Every tool and hardware store is a bit different, but which ones carry the best products and offer the best customer service?

READ MORE: S’mores anyone? This is the Most Popular DIY Project in Indiana

Earlier this spring, my wife and I decided to buy a "fixer-upper" when we moved back to Indiana to start our new jobs. We had a very short time to find a new home, and the status of the housing market offered no help in the process. Faced with high interest rates and home prices, we finally settled on a small brick home that we knew would need some TLC.

Over the course of a few short months, my wife, my in-laws, and I all worked together to get the house out of the 1970s and into the 21st century. We installed all new appliances, hung new interior doors, remodeled the kitchen, installed a new HVAC unit and main water line, and had a massive amount of landscaping done. We also painted the trim, which is something I hope I never have to do again. It was a ton of work.

During that time, I shopped at an assortment of hardware stores to find the best prices on lumber, doors, paint, and other tools. Some of my experiences were much better than others, but all in all, I got everything I needed rather quickly, so I can't complain. I've ranked all of the stores I dealt with for this renovation and other home projects below. Take a look and see if you agree with my ranking.

WKDQ-FM logo
Get our free mobile app

The Most Popular Home Improvement Stores in the Tri-State Area Ranked

I've dealt with a lot of hardware stores as a homeowner. The following ranking is based on my own experience with the respective stores' offerings, prices, and customer service.

Gallery Credit: Jake Foster

See the Cast of 'Home Improvement' Then vs. Now

Check Out These DIY Backyard Guest Houses On Amazon

Amazon sells DIY backyard guest houses that can be delivered right to your doorstep. These kits come in several styles and sizes that can be used for a variety of things.

Gallery Credit: Travis Sams

More From WKDQ-FM