Hardware--Retail

Hardware is a generic word that refers to items, parts, equipment or supplies such as plumbing, carpentry, electrical supplies, fixtures, wires, machine parts, hand tools, paints, cleaning products, garden needs, electrical tools and many more.

A retail hardware store typically sells household hardware supplies. It is also known as a home improvement store since it caters to household needs and home improvement. Some stores have specialty sections such as boating, fishing, gardening, and pet grooming sections. Hardware stores located near areas where boating and fishing are possible will likely have a specialty section for modern communication devices, boat tools and maintenance as well fishing reel and rods, harnesses and bait tank accessories. A hardware store near a national park might also sell camping equipment.

Some stores do not just sell hardware items but also provide services. They may provide repair services and maintenance such as repairs to damaged windows and doors, repair and maintenance of motorized equipment like lawn mowers, even minor plumbing repairs. Larger hardware stores sell building supplies like lumber and materials for roofing and flooring as well. Most big stores typically have everything you may need in building and maintaining your home, and will sometimes offer DIY workshops.