In-Store Services You Can Get At A Hardware Store

When you are preparing for a DIY project or you need tools, you probably visit your local hardware store, get what you need and leave. But you may not be aware that hardware stores have branched out and become full-service outlets that can offer you a lot more than just tools and fixtures. So with that in mind, here are some of the more common in-store services these stores offer.

Wood Cutting -- Whether you're building a small bird house, or you're a contractor who needs lumber for a bigger project, a hardware store can cut that wood for you while you wait. The only caveat with wood cutting is that you need to purchase the lumber from the hardware store in order to to receive the cutting for free. However, if you bring in your own lumber and want it cut to specifications, you can pay a fee to have this service done. Wood cutting saves you the time of having to make precise measurements, and is also advantageous if you don't have wood cutting machines and tools at home.

Propane Tank Exchange -- If you own a gas grill, you will need a propane tank to power the grill. Hardware stores offer propane exchange service, in which you take your empty propane tank to the store, and exchange it for one that is full. You also have the option of buying a new tank if you don't have one of your own, which will cost you a little bit more, but allows you to then come in for refills without having to buy another tank.

Home Improvement Calculators -- Most hardware stores have free home improvement calculators that let you run numbers and measurements on projects before you get started. For example, if you're installing new carpet, a hardware store carpet calculator can you provide you with the amount of square meters of carpet you need by taking the figures for the width of your room and the length and then providing you with an estimate of the amount of carpet you will need.

In a similar way, a paint calculator offered by a hardware store lets you enter the number of walls you are painting, then asks for the height and width of those walls, and then lets you know how many square meters of wall you are painting, and how much paint and primer is needed to do the job.

Tool And Equipment Rental -- If you don't have a set of tools at home, you can rent what you need from a hardware store. There are some jobs that you may only do once every few years, so buying certain tools doesn't make financial sense. Instead, you're better off renting these tools from your local hardware store. Popular rental tools include power saws, chain saws and power drills. You can also rent equipment such as power rakes, lawn spreaders, pressure washers and carpet blowers. Most tools and equipment are available for hourly or daily rent.