Leblanc’s True Value Hardware: A Shopper’s Guide
Why You Should Visit
- Exceptional Customer Service: You’ll find incredibly friendly and helpful staff who go above and beyond. They’ll assist you with finding specific items, offer creative solutions to your problems (e.g., fixing a lacrosse helmet, providing alternative cost-effective solutions), and even entertain your children with magic tricks. I’ve experienced this firsthand multiple times.
- Personalized Service: The staff knows regular customers by name and fosters a welcoming, family-like atmosphere. It’s a nice change from the impersonal feel of big box stores.
- Expertise and Know-How: The staff is incredibly knowledgeable about their products and can provide helpful advice, even for specialized needs like old steam heat systems or window screen replacement. They helped me find solutions for problems I couldn’t resolve elsewhere.
- Competitive Pricing (in many areas): While some items might be pricier than big box stores, you’ll often find competitive pricing, especially when considering the level of service. I got car keys copied for significantly less than the quote from a dealership (over 60% less!). In addition, they offered fair pricing on ice melt even during a local shortage.
- Convenient Location & Quick Service: The store is conveniently located (although traffic on S. Willow St. can be an issue). Simple tasks like key making can be done very quickly (in and out in 5 minutes in my experience).
- Unique Selection: You’ll find everything from small screws and washers to items for older homes and rental properties, including solutions for steam heat systems. They offer pet screen for window and door replacements – something that is not easily found elsewhere.
- Saturday Perks: Enjoy free popcorn on Saturdays!
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
- Pricing Discrepancies: Be aware that some items, such as chisels, can be significantly more expensive than at big box stores (e.g., $24-27 versus $6-8). You might want to price-compare if cost is your primary concern.
- Limited Selection (Due to Store Size): While they have a decent selection, the store’s smaller size naturally limits its overall inventory compared to larger stores.
