Village Hardware: A Shopper’s Perspective
Why You Should Visit
- Exceptional Selection: You’ll find a surprisingly wide range of products beyond typical hardware. They carry farm supplies, gifts, kids’ items, pet supplies, livestock items, gardening supplies (seeds, tools, etc.), bulk birdseed (hulled sunflower seed kernels are a popular choice), landscaping materials (including bulk mulch), propane, and even firewood. One shopper even described their selection as “just about anything you might want for your garden and yard.”
- Helpful and Knowledgeable Staff: Many shoppers rave about the friendly and helpful staff, who are often described as knowledgeable and able to assist with various needs, even suggesting alternative solutions or products. They can even advise on things like the most affordable and effective solutions for projects (such as purchasing dirt). One shopper mentioned that the staff even knows about the products they’re looking for, even arbitrary items.
- Convenient Location & Services: The store is considered a convenient option compared to larger chains like Lowe’s or Home Depot, consistently having what shoppers need in stock. They also offer U-Haul rentals with easy pick-up.
- Competitive Pricing: Village Hardware boasts the best prices on bulk birdseed.
- Community Involvement: The store has hosted animal shelter rehoming events in the past, showcasing a commitment to the local community.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The store has a calm and friendly resident dog, and the overall atmosphere is described as positive. A great place for families and friends!
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
- Delivery Issues: Be aware that delivery services have limitations. Topsoil and mulch are only delivered in 2-yard quantities, with no 1-yard option available, even if you pay extra. Delivery days are subject to change, and there are reports of poor quality delivered materials along with a difficult process of payment and scheduling.
- Customer Service Inconsistencies: While many praise the helpful staff, some shoppers have reported negative experiences with specific employees, citing rudeness, disrespect, and yelling at customers. One employee named Sam was specifically mentioned for negative interactions.
- Wood Quality Concerns: A shopper reported receiving a cord of wood with excessive dirt and a significant amount of fire starters/kiln wasted because of the wood quality; buyer beware!
- Curbside Pickup Reliability: Ordering ahead via phone for curbside pick-up resulted in an unanswered call, which may pose a problem for some customers.
- Safety Concerns (Note: This is only based on a singular observation): One shopper noted that store clerks and helpers were not wearing masks or gloves, potentially a concern for some customers during specific times.