St. Paul Hardware Store Shopping Guide
Why You Should Visit
- Extensive Inventory: You’ll find an amazing selection of items, covering general equipment, planting supplies, housewares, hardware, screws, and even specialized parts like those for a 90-year-old faucet. They often have exactly what you need, even for unique projects. I was able to find wall hangers, toilet repair parts, and replacement hardware for a desk, for example.
- Helpful Staff: The staff are frequently praised for their helpfulness and willingness to assist with projects. They’ve gone above and beyond, offering demonstrations (latch straps), helping tap bad threads on furniture, and even assisting in the pouring rain. Many shoppers describe the staff as some of the most helpful they’ve encountered.
- Convenient Location: The store boasts a convenient location with parking nearby, making a trip hassle-free. The proximity to Macalester University is also noted.
- Key Cutting and Glass Cutting Services: The store offers key cutting and glass cutting services, and these services consistently receive positive feedback for their quality.
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
- Inconsistent Staff: Be aware that staff helpfulness can vary. While many experiences are positive, some shoppers report difficulty getting help or finding staff who are knowledgeable about specific items. This inconsistent service makes me question their training and pay structure.
- Quality Control Issues: The store’s quality control regarding their products seems questionable. I’ve personally experienced mislabeled items; “terra cotta” pots that were actually painted concrete and “pure copper” scouring pads containing iron. Also, I encountered a tube of super glue that was already dry upon purchase.
- Paint Department Challenges: The paint department specifically receives negative reviews. Staff seem unable to easily locate specific Benjamin Moore colors in their system and don’t offer helpful alternatives or solutions.
- Understaffing: The store sometimes appears to be understaffed, which could lead to longer wait times for assistance.
