2006-08-04 17:31:19 · 11 answers · asked by Rick K 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
better to the regular hardware store but the problem is they are disappearing fast. and they close too early. it's like walmart, it is very convenient, but part of the evil empire. sometimes you have to do what is better for you at the moment, but try to schedule a trip there and not leave it til you are forced to use the megastores.
2006-08-04 17:37:13 · answer #1 · answered by Carmella R 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I use the local hardware store/building center. The people are nicer, more knowledgeable, and the prices are much better than Lowes. And the quality of the goods is far superior. We don't have a Home Depot out here (yet.) But I'll bet they are comparable to Lowes in pricing and quality. I did go into the Lowes once, just to nose around. I was NOT impressed. Several groups of employees were clustered around talking. Couldn't get anyone to help me. Not so with the hardware store. Those guys run all over you to help!
2006-08-04 20:33:36 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Use them all. I prefer the local mom and pop hardware stores, if they have enough of a selection to not be a waste of your time. It's always good to patronize local businesses but I fear their days are numbered. I have noticed that of those mom and pop stores that are still open, many are doing a good business though.
Once I know what they stock in merchandise, the next step is to do some comparative price shopping. Figure out who has the best prices for which lines of products. Once you have that figured out you will know where to go for what kinds of products to get the best price. Assuming quality is all the same. When you are in one store, think back of what you purchased recently in one of the other types of stores, how much you paid for it, and then go find the same product in the store you are in presently. Did you get a good price for it? This prevents you from having to go to both types of stores (and multiple stores) for one product where the price differential may not justify the expense of driving around. And wasting the time.
You never asked about the internet. Why not shop on-line for some products? I recently entered a question on this web site that received no responses. A do it your self question. So it was up to me.
I went on line found a product that is 'touted' as being the best in the business and has a sound reputation for 125 years. Was also able to find third party testimonials endorsing this product. Several of them.
Can't wait to get it in the mail to try it.
2006-08-05 00:46:05 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I prefer a locally owned trusted hardware store, but they are few and far between. I will go to to Menards, then Home Depot as a last resort. I don't have a Lowes near me.
2006-08-04 17:38:38 · answer #4 · answered by Tommy D 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Home Depot because they're good on exchanges! Lowes was AWEFUL for me and had a smaller selection, but if your local hardware store has the right stuff, then go there, if you know you don't need to switch whatever it is.
2006-08-04 17:35:41 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I buy a lot of brass plumbing fittings for my job. Home Depot and Lowes sell some real garbage and they charge a premium for it. I use the local hardware store if I can find one.
2006-08-04 17:38:08 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
depends small Jobs why drive across town to the home depot r Lowe's. my town doesn't have a local hardware store now i sure miss them
2006-08-04 17:47:25 · answer #7 · answered by george w 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I prefer the local hardware store. Most of the time I can walk in there an they know my name. They know exactly what I need and where I can find it and don't have to ask 15 different people where a flourescent light bulb for under my range hood is!
2006-08-04 17:37:48 · answer #8 · answered by FunBetty! 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you're doing something major it pays off big-time to shop around. If you're just picking something up, it's always nice to patronize a local business.
btw: Home Depot does NOT always have the best price!!!!
2006-08-04 17:36:23 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Both are great for some home project shopping.
Unless the project has anything to do with general weather proofing, restoration or concrete repair.
general weather proofing- The caulks and sealants that both of these chains are inferior products compared to professional contractor grade products available.
restoration-concrete repair- Both of these chains sell mixes, rebar , fiber tubes, epoxies for about 38-47% margin over cost.
Most of these products are close to pro grade.
You could do much better at your local construction supply house like Carter-Waters, White Cap, Enco Materials, Goedecke and Janell.
2006-08-05 00:06:46 · answer #10 · answered by biz owner 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋