5 Products from Lowe’s That Really Aren’t Worth Your Money

If you’ve ever wandered the aisles of Lowe’s with a cart full of optimism, you’re not alone. It’s tempting to grab everything you need for a project in one go, especially when it feels like a one-stop shop for home improvement.

But here’s the thing: not everything on their shelves is worth your hard-earned money. Some items, according to industry pros, are better purchased elsewhere to save you a world of frustration later.

Whether you’re fixing up your roof or tackling the garden, knowing where to invest in quality can make all the difference. Let’s look at a few of the items you should avoid buying from Lowe’s and why experts say it’s worth looking for better options.

Roofing Materials

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, so cutting corners here is a recipe for disaster. While Lowe’s might have budget-friendly shingles, contractors like Jimmy Hertilien from Herts Roofing warn against them. He shares that their limited selection and lower quality can lead to costly issues, like the leaky roof his team had to replace just months after installation. Spending a little more for higher-grade materials from a contractor-focused supplier can save you a massive headache down the road.

Chris Stevenson of 730 South Exteriors also points out that Lowe’s doesn’t carry top-tier brands like Owens Corning, which are known for their durability and long warranties. Instead, they stock “contractor-grade” options that don’t hold up as well. He advises skipping these cheaper options and going with products that meet building codes and last for decades. Pro suppliers often guarantee their materials and workmanship, making the investment well worth it.

Gutters

Gutters might not seem like a big deal, but they’re critical for keeping your home dry and safe from water damage. Hertilien explains that Lowe’s gutters often fall short, describing them as thin, prone to crimping, and prone to leaks. In one instance, a client’s basement flooded within weeks because of faulty store-bought gutters.

Instead of going the DIY route with mass-produced options, Hertilien recommends seamless gutters from a specialized supplier. These are custom-fit to your home, have fewer seams, and are less likely to leak or fail. They’re also better at protecting your walls and foundation from water damage. While the upfront cost may be higher, the durability and peace of mind are worth it.

Landscaping Plants

If you’re planning to spruce up your yard, Lowe’s garden center might seem like a convenient choice. However, landscaper Josh Payne of Classic Landscapes & Gardens advises against it. He’s seen too many cases where disease-ridden plants from big-box stores fail shortly after planting, forcing homeowners to spend even more to replace them.

Payne suggests sourcing plants from local nurseries instead. Not only will they have a better selection, but their plants are often healthier and better suited for your region. Local growers also understand the specific needs of your climate, so their plants are more likely to thrive. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or hiring a crew, investing in high-quality plants will save you time, money, and frustration.

Gardening Tools

When it comes to tools, Lowe’s might work for light yardwork, but Payne recommends looking elsewhere for anything heavy-duty. He notes that their tools tend to break under the pressure of more demanding tasks, making them a poor choice for big landscaping jobs.

For tools that can handle tough projects and last for years, check out specialized suppliers or websites like A.M. Leonard. These retailers focus on professional-grade options that are built to last. While they may cost more upfront, you’ll save money in the long run by not having to constantly replace broken tools.

Mulch

Mulch might seem like a small detail, but using low-quality material can make a big difference in your landscaping’s appearance and health. Sal Musto from SalCorp Landscaping shares that he’s seen mulch from Lowe’s fade and rot within months, leaving gardens looking messy and unkempt by mid-summer.

Instead, Musto recommends sourcing mulch from a reputable nursery or landscaping supplier. Not only will you get better quality, but many places also offer delivery services, saving you the hassle of hauling heavy bags yourself. Plus, investing in premium mulch can keep your garden looking fresh and vibrant all season long.