1. The Home Depot
Multiple locations; homedepot.com
The challenge that comes with a trip to The Home Depot isn’t finding what you need. Rather, it’s trying to avoid the allure of the rows of colorful plants, aisles of sparkling home lights and walls of paint samples while you’re looking for that tool you think you might need for a home repair.
It’s so easy to get distracted by the wide variety of goods and supplies inside the beloved megastore that it might be best to use the many tools they have available to make a plan before you head to the store. First, download The Home Depot’s app onto your phone. Look for the project calculator, which will help you figure out how much of an item you need, whether that’s wallpaper for the bedroom or boxes for a move.
If you want to handle the project yourself, you’ll find guides on the app too. Use the lists section in the app to keep track of what you need and take that on your shopping trip, then switch the app over to store mode so that you can quickly and easily find what you need.
The coolest recent feature to the app, though, is the truck and tool rental feature. If you need large tools, like a chainsaw or pressure washer, you can actually rent those through the app and then pick them up at the store. Additionally, you can rent pickups, vans and moving trucks through Home Depot, too.
— LIz Ohanesian
2. Lowe’s
Multiple locations; lowes.com
For some people, home improvement projects are fun. For others, it’s a headache. Either way, Lowe’s has your back.
If you are interested in learning how to handle DIY projects, sign up for an in-store class. Subjects include painting tricks and how to build your own farmhouse-style table. In addition to the ample supply of home goods and supplies to perk up every space in your home, Lowe’s offers a good amount of services to help you along the way. These range from assembling products and cutting materials for you to full installations.
Last year, Lowe’s launched the Livable Home program to help folks modify their homes for accessibility. You can schedule a virtual home assessment with a Certified Aging in Place Specialist who will help you and your family discern which upgrades need to be made and how Lowe’s can help.
3. Builder’s Surplus
1800 E. Dyer Road, Santa Ana; 949-502-0040; builderssurplus.net
Builder’s Surplus’ 120,000-square foot showroom in Santa Ana is a go-to for kitchen and bathroom projects. Founded in 1969, the family-owned business focuses on overstock and closeout pieces, including factory assembled kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, stainless steel farmhouse sinks, bathtubs, countertops and more.
The inventory is massive, with 40,000 cabinets alone in stock, and a wide array of cabinet, vanity and countertop styles to select. The showroom is open to the general public, so you can head down here whether you’re working with a contractor or doing it yourself.
If you are handling a project solo, make sure to download the measuring guide and get all the necessary information together before you head to Builder’s Surplus so that you can get the best help you need.
