Rent Before You Buy: Tool Rentals Gain Popularity

Before making a large purchase of power tools, consider renting them first. This allows you to test-drive the product in real-world conditions, away from store aisles and YouTube reviews. You can see how it feels in your hands, its weight after 30 minutes of use, and if it meets your needs.

Big box stores like Home Depot, Lowe's, and Ace Hardware make tool rentals easy. The prices vary based on the tool and rental duration. Some available tools for rent include air conditioners, heaters, carpet cleaners, chippers, stump grinders, drain cleaners, ladders, mini excavators, mowers, moving equipment, painting tools, pressure washers, and tile saws.

Some rentals may require you to be over 18 years old and present a valid form of identification. These stores also offer used tools for sale if you're interested in buying at a lower price. For car projects, AutoZone has a free Loan-A-Tool program that requires a deposit covering the tool's purchase price.

Local home improvement or hardware stores may also offer rentals. Another option is local tool libraries, community-based programs where you pay a small membership fee to borrow tools like books. Some libraries even have tools or equipment available for rent with a library card.