Saybrook Hardware: A Shopper’s Guide

Why You Should Visit

• Exceptional Customer Service: You’ll consistently encounter friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable staff. Many reviewers highlight the willingness of employees to go above and beyond, offering advice, assisting with project planning, and even expediting repairs (like a screen repair completed overnight). Brian, the manager, is frequently praised for his expertise and assistance with various products, including Weber grills and Toro weedwackers.
• Extensive Product Selection: This store boasts a surprisingly large selection for a local hardware store. You’ll find a wide variety of items, including nuts, bolts, and screws in various materials (steel, brass, stainless steel, marine-grade stainless steel). While lumber isn’t available, it stocks many items comparable to a large home improvement store. The store also offers Benjamin Moore paint, though be aware of potential issues (see below).
• Special Ordering Capabilities: If they don’t have what you need in stock, they are more than happy to special order it for you and have it available within a few days.
• Convenient Location (for locals): If you live in Old Saybrook or the surrounding areas, this is a convenient alternative to a longer trip to a big-box store like Home Depot (a 25-minute drive away for some). The store is conveniently located on Main Street.
• Personalized Assistance: Beyond simply finding items, staff members are adept at helping you identify the right product for your project, even when you are unsure what you need.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Paint Mixing Inconsistency: Be aware that there have been reports of paint mixing errors. One reviewer described receiving paint that was significantly different from the chosen color (pale gray requested, bright white received). The store’s handling of the complaint was not satisfactory in this instance.
• Checkout Experience: While the store’s strengths lie in its product selection and staff expertise, the checkout process has been inconsistent. Some shoppers have reported unfriendly or silent interactions at checkout, lacking basic pleasantries such as a greeting or “thank you.”
• Organization and Pricing: Some reviewers noted organizational issues. Specifically, there was a report of insufficient cashiers, disorganized nuts and bolts displays with missing price labels leading to delays.