5th Ave Lumber Shopping Guide: An Informed Visitor’s Perspective

Why You Should Visit

• Exceptional Lumber Selection: You’ll find the best stock lumber in Columbus and the surrounding areas, as noted by multiple shoppers. This includes a wide variety of woods, perfect for large projects and contractors.
• Fast Turnaround on Custom Orders: If you need custom products, the location offers the quickest turnaround time I’ve experienced.
• Competitive Pricing (with caveats): While some experienced issues with pricing discrepancies, others found pricing to be cheaper on deliveries (Circleville example) than big box stores like Home Depot.
• Knowledgeable Staff (certain individuals): Jan is highly recommended for his expertise in lumber and willingness to assist customers, even going the extra mile to cut samples. Jim is also mentioned favorably for his guidance on TimberTech decking material and other projects.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Inconsistent Customer Service: Be aware that the in-store staff can be blunt, unfriendly, and unhelpful. Many shoppers describe a lack of greeting or assistance, with some staff members seemingly unconcerned about helping customers. Several reports mention unhelpful or even rude interactions with staff.
• Slow Yard Service: Getting assistance loading materials in the lumber yard can be exceptionally slow. Expect to wait and potentially search for help yourself.
• Potential for Pricing Errors: There are accounts of inaccurate pricing, both on initial quotes and at the register, leading to unexpected costs.
• Limited Selection of Basic Tools and Accessories: While the store specializes in lumber, finding basic items like tape measures can be challenging. The pricing of these items ($18 for a tape measure) is also notably high. Expect little to no assistance finding basic supplies.
• No Returns on Certain Items: Returning items, even immediately after purchase if defective, may not be possible.
• Material Quality Concerns: Delivered lumber, particularly deck boards, may be damaged (nicked or crooked). Expect to inspect materials carefully upon delivery or hand-pick items in-store.
• Lack of price labeling on many items: Some items may not have visible pricing, making shopping difficult and frustrating.
• Potential for Misguidance on Project Needs: Although some staff offer excellent guidance, there are also instances of staff recommending unnecessary items, resulting in higher-than-expected costs.