Lowe’s Newington, CT: A Shopper’s Guide

Why You Should Visit

• Excellent Selection in Certain Departments: You’ll find a wide variety of general hardware items, exceeding what’s available at competitors like Home Depot, at least in certain areas. One shopper specifically praised their hardware selection.
• Dedicated Employees: I encountered exceptionally helpful staff in the seasonal department. One employee, Larry, provided outstanding assistance, even loading my purchases (a table and chair set) into my truck.
• Lumber Cutting Services: The store offers lumber cutting services. While one shopper experienced an inaccurate cut, another had a positive experience with a professional and courteous associate who ensured the cut was to their specifications.
• Large Appliances with Assembly & Delivery: You can purchase large appliances like Weber grills with free assembly and delivery included.
• Veteran-Friendly Parking: Lowe’s provides four reserved parking spaces for veterans.
• Working App with Discounts: The Lowe’s app functions effectively, offering a 10% discount.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Inconsistent Customer Service: Be aware that customer service experiences vary widely. While some shoppers encountered helpful staff, many reported significant delays, unhelpful responses, and even profanity from employees. One customer waited 15 minutes for assistance in the lumber department, only to receive a wood cut that was 2 inches shorter than requested.
• Delivery Issues: Delivery services have proven unreliable. I’ve experienced delayed deliveries, damaged goods (35% of paver stones were broken in one instance, and multiple orders arrived in damaged, previously returned boxes), and delivery drivers who rescheduled deliveries without notification. One delivery arrived 1.5 hours outside the scheduled window.
• Return Policy Challenges: Returning items can be time-consuming and frustrating. One shopper experienced a long wait time (over 15 minutes) for a small return, exacerbated by other customers using the return line for lengthy purchases. Returning a full (but slightly dirty) can of paint also resulted in an unpleasant and accusatory interaction.
• Poor Store Organization & Maintenance: The store layout can be disorganized. One shopper noted broken items on the shelves (a broken garbage can) and a lack of essential items (fasteners). The exterior lighting is poor at night, and the store frequently has cars parked in the fire lane.
• Strict Background Check Policies: Lowe’s has a stringent background check policy, potentially rejecting applicants with even minor past misdemeanors, regardless of their time elapsed or lack of serious offenses.
• Unresponsive Management: Complaints regarding damaged goods or poor service often go unaddressed, despite multiple attempts to contact the store.