No matter how big or small your DIY project is, it doesn’t have to break the bank. You can save money on everything from tools to gardening supplies with research and determination.

Many hardware stores have a price match policy. If you find a lower price for a tool elsewhere, they will often match it and lower their rate.

Buy in Bulk

One of the easiest methods to save money is to purchase items in bulk. Not only will you get a better price per unit, but it’ll also save you time by preventing the need to place reorders or drive back and forth to pick up supplies. Mainly during large renovation projects, having the necessary materials in advance will prevent any delays that result from having to wait on a shipment or having to go out and purchase them.

There are some negatives to shopping in bulk, such as storage and upfront fees. But the long list of benefits usually outweighs these.

Purchasing in bulk is easier than you think. Rework your budget to include the items you’ll need in bulk, and then begin shopping regularly. Depending on the amount of products you need to buy, this could mean adding an extra $50 to your monthly budget to make room for it. 

Check for Coupons and Promo Codes

If you’re not checking for coupon codes, you’re leaving free money on the table. Using a coupon code can reduce your spending by 20% or more, whether online or in-store.

Many retailers offer coupon codes as an incentive to sign up for their newsletters. These are typically personalized codes that unlock a discount on one single purchase. The code may look like a long string of numbers or letters, and it will contain a dash (-), underscore (_), or plus sign (+).

Many websites dedicated to coupons and deals allow users to find, share and save on various items. These sites aggregate offers and coupons from various sources, including major online and offline stores. They also feature forums where users can discuss and rate deals. Some of these services include a browser extension and mobile app to alert you of new coupon codes as they become available. These tools can help you save on everything from furniture to garden supplies. Visit https://www.retailmenot.com/view/lowes.com to learn more. 

Look for Manufacturer Rebates

Manufacturer rebates can save you big money on hardware purchases, and you may not even know they exist. 

Hardware stores also offer rebate programs. Taking the time to compare these promotions to those of other retailers can help you score a more significant discount on your next purchase.

Another trick to save at hardware stores is to consider renting equipment you don’t need. Many hardware stores allow you to rent equipment without a credit card, making this option more accessible.

Shop during Sales and Clearance Events

Although they can be pricey, home renovation projects don’t have to be prohibitively expensive. Hardware stores offer various discounts and coupons that can help you save money. In addition, they are focused on customer satisfaction and will do what they can to have your business.

Many retailers host sales and clearance events during the winter and other seasons. This is when they want to unload products that will be less in demand during the warmer months. For example, you may find winter clothing items on sale in January, and TVs are often discounted around Presidents Day.

Check online or in-store ads for coupons and promotions if you’re looking for deals during a specific holiday. Some deals may be limited-time offers, so you must act fast. In addition, you can enjoy exclusive members-only promotions if you’re a member. This lets you get the best prices on everything from tools and outdoor equipment to garden supplies and furniture. It’s a great way to save on the things you need for your next project or everyday life.

Ask for Price Adjustments

If you buy something at one hardware store and see it advertised for a lower price at another, you can ask the original retailer to refund you the difference. It’s called “Price Adjustment,” and it’s a service that many stores offer.

While most national retailers have a price adjustment policy, smaller, locally-owned stores may be more willing to do so if they know customers value their business. She recommends asking if a store has this policy before making a purchase.

Some stores only honor price adjustments within a specific time frame, such as 30 days after your purchase date. Others will only honor them for identical products.

Most hardware stores only price match with local competitors, but there are exceptions to this rule. For instance, some stores will honor competitors’ pricing on general merchandise such as appliances and cabinets. This is to avoid the practice known as showrooming, which involves customers gathering information on items in a store and then buying them online for a lower cost.