully or when they need certain parts, they head to specialty stores. Plumbing, lighting, and even lumber are available in specialty stores at prices that are sometimes lower than other stores.
Suppliers usually specialize in a particular product or category and have a wide variety of choices. If they don’t have what you need in stock, they can usually order it for you.
When shopping from a specialized supplier, make sure you have a good understanding of what you need (or think you need) and bring any suitable equipment or tools with you to help explain your situation. Because they work all day with professionals who know what they need, they are not always the best at understanding the DIY dilemma.
Find the best deals online
It’s hard to beat online shopping in sheer convenience and price. Even delivery times are becoming less of an issue as Amazon offers free same-day or next-day shipping. If you know exactly what part you need and can wait a few hours, buying online is the best option.
Better to buy locally larger items that are expensive to ship or something delicate. Likewise, if you don’t know exactly what you want, or have to go to the store a few times to try different options, it is obviously best to go to the local market. You can usually return the equipment online, but this can be a problem and it definitely takes time.