Finkles Hardware Shopping Guide

Finkles Hardware: A Shopper’s Guide

Why You Should Visit

Unmatched Expertise and Service: You’ll find incredibly knowledgeable staff who go above and beyond to assist with even the most complex problems. One shopper received ingenious help with a clawfoot tub faucet issue, and another had a plumbing problem solved by Rachel’s research. Expect detailed explanations and patient assistance. Dave, for instance, provided excellent help with a hot water heater problem.
Extensive Inventory, Including Hard-to-Find Items: The store boasts a massive inventory, with items ranging from common household goods to unusual, hard-to-source parts and tools. You’ll find steel (various gauges), plumbing supplies, and even unique vent covers (like great blue heron designs). They often carry items unavailable at larger chains like Home Depot and Lowe’s. The selection also includes “odd old stuff” that is hard to find elsewhere.
Personalized Experience: Finkles offers a unique, personalized shopping experience. Long-time customers report the owners knowing them and their families by name. The counter service system, while possibly leading to waits, ultimately contributes to the personalized attention received.
Community Staple: This store is clearly a beloved community institution, valued for its independent nature and resilience in the face of large corporate chains.
Convenient Curbside Pickup: Since COVID, they now offer curbside pickup, making it easy to get what you need without going into the store.

Potential for Long Waits: Weekday and Saturday mornings can be very busy with tradesmen, leading to potential wait times at the counter.
Pricing Discrepancies and Communication Issues: Be aware that there may be inconsistencies between quoted prices and final charges. In one instance, a substitution was made without prior notification, resulting in a higher-than-expected cost and poorly cut steel.
Inconsistent Customer Service: While many praise the exceptional service, at least one shopper reported a negative interaction with staff, describing condescending and insulting treatment due to perceived language barriers.
Pricing for Unique Items: While a unique vent cover was found, the pricing of such rare items might seem subjective and lacks transparency.
Online Flower Orders: Although flowers are available online, the photos of bouquets may not accurately reflect what is delivered, leading to possible disappointment.