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When you’re in the trades, time is money—and finding what you need Time is money when you’re working in the trades. Every minute counts, so it’s crucial to find what you need fast. That’s why a lot of techs and contractors hit up Amazon, Home Depot or Lowes to grab stuff on the go. But here’s the thing; if you don’t take a look, at the product details you could be asking for trouble. You might end up with something that doesn’t work right and thats not a hassle, for you. It can also let your clients down.
Big box stores, like Home Depot and Lowes are a DIYers dream come true.
You can find about anything you need for your project from nuts and bolts to sinks and lumber. They’re like a one stop shop for anyone looking to tackle a home improvement project on their own.. Lets be honest who doesn’t love saving a buck by doing it themselves? These stores are basically designed with the DIY crowd, in mind offering a range of products and tools to help you get the job done.
The truth is, stores, like Amazon and Home Depot are geared towards homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. They’re set up to cater to the person, not pros who need top notch gear every day. As a result a lot of what they sell is focused on being cheap looking good or being easy to use. Not on withstanding the wear and tear of use on a job site. It’s all about meeting the needs of weekend warriors, than those of professionals who require consistency and quality in their equipment. Honestly it’s just not their priority.
So what’s generally okay to purchase?
There’s nothing, with picking up parts from these shops. Really for some stuff it doesn’t matter where you get it from. Things like components. Most people, in the trade think these are fine to buy from about anywhere. For instance a few items that are generally considered safe to purchase from these stores are;
When it comes to cable and wire the key thing is to make sure you’re checking the specs. Long as you do that you’re good to go. Cable and wire can be used, no problem.
When it comes to setting up a space you’ll need some fittings to get started. These are the essentials that make your life easier and a bit brighter literally.
I’m looking at outlet covers and faceplates. The things that go over your outlets to make them look nicer and protect kids from sticking their fingers in them.
When its time to build you’re going to need some basics, like Sheetrock and lumber. Just remember to inspect them before you start. You don’t want any low quality materials messing up your project.
When all else fails everyday hand tools can get the job done. These are tools that’re aren’t specific, to any one trade or industry. Just your run of the mill stuff that can help in a tight spot.
When it boils down to the stuff. Like valves, parts that are specific, to a certain brand or heavy duty tools used in your industry. Buying from anywhere else but a local distributor or straight, from the manufacturer is a big risk. You’re basically taking a chance. Hoping for the best if you don’t go through one of these trusted sources.
The way we think about warranties has changed. It’s no longer, about getting a guarantee that something will work. It’s a different ball game now.
So what’s one of the headaches trade businesses face when they buy from retailers?
No guarantees are given here.
When something claims to have a “lifetime warranty” that sounds amazing. But here’s the thing. That warranty is only as good, as where you bought it from. If you didn’t get it from a dealer you might be, out of luck if it breaks. You could be stuck with a product and no way to get a replacement or any help.
Dealing with distributors can be a breath of fresh air. They usually have a line, to the manufacturers, which means if something goes wrong while its still, under warranty you can get help away. No getting stuck in some email loop. Wasting time chatting with a robot just to get an issue fixed.
Shopping local isn’t a feel habit. It can have a real impact, on our communities. When you spend money at businesses it stays in the area. Supports people who live and work nearby. This can lead to some things, like more jobs and a stronger local economy.. Local businesses often have a character that you just won’t find at big chain stores. So what’s the best way to make a difference? Simply put; shop. It’s a change that can add up to make a difference in the place you call home.
Distributors typically go the mile to help out. They’ll give you spec sheets offer advice if you need it or even deliver straight to the jobsite.
When it comes to our inventory we don’t mess around. If you need a model or version of something that’s what you’ll get. No settling, for something that’s “close enough”. We know how important it is to have the thing.
Using wrong parts can really damage your reputation. If you skimp on quality you’re likely to end up dealing with callback after callback. Or worse failing inspections. That’s a headache no one needs.
Big box stores might look like a solution. Lets be honest they’re not exactly designed with your business best interests, at heart. There’s a time and a place for them. When it really counts, investing in quality by shopping local is the way to go. It’s all, about knowing when to take the shortcut and when to put in the effort to get something that truly fits your needs.
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