Petersen's Hardware — Local services in South Windsor

I've been making an effort to patronize local stores since the pandemic started. I've always known their prices are slightly higher than the big box stores, but it's ABSOLUTELY worth it considering the service you receive and time you save. I've visited about 3x in the past 2 weeks. Twice for paint which was mixed quickly (no waiting). Today I needed some replacement screws. The staff there quickly found the items I needed. If you've ever looked for a specific size bolt or screw, you know they are often mixed together, some in the correct places, with many in the wrong place. Their screw and bolt selection is IMPECCABLY well organized allowing us to find the correct parts quickly. A+ for the staff...

I support local businesses and have been giving them a lot of leeway during COVID, but I am fed up with this store. BACKGROUND: I waited a month for a $300 order that the warehouse (not them) couldn’t find, no big deal. The warehouse finally delivered the complete wrong kind of soil (clearly marked for flowers and not vegetables) and they didn’t notice, eh, understandable, even though it irreconcilably ruined all of my gardening plans. I walk into the store today to get a few essentials - EVERY EMPLOYEE MASKLESS. ALL FIVE. Not remotely or even tenderly enforcing customer mask wearing either. I ask why? “We don’t believe in that”. Don’t care about my...

I have Home Depot, Lowes, Sears and Harbor Freight with in 10-15 minute drive along with Peterson's Hardware Store. I go here first always. The help is met at the front door when I come in. They have an enormous amount of inventory in this small store. Tools I would have never thought they would have are in stock and specific odd hardware I can only find at Peterson's. This place is a gold mine for me and other DIY people with employees that have a wealth of knowledge to share. I love helping out this local store and so does the town. Maybe that's why they are still here amongst all the heavy hitters, they get it right the first time....