Scott’s Lumber: A Shopper’s Guide

Why You Should Visit

• Wide Selection of Building Supplies: You’ll find a comprehensive range of building supplies and household necessities. One shopper noted it as a “very good place to get any building supplies and anything else you could need for a house.”
• In-Stock Inventory: While not always the absolute cheapest, Scott’s often has items in stock, unlike competitors where availability may be an issue. Poplar lumber, for instance, was found to be surprisingly affordable compared to other retailers.
• Reasonably Priced: Many shoppers highlight the reasonable prices of various products.
• Helpful and Knowledgeable Staff (Sometimes): Some staff members, like Kraig Scholten, are described as knowledgeable and readily available to answer questions. Other shoppers mention helpful and friendly staff contributing to great customer service and quality product experiences.
• Convenient Services: They offer services such as delivery, as evidenced by the staff member unloading forklifts on a Saturday morning. One review suggests that the showroom for custom installations is beautiful.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Significant Customer Service Issues: Be aware that responding to customer inquiries and resolving issues can be extremely problematic. One shopper experienced a prolonged, unresolved window repair issue involving multiple unanswered calls and voicemail messages spanning several weeks. This is a recurring theme.
• Order Fulfillment Problems: Expect potential delays and inaccuracies in order fulfillment. One shopper’s Larson storm door order arrived late, initially could not be located in the warehouse, and the shopper was charged a 25% restocking fee ($93 on a $371 door) even after the order was canceled due to the vendor’s poor communication and inability to fulfill a promised delivery date. Another customer experienced incorrect or incomplete parts on an order placed months prior.
• Unreliable Communication: You may experience difficulties reaching Scott’s by phone or receiving timely responses regarding order status or inquiries about products. Multiple reviews cite weeks or even months of unanswered calls and lack of communication, leading to substantial inconvenience and additional expenses.
• Inconsistent Staff Performance: While some staff members provide excellent service, others have been reported as unhelpful, dismissive, even verbally abusive. One reviewer noted a staff member “yelling” and “hanging up” on them.
• Potential for Long Resolution Times: Be prepared for extended periods to resolve problems. Even simple issues can take an unreasonable amount of time to correct.