Do it yourself (DIY) retailers provide customers with tools and supplies to complete projects at home on their own. Rather than hiring someone to complete a task, the consumer can purchase the necessary supplies and plans and perform the work personally. The concept of DIY originated in reference to home improvement activities like wiring and plumbing, but can also be extended to other projects that have historically required the services of a professional.
At a retailer who focuses on DIY products and services, customers may find a range of options available. Some DIY retailers sell kits, books, videos, and other references that can be helpful before beginning to work on the project. They may also host demonstrations and classes to provide customers with critical skills. This aspect of their services ensures that customers have the information they need to initiate and complete projects safely.
In addition, DIY retailers sell supplies their customers may need. These can include building materials and tools. Someone preparing to remodel a bathroom, for instance, might need a range of equipment from a continuity tester for wiring outlets to wrenches for removing old plumbing. Some DIY retailers provide complete kits, like cabinets with all the fasteners, along with references to help people select the right tools for the job.
Some offer customer services like cutting supplies to size, which can reduce expenses associated with buying large saws and other heavy equipment for projects. At these DIY retailers, a staff member may perform cuts for free on construction supplies as a courtesy, or people may need to pay extra for this service. Some also hire staff members out to assist with projects, for people who find that they need some help. While this may not fall strictly within the DIY ethos, it can be a valued service.
The displays at DIY retailers may include model rooms or even entire homes. These can inspire customers with design ideas and show them the range of products available from the company. The show room may include a number of sample environments for people to review, with information sheets providing data on the needed supplies and the amount of time people can expect to spend on the project.
Some also provide consulting services like color matching for paints and upholstery. These matching services may include searches for hard to find products, like replacements for missing cabinet handles or drawer pulls. Customers who want to restore a room or match existing hardware and accessories like wallpaper can take advantage of such services to complete the finishing details on their projects.