Pini Hardware - Novato, California

Riley F.

The engraving machine is the coolest way to give unique gifts! You can bring things in to be engraved or buy something there (ornaments at Xmas time, Yeti mugs, coasters). Then choose from images and text fonts there or email them a PDF to customize the image. Staff are either smiling and great conversation or looking grumpy and hard to find.

Y. T.

Shout out to local community engaged businesses!

I have to hand it to the Novato Pini Ace and their new store by Harvest Market. They are awesome. Yeah they might be a tad more expensive than the big box store (HD, L, F) but their customer service is outstanding.

Since the pandemic I have become a serious DYIer with just some basic skills decent reasoning. Most weekends when I take on a project, it always requires at least one trip to Ace.

The staff always greet you when you come in and while perusing the isles. It’s like they can read minds that you have no idea what you are doing or looking for.

Every time I have been approached while mentally trying to figure out what I need, the staff patiently listens to what I’m trying to do and what I think I need. Not only have they consistently been able to help me but more often than not, they have been able to suggest better solutions and have saved me money.

For example, I went to buy a new garbage disposal because mine wouldn’t drain even after I took it out and cleared all pipes and openings. Ace staff helped me find correct replacement.

However, after he asked what the problem with my current one was, he suggested I run a cleaner/degreaser down it first before dropping $150+ on a new one.

Well lo and behold, after 4 degreaser packets, it finally cleared out and fixed the problem. So, I ended up only spending about $15. Problem solved and I have extra packets for future clogs.

Alexandria B.

This place has almost everything you need. From furnace filters to tomato starts and house plants. They even have a freezer full of pies for when you want to reward yourself for a job well done

Karen D.

This is a wonderful hardware store with a variety of tools, plants, BBQ supplies, paint and so much more. Always 5 or 6 employees in the aisles to help find what you need.

R8CEHORSE

There are several metrics why Pini is a great place to shop.

Customer Service
Knowledge
Community Involvement
Value

Leading off, their customer service is EXCELLENT. It's like they actually like to be there and their management treats them well. What a concept! Every time I go there, they are happy to help. I actually love shopping here because I love fixing things but the fine folks that work there are happy to help you too.

I have gone there for many different projects ranging from home to auto. Whatever project I'm shopping for there is a knowledgeable associate there ready to help (also see not above willingness to help). Got a busted toilet? many associates know their stuff, have a sagging bumper that require the most obscure piece of hardware ever? Yep, the guys in hardware know whats up.

One of the really cool things (I think) is that they have boy scouts, Girl Scouts, Associate BBQ and other events there to help community groups or to educate the community. A someone that pours a lot of time into community events, I appreciate that. (Buy some girl scout cookies or some popcorn next time lol).

Lastly, there is a value aspect of shopping there that I like. Value is a metric that is tricky to measure. Some measure it by the lowest price found in a large warehouse like store. Ok, that's fair but I like to measure it in going in, getting what I need, getting out QUICKLY and wrapping up my project asap. I also appreciate that they occasionally send out coupons for things (I am NOT a coupon guy).

With all that being said I think PINI is a superior shopping experience and a great way to support a community business.

Enjoy!

Chris C.

There is always staff ready and willing to help find and explain items. Knowledgeable with assistance, it's not always a common thing to find these days in a hardware store. Small town store with often times better selection. Well organized, too.

Josh K.

Amazing selection, there's always a staff member available to help you find what you are looking for. Seriously nice to have a store with lots of people available to help. Don't skip this place, it's awesome! They have a small garden section.

Veronica B.

What has always been a great store with service greatly disappointed today. A recommended deck cleaning product was returned with pictures of a film left on redwood deck. Brian the manager was rude and refused a return. Unbelievable from a long term customer. Will find new hardware store.