Why haven't Home Depot, Lowe's and hardware stores closed ...

Summary

As a majority of retailers shut down to curb the spread of coronavirus, hardware stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot remain open.

It might seem unreasonable to think you can pick up a can of paint or flat of pansies right now. But much like grocery stores, hardware stores are deemed essential and permitted to be open.

Last week, Pa. Gov. Tom Wolf ordered all non-life sustaining businesses such as clothing stores, hair and nail salons, theaters and entertainment venues shut down. State police said they would begin enforcing the order at 8 a.m. today.

As a majority of retailers shut down to curb the spread of coronavirus, hardware stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot remain open.

It might seem unreasonable to think you can pick up a can of paint or flat of pansies right now. But much like grocery stores, hardware stores are deemed essential and permitted to be open.

Last week, Pa. Gov. Tom Wolf ordered all non-life sustaining businesses such as clothing stores, hair and nail salons, theaters and entertainment venues shut down. State police said they would begin enforcing the order at 8 a.m. today.

Barrett Owens, an associate at Hornung’s True Value Hardware in Harrisburg, said the store along 29th Street has been busy, and customers have expressed appreciation that the doors remain open.

The store rents items such as sewer augers used to unclog drains and generators, and services machinery including lawn mowers and chain saws, Owens said. It also has contracts with local fire companies, police and municipalities, he said.

Both Home Depot and Lowe’s have shaved back hours for store cleanings and to restock shelves.

“As an essential retailer to the communities we serve, we’re committed to keeping stores open just as we always do during times of crisis and natural disaster," Home Depot said in a message posted on its website.

It went on to say homeowners and businesses rely on the stores for “urgent needs” such as hot water heaters, refrigerators, cleaning supplies, electrical and plumbing repairs and harsh weather items like tarps, propane and batteries.

Its stores close at 6 p.m. until further notice.

Lowe’s President and CEO Marvin Ellison said in a message to customers store "associates have worked around the clock to ensure our customers, first responders and government officials have access to the essential products and services they need to keep their families safe, their businesses running and their communities healthy during this time.”

He said the stores are open to provide everything from refrigeration to cleaning supplies and plumbing fixtures. Lowe’s stores close at 8:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 7 p.m. on Sunday.