Strosnider’s Ace Hardware Shopping Guide

Strosnider’s Ace Hardware: A Shopper’s Guide

Why You Should Visit

Exceptional Customer Service: You’ll find incredibly helpful and knowledgeable staff throughout the store. Employees readily assist with finding items (paint, brushes, door stoppers, shelf paper, adaptors for eyewash stations), offer expert advice (plumbing, electrical), and even go the extra mile, like personally escorting you to your car with heavy purchases. The staff’s willingness to help and their expertise are truly remarkable. Expect a refreshing contrast to the impersonal service at larger home improvement stores.
Extensive Product Selection: The store boasts a wide array of items across numerous categories. Beyond standard hardware, you’ll find toys, puzzles, dog beds, vacuum cleaners, greeting cards, and candy. They also carry hard-to-find parts and unique hardware not stocked by big box competitors. The aisles are well-stocked and fun to browse.
Convenient Location and Improved Store Design: Strosnider’s is described as a “true gem of Kensington.” The recent renovation has created a breathtaking, clean, and organized space, with improved handicap accessibility and streamlined checkout. The layout includes clever shelving solutions maximizing space.
Above and Beyond Service: I’ve personally witnessed the store going above and beyond to resolve customer issues. One instance involved a manager working directly with Ace Hardware to accept a returned lawnmower despite potential losses, prioritizing customer trust and satisfaction.

Return Policy: Be aware that the store’s return policy may be inflexible. While the staff is friendly and helpful, there’s a strict 30-day return period, and they may not offer compromises or store credit even if the return is outside this timeframe due to circumstances beyond the customer’s control (e.g., damaged packaging on an item). For expensive purchases, especially, consider this potential drawback.
Pricing: While the selection and service are excellent, prices are not always the most competitive.
Managerial Inconsistency: One review cited a negative experience with the store manager, Tripp. This suggests potential inconsistencies in customer service experiences depending on the individual staff member involved.