South Bay Hardware — Local services in Redondo Beach

I don't post a lot of reviews, but it would be a complete disservice if I didn't let everyone know about this little gem of a hardware store in the South Bay. I recently moved into the area, and within the first month, I have probably been to Home Depot at least 10 times. I received a flyer in the mail for South Bay Hardware with a list of some of their services, including re-keying all my locks (essential for any new homeowner) at half the cost of any of the local locksmiths. I called the store and spoke to a friendly woman who told me to bring in my locks (11 in total, including my front door). I made sure their key guy would be available when I dropped off, and made a point that I needed them all completed in the same day, so as not to leave my home without any locks by the end of the day. I came in the next day and was greeted by Alex, and another helpful employee, whose name I can't remember). I was told it would take about 2 hours. I dropped off my locks and walked over to the register to pay for an item. By the time I was walking out the door, my front door key was already complete, so I was able to go home and reinstall that lock while I waited for the others to be done (which were complete less than 2 hours later - faster than I expected.

I also needed a new window screen for a bathroom window. I originally went into Home Depot inquiring about this, and they basically told me that I would have to build it myself, and ran off a list of what I had to buy to get it done. I don't know about most people, but this isn't something I was comfortable doing. Knowing me, I'd probably buy the wrong items, measure something wrong, make the wrong cuts, and have to go back and buy more to start all over (how many times have you ever walked into Home Depot to buy something, and then returned to get the right item?). Anyway, while I was at South Bay Hardware, they gave me all the details of the measurements they needed, along with some other helpful information to ensure a proper fit. After all the details were in, I got a phone call from Philip the next day with a few additional questions to clarify some of the measurements and details. In real time, I confirmed some measurements over the phone, and he got some additional clarity on a few remaining questions he had about my order. Long story short, the window screen was a perfect fit, and I couldn't be more appreciative of the extra effort they all went through in order to get it right.

From the initial phone call, to the interactions I had with employees in the store, all the little details mattered, and I felt like I made a personal connection with each person I interacted with. I am simply blown away by the personal nature of their customer service, the approachability of every employee, their friendly attitudes, enthusiasm to help and ask questions, and expertise and guidance. As someone new to the neighborhood, and new to home ownership (and all the responsibilities that inevitably come with it), it was this local hardware store that gave me a warm welcome to the neighborhood, and made me confident in returning, which I will certainly do, and...

Super friendly , well stocked, and organized. Unlike the mega box home building supply chains, the employees here actually come to you and ask if they can help. They keep the shelves stocked, and always ready to answer questions to help keep you and your project moving along. whether it be a plumbing project, electrical project, or painting, I can get in and out of this store faster than it takes me to park and walk into any of the mega chain stores. Just last week, I happen to be near one of the big chains that has orange aprons, and needed some supplies to add another sprinkler zone to my yard. As I was scouring their massive isle, I kept finding that they were out of many of the items I needed. After observing no less than six employees walk right by me, and not say a thing, then observe one of the employees spit on the floor, I walked out with nothing. I then went to South Bay Hardware, and that not only did an employee gladly help me, but they had every single item I needed. I even found, that if you sign up with your name, email, and phone number, you don't even need your receipt for returns or exchanges. I find that to be very convenient. If you value your time, then you must shop at this store, for all your...

This is an awesome gem. On my first visit I was hesitant as independent hardware stores tend to be more expensive than the big box stores and usually have limited selection. Pleasantly surprised to find the item I needed at half the price Home Depot charged. In addition my purchase was better quality and a US made product. Their selection is excellent and prices are lower than at other small hardware stores. There's real customer service. It reminds me of the hardware store in the town I grew up in back east. I plan on shopping here for all my...