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Elder’s Ace Hardware

FAQ’s and MRI’s

This booklet contains a list of what we believe to be the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) by our customers and the answers to those questions. It also lists the Most Requested Items (MRI’s) in the store by department. If you are equipped to answer the FAQ’s and know something about the MRI’s and where to locate them, then you are well on your way to helping customers with their most common requests.

Sales Associate

As a major piece of a new sales associate’s orientation to the product at Elder’s, the store’s Training Coordinator will see that you are taken on a detailed “tour” of the store over the course of your first 30 days. This tour will be conducted one department at a time and include reviewing the most frequently asked questions (i.e., FAQs) and answers in each respective department and identifying the top selling items (MRI’s) by department, contained in this booklet.

Cashier

As a major piece of a new cashier’s orientation to the product at Elder’s, the store’s Training Coordinator will see that you are taken on a mini “tour” of the store over the course of your first 30 days. These tours will be conducted one department at a time and include identifying the top selling items (MRI’s) by department, identified in this booklet.

At the conclusion of the “tour” of all departments, sign the checklist that validates the completion of this process. That schedule should be sent to Human Resources at the home office.

Other tools and seminars are available and will be used to further advance your professional development. The most important of these tools is your Training Development Plan. This includes various checklists (e.g., propane, cashiering, and paint mixing), the Ace Orientation Class, online training videos and in-house seminars conducted at an Elder’s location (e.g., Customer Service, Merchandising, Inventory Management, Leadership, pre-Spring, pre-Fall, Plumbing, Electrical). See the Store Training Coordinator or your manager to determine a schedule for completing these courses.

Whereas knowing the MRI’s and the answers to these FAQs will go a long way in preparing you to capably serve our customers, there will be lots of questions that you won’t initially be able to answer. In those cases be sure to find a fellow associate or another resource that can help the customer. We should never guess or unintentionally mislead a customer. We must always work hard to protect the trust and helpfulness that our customers value so dearly.

Again, welcome to Ace! By knowing these FAQs and MRI’s your confidence in helping our customers will surge and you’ll be on your way to becoming an important part of making Elder’s the most helpful place that your customers shop.

Tom Glenn, President

Intro to Eagle Browser

Logging on to Inventory Maintenance (IMU)

o On any terminal open Eagle Browser (Blue House Icon)

o Type in User Name and Password

o Type IMU into the Launch Bar

o Type in Ace Number or Barcode into the SKU field

o Review SKU

o Review QOH

o Review Pricing

o Review and explain Location Codes

Most Requested Items-Department 1

| |Description |Location Code / Notes |

| |Liquid Nails | |

| |Great Stuff | |

| |Caulking & caulking gun | |

| |Glues & adhesives | |

| |Tapes | |

| |Paint Thinner | |

| |Spray Paint | |

| |Kilz Primer | |

| |Paint Trays, Liners | |

| |Paint Brushes | |

| |Paint Roller Covers | |

| |Putty Knives | |

| |Sandpaper | |

| |Drop Cloth | |

| |Spackling/ jt. compound | |

| |Roof Cement | |

| |Water Seal | |

| |Muriatic Acid | |

| |Bleach | |

| |WD-40 | |

Frequently Asked Questions-Department 1

o How much area will one gallon of paint cover?

For most Ace and Benjamin Moore paints, one gallon will cover 400 sq. ft. Check the back of the can for exact coverage.

o Will latex paint cover an oil base paint?

Yes, with proper surface preparation such as cleaning and light sanding.

o What do you use to seal a water spot on a ceiling?

Stain Halt or Kilz or another stain-blocking primer.

o What type of sample do I need for the computer match system?

The sample should be clean, smooth, and opaque and quarter sized.

o What paintbrush do I need for my paint?

Polyester or nylon bristles for latex (i.e., water based paint) and natural bristle for oil-based paint.

Most Requested Items-Department 2

| |Description |Location Code / Notes |

| |Dust Masks | |

| |Safety Goggles | |

| |Hearing Protectors | |

| |Nail Aprons | |

| |Hacksaw | |

| |Utility Knives | |

| |Screwdrivers | |

| |Measuring Tapes | |

| |Drill bits | |

| |Insert Bits (#2), | |

| |Caution Tape & flagging | |

| |Chalk line | |

| |Saw blades | |

| |Chisels | |

| |Files | |

| |Torch Kits & cylinders | |

| |Staple guns & staples | |

Frequently Asked Questions-Department 2

o What type of solder is used for different jobs, i.e. plumbing, electrical, etc.?

Lead-free solder for plumbing. Rosin core solder for electrical. For non-electrical (e.g., automotive accessories like radiators) use acid core solder.

o What type staples fit this gun?

Ask the customer what brand stapler they have. Then ask what length staple would fit his/her particular need. The most common stapler will be an Arrow T-50 and size 5/16 or 3/8 staples will accommodate most household jobs. Ace brand staples list which manufacturers/models that they will fit on the back.

o What is the most popular size Phillips bit?

The #2 Phillips screw bit is the most popular.

o Why do you have different number of teeth on saw blades?

The higher the number of teeth on a blade, the smoother the cut will be.

o What is the warranty on Ace hand tools?

The Ace professional line is guaranteed for life.

Most Requested Items-Department 3

| |Description |Location Code / Notes |

| |Batteries | |

| |Light bulbs | |

| |Electrical wire | |

| |3/8 Romex Connector | |

| |Electrical boxes | |

| |Electrical Tape | |

| |Wire nuts | |

| |Cable Ties | |

| |Duplex Receptacles | |

| |Wall Switches | |

| |Ground Fault Receptacles | |

| |Wall Plates | |

| |Fuses (30A & 60A Non) | |

| |Breakers | |

| |Grounding Adaptors 3/2 | |

| |Power strips | |

| |Extension Cords | |

| |Range & Dryer Cords | |

| |Phone & Coax | |

| |Flashlights | |

| |Conduit | |

Frequently Asked Questions-Department 3

o Are all circuit breakers the same?

No, it is best if you bring in the old breaker and match it up. If you know the name brand of the service box, we may be able to find a suitable breaker.

o Can I use a larger fuse or breaker?

You should not use a larger breaker or fuse since doing so can overload the wiring in the circuit which will produce a fire hazard. Breakers and fuses are matched to the size of the wire in a circuit.

o Do you sell conduit by the foot?

We typically do not sell conduit by the foot although, we are happy to cut it in half for the customer to make it easier to transport. Some stores do sell flexible conduit by the foot.

Most Requested Items-Department 4

| |Description |Location Code / Notes |

| |Air Filters | |

| |Teflon Tape | |

| |PVC Cement | |

| |PVC/CPVC Pipe /Fittings | |

| |Plumber's Putty | |

| |Hose Clamps | |

| |Pipe Strapping | |

| |Copper Tubing & Fittings | |

| |Brass Fittings | |

| |Plastic Tubing | |

| |Pipe Insulation | |

| |Faucet Covers | |

| |Delta seats & springs | |

| |Shut off Valves | |

| |Supply Lines | |

| |Ballcocks & Flappers | |

| |Wax Rings | |

| |Drain cleaners & plungers | |

| |P-traps | |

| |Dryer Vent | |

| |4" Corrugated sewer pipe | |

Frequently Asked Questions-Department 4

o What do you do with a washerless faucet when it leaks?

Washerless faucets have seats in them that have to be replaced.

o How do I unstop my drain?

By using a plunger or drain cleaner. Never use a plunger after using a drain cleaner. For a stopped up toilet, the toilaflex plunger is a great tool.

o What is the best drain cleaner?

Rooto is the strongest with the highest acid content. It should normally only be used in commercial applications. It’s a last resort… use caution and wear goggles! Most other drain openers are bases (the opposite of acids). NEVER MIX ACIDS AND BASES!

o What size p-trap or s- trap do I need?

This can vary but normally 1½” is used on kitchen sinks and 1¼” is used on bathroom sinks.

Department 4-continued

o What is the difference between CPVC and PVC pipe?

PVC is for cold water only. CPVC is for hot or cold. PVC is white in color and CPVC is beige. Similar size PVC and CPVC pipe are actually different sizes. For example, ½ inch PVC is not interchangeable with ½ inch CPVC.

o Do you cut and thread steel pipe?

This varies by store. Stores that do not have a pipe threading machine sell various lengths of pre-cut pipe.

o Do you cut and sell plastic pipe and copper pipe by the foot?

Yes, we sell PVC, CPVC & copper tubing by the foot. We do not sell the 4” corrugated drain pipe or electrical conduit by foot. However, we are always willing to cut these products for a customer so that they can more easily transport it.

o What is the difference between OD and ID sizes of copper tubing?

OD stands for outside diameter. ID stands for inside diameter.

Most Requested Items-Department 5

| |Description |Location Code / Notes |

| |Keys | |

| |Flashing | |

| |Nails | |

| |Rebar Products | |

| |Joist Hanger, Plywood Clips | |

| |Lumber Products | |

| |Roofing Felt | |

| |Chain, Cable & Cable Clamp | |

| |Furniture Tips | |

| |Shelving Brackets | |

| |Builders Hardware | |

| |Dowels | |

| |Picture Hangers | |

| |Wood Shims | |

| |Signs, Numbers & Letters | |

| |Door locks & padlocks | |

| |Window screening | |

| |Plastic Sheeting | |

| |Concrete Bag Products | |

| |Concrete Block | |

Frequently Asked Questions-Department 5

o How do you hang items on drywall?

To hang items on drywall you must first determine the weight of the object and the thickness of the wall. Heavy items such as mirrors, bookcases, etc. need to be anchored into the studs in the wall. Moderate to light weight items can be attached by hollow wall anchors which range from simple plastic anchors to toggle bolts. See the chart on the Hillman display. It shows samples and how to use them.

o What size drill bit do I need for my anchor?

The type or size of drill bit to use for the anchor depends on the anchor. The drill size may be found on the anchor, the package that the anchor came in, or on the Hillman drawer.

o How many bags of concrete mix do I need to set a mailbox post?

One to two 80 lb. bags

Most Requested Items-Department 6

|Description |Location Code / Notes |

|Trash Bags | |

|Stove reflector bowls | |

|Canning jars | |

|Fans & Heaters | |

|Suction cups | |

|3M Safety Tread | |

|Vinyl/Rubber Gloves | |

|Thermometers | |

|Rain Gauges | |

Most Requested Items-Department 8

|Description of item(s) |Location Code / Notes |

|Bird Seed | |

|Cedar Shavings | |

|Windshield Washer Fluid | |

|Motor Oils | |

|Hand Cleaners | |

|Antifreeze | |

|J-B Weld | |

|Threadlock | |

|Bungee Cords | |

|Fire Extinguishers | |

|Propane cylinders | |

|Camping fuels | |

|Pool Chemicals | |

Most Requested Items-Department 7

|Description |Location Code / Notes |

|Wasp and Hornet Spray | |

|Insecticides | |

|Rodent traps & bait | |

|Vegetation Killers | |

|Garden Sprayers | |

|Potting Soils | |

|Lawn Fertilizers | |

|Lime | |

|Plant food | |

|Grass Seed | |

|Water Hoses & accessories | |

|Gloves | |

|Trimmer Line | |

|2-cycle Oil | |

|Gas Cans | |

|Spark Plugs | |

|Twine, Rope | |

|Tomato Cages | |

|Landscape Fabric | |

|Tarps | |

|Wheat Straw, Pine Straw | |

|Soils, Mulches | |

Frequently Asked Questions-Department 7

o When is the best time to plant grass seed?

Typically in our area late September through October is ideal. Late March through April is also a good time. Although weather is unpredictable and a freeze will harm young grass. Also newly seeded areas should be watered daily.

o How much area does a bale of straw cover?

500 square feet per bale (i.e., 80 bales per acre).

o What is the correct fertilizer for sowing grass seed?

“Starter” fertilizer is ideal. 6-12-12 is also acceptable.

Department 7-continued

o How much lime should you use on your lawn?

The only true way to know is to perform a soil test. The Agriculture Extension Service can help with this. As a general rule, because southern lawns are very acidic, our customers should apply about 40 pounds of lime per 1,000 square feet of lawn.

o How much grass seed do I need?

Fescues are recommended to be applied at a rate of 10 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Bermuda grass is recommended to be applied at a rate of one pound per 1,000 square feet (Notice that Bermuda seeds are tiny compared to fescue seeds thus partially accounting for the need for fewer pounds.).

o What kind of string trimmer line do I need?

Read the string trimmer’s manual to be certain, but smaller line (usually .65) is used for electric models. Gas models generally require a minimum size of .80 and larger gas models will use .95 or larger. While commercial line is more expensive, it will last much longer, thus making it a better value.

o What size spark plug do I need for my mower?

You should refer to a manufacturer recommendation. However, the J19LM is the most common for lawn mowers and the CJ8 is the most common for trimmers and chain saws.

o What is the guarantee on power equipment?

See warranty information.

o Who does our service work?

We have stores with certified mechanics. Check with a member of management for specifics.

o What is the best advice to give a customer who will be using a chemical product?

Always read the label and directions.

Miscellaneous Frequently Asked Questions

o Do you deliver?

We do not offer an official delivery service. Although, most stores occasionally provide delivery on large items such as lawn tractors and gas grills. There are also occasions when we deliver items due to special customer circumstances. Please discuss your store’s delivery policy with the store manager.

o What time do you open or close?

Please refer to your store’s hours of business.

o What is the price of broken bags?

The general rule of thumb is ½ price on bags of soils, mulches, concretes that are significantly broken. On more expensive product such as fertilizer, grass seed and feed you should consult with a member of management, particularly if the tear or damage is minimal.

o What is the price of crooked lumber and landscape timbers?

The general rule of thumb is ½ price on significant damage. Consult with member of management on large ticket items and questionable items.

o Do you match prices?

We do not promote a “price match” policy as some retailers, but we will typically match a competitor’s price as long as we can verify that product is the same manufacturer number. Consult with a member of management.

Other Frequent Questions-Department 1

What type of paint should I use in my kitchen?

High-gloss paints provide a tough, washable finish that also resists water and grease. However, the gloss will make surface imperfections more noticeable, so you will have to work a little harder to ensure a good finish. A semi-gloss provides a little less durability but is a little easier to work with. Also, there are new products that are flat that are stain resistant. Ben Moore makes a Matte line that is formulated using a ceramic technology.

What is an eggshell or satin finish?

It’s a paint that has a little more sheen than a flat paint, which makes it easier to clean and gives it a more lustrous appearance. It can be used in place of semi-gloss to provide a less shiny finish. Some manufacturers market a satin finish, which is usually a little shinier than an eggshell but less shiny than a semi-gloss.

What is primer and do I really need it?

Primer seals the surface and provides grip for paint to stick to. Yes, it is needed in most cases especially on a surface that has never been sealed or painted.

Can I paint over wallpaper?

We don’t recommend it. But, you can if the surface is in sound condition. You may have to prime dark colors.

If a customer asks which paint roller cover should he/she use what questions should you ask? Based on the answers what should you recommend?

What type surface are you painting? For walls use smooth or semi-smooth (1/4” or 3/8” nap). For ceilings use rough or semi-rough (1/2” to 1”). For block use a rough roller (minimum ¾”, preferably 1”).

How do I know which caulk or sealant to recommend?

This depends on a variety of factors:

Latex caulks generally last 5-35 years and can be painted.

Pure silicone caulks last the longest (50+years) but cannot be painted.

-Where will the sealant be applied?

-What type of surfaces will be bonded or caulked?

-How much stress or movement will the joint be subjected to?

-What other performance requirements will it need to meet?

-Will it be painted?

-See the recommended application on the caulk tube.

Other Frequent Questions-Department 2

What is the difference between mapp and propane gas?

Propane is for normal use like sweating copper, but mapp gas burns hotter for extra heavy use.

What hammer do you recommend for general use around the house?

A 16 ounce claw hammer

What type of pliers should I buy for general use?

A 10-inch set of adjustable pliers may look big, but they are a good choice for general, all-around use.

Other Frequent Questions-Department 3

What is the difference in cool white and daylight fluorescent bulbs?

Cool white bulbs will produce a softer light. Daylight bulbs will produce light similar to sunlight giving items a more accurate color. When placed side-by-side cool white bulbs look yellow and daylight bulbs look almost blue. Daylight bulbs also produce more lumens (light output).

What is the difference between spot and flood bulbs?

Spotlight bulbs will produce a more focused, more intense light pattern. Floodlight bulbs will have a wide spread, less focused light pattern.

What are the benefits of halogen bulbs?

Halogen light bulbs will produce a whiter and brighter light than a comparable incandescent light bulb. However, they burn at much higher temperatures than other bulbs, so you should ensure that it stays away from draperies, bedding, clothing, & hanging plants. Also, you should not touch these bulbs with your fingers. If you do, be sure and wipe them off with rubbing alcohol before turning them on as the oil from your fingers can cause the bulb to overheat and burn out prematurely.

What are the benefits of CFL and LED bulbs?

Energy savings and generally longer life.

What size of wire do I need for lights and receptacles?

12/2 with ground is the standard for 110 volt circuits up to 20 amps.14/2 w/g is acceptable for lighting circuits.

Do they make an adapter on 220v for L shape to straight prong? What do you do when changing a 3-prong dryer or range cord to a 4-prong?

No adapters are made. When changing out cords you will have an extra ground wire which should be connected to the frame of the appliance. You may use a range cord for a dryer but you cannot use a dryer cord for a range due to the size of the wire and the amperage load.

What is a 3-way switch and how do you install it?

A 3-way switch always works with another switch and is used to control the same light or outlet. They are commonly used at the top and bottom of stairs or at opposite ends of a room. Sometimes manufacturer’s instructions on a 3-way switch card or package will show a diagram of a properly wired 3-way switch. Or, most stores sell the book, “WIRING For the Do It Yourselfer,” or a similar book. This is a good resource for this and other basic questions.

What is the difference in time delay and non-time delay fuses?

Time delay fuses should be used on a circuit which has a motor shutting on or off (e.g., heating or air conditioning unit, air compressor, water heater, well pump). Non time delays are OK for circuits such as lighting. Time delay fuses are generally indicated with a different looking end.

I am installing a ceiling fan; do I need a special electrical box?

Yes, special saddle boxes are designed for hanging heavy fixtures up to about 50 pounds. Since a ceiling fan moves, these boxes are good for up to a 35 pound ceiling fan.

How can I test wires to see if they are hot?

You should buy an electrical tester and refer to instructions for proper usage.

Other Frequent Questions-Department 4

Why does my toilet run all the time?

Either the flapper or the ballcock (fill valve) is worn out. Intermittent running generally indicates a bad flapper while constant running indicates a bad ballcock.

How do I repair my Fluidmaster ballcock?

On the 400A model (black and gray colored), the top twists off and there is a washer that is easy to replace. Be sure to raise the gray arm before twisting.

How do you flare a pipe?

By using a flaring tool. This service is somewhat awkward and takes practice to master.

Can you use galvanized pipe for natural gas?

Yes, galvanized pipe meets federal code. In years past, only black was allowed.

Do you have to use pipe cleaner and primer before using PVC cement?

These are applied to a pipe and fitting before applying the solvent weld glue to ensure a strong bond. Their use is always a good idea, especially if it is for a water supply line.

Do I need thread tape or pipe compound on galvanized fittings?

Yes. Teflon thread tape is the easiest product to work with.

How do I fix copper pipe without sweating it?

Use compression fittings. Can be used on both soft and hard copper.

What is the difference in foam core and schedule 40 PVC?

Foam core pipe is rated for drain, waste, and vent (i.e., DWV) only where there is no pressure. Schedule 40 is rated for pressure.

My hot water is cold. What should I do to fix it?

Check the breaker. If it is on, most likely you’ll have to replace the elements and/or thermostat(s).

Are all electric hot water heater elements the same?

No, there are three types: screw in, bolt in, and clamp in. The screw in type is by far the most common. All three types have different lengths, wattages, and voltages. The specifications are generally stamped on the exposed end of the element.

Other Frequent Questions-Department 5

What is the difference in a single cylinder and double cylinder deadbolt?

A single cylinder deadbolt is a lock that only has a keyed entry on the outside. You use it when you have no glass panels in the door or side windows. A double cylinder model unlocks with a key from both inside and outside. In a door with glass panels, it prevents a burglar from reaching through a broken pane to unlock the door. But because it inhibits fast emergency exits, it may be restricted by some local codes.

Will any lock fit my door?

Most locks come in two sizes: 2-3/8” or 2-3/4” backsets. This is the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole. The customer will need to know which one they need. Most locks now come with adjustable backsets that will work for either. 2-3/8” is the most common.

Should I use fiberglass or aluminum screening?

Aluminum screening is more durable and also fireproof. However, fiberglass screen will not dent and is easier to work with.

Do you have a hinge that will fit my door?

It is best if the customer brings in their old hinge. As a general rule, exterior doors use 4” hinges with four holes on each side. Interior doors normally have 3-1/2” hinges with three holes on each side.

What does the working load and tensile strength of rope or chain mean?

Tensile strength is the amount of force required to break the material during a pull. Working load is the amount of work or weight that the rope or chain can safely handle during extended use. For liability reasons, the chain, cable, and rope we carry are not rated for any situation where lives may be at risk.

What is the difference in masonry and concrete nails?

There are two types of masonry nails. Both are made of hardened steel and made to attach wood frames or strips to concrete or block. They are meant to drive 7/8 to 1½” into masonry block or mortar joints and ¾ to 1 inch into concrete. These nails can shatter tile, stone, and some brick. The “flat head” or regular looking masonry nail is usually fluted for more grip and can penetrate harder material than the flat unfluted cut nail. Drill a pilot hole in hard cured concrete and drive with a small sledge hammer.

What is the difference in coated, common, and galvanized nails?

A common nail is for general purpose work and used in heavy construction and rough work. It has a large head that won’t pull through your material. Common nails will rust.

A coated nail is a smaller diameter nail to prevent splitting of your material. There is a glue coating that is on the nail. As the nail is driven into the material the friction of the nail against the material causes the glue to soften.

When it is fully in the material it cools and sticks making the nail harder to pull out and to keep the nail from backing out with changes in the weather or heat and cold. These nails will rust. They also have a smaller head.

Galvanized nails are usually common nails with a rough hot dipped coating or electro galvanized coating to prevent rust.

Roofing nails and siding nails along with spiral shank deck nails are galvanized. These are the most requested galvanized nails. They do not rust under normal conditions.

What is AC, BC, and CD plywood?

Plywood is rated using a letter code for the face side (exposed to be painted or finished) and the back veneer (the side that will be hidden after the work or job is complete). There can be many combinations of grades: AC, BC, CD, AD, and etc. “A” is the best grade with no knots and few repairs. The “B” grade means there is a solid surface with football-shaped repair plugs and tight knots permitted. The “C” grade allows small knots, knot holes, splits within limits, and patches enough to make a full panel. The “D” grade will have large knots and knot holes with some splits. Plywood can be made with interior or exterior adhesive.

How much Quikrete mix do I need?

Each store should have a chart or calculator at the service desk and/or register area that can answer this question. See the Store Manager or a Team Leader on instructions on how to use and where they are located in the store.

In general, to calculate the amount of concrete mix needed, calculate the cubic feet of concrete required (length (in feet) times width (in feet) times thickness (in feet)). Then if using 80# concrete, multiply the cubic feet needed by 1.5. For example, a concrete pad six feet wide by 10 feet long and 4 inches thick would need 20 cubic feet of concrete (6x10x1/3=20). That job would take 30 bags of 80 lb. concrete (20 x 1½).

What is the difference in Portland cement and Signal masonry cement?

Portland cement comes in a 47 or 94 lb. bag and is the key ingredient of concrete. When mixed with sand and gravel and water it forms concrete. Concrete is used to pour slabs, footings, driveways, sidewalks, etc. Quikrete concrete mix has the Portland cement, sand, and gravel already mixed together, so you just add water.

Signal Mountain masonry cement comes in a 70 lb. bag and when mixed with sand and water produces mortar, the bonding material used to hold bricks and other masonry units together. Quikrete mortar mix contains the masonry cement and sand: you just add water.

What is the difference in the Quikrete products, concrete mix, mortar mix, and sand mix?

Concrete mix is for setting posts or pouring a slab of 4” thickness or more. Mortar mix is used as the bonding agent when laying blocks or bricks or stones. Sand mix is used as a topping over rough pours or scaled concrete slabs. It is used for thicknesses of 2 inches or less.

What are the different types of screws and bolts?

Although we carry many, many types of screws, the bulk of our offering is made up of machine, wood, and sheet metal screws. Machine screws are under ¼ inch in diameter and are designed to fasten to a nut. Wood screws are tapered and pointed at the tip with 2/3 of the length of the shaft being threaded. Sheet metal screws have pointed tips, are fully threaded, and are designed to fasten metal to metal and rarely exceed 3 inches in length. Other features of screws can vary such as the head design (flat, oval, round, etc.) and the material type (brass, zinc, stainless steel, aluminum, etc.).

The three primary bolt designs we stock are lag bolts, carriage bolts, and hex (machine) bolts. As a general rule, bolts are bigger fasteners than screws. Lag bolts have pointed tips and are used for wrenching into wood surfaces or for inserting into lag shields. Carriage bolts have square shoulders under the head that pulls into soft materials such as wood and prevents the bolt from turning while the nut is tightened. Hex or machine bolts are what people normally think of when asking for a bolt.

What does a customer who asks for Visqueen want?

Visqueen is a brand name for plastic sheeting. Ace stocks 100 foot rolls by various widths: 6 mil and 4 mil. Ace also stocks smaller sizes in 25 and 50 foot lengths and widths as narrow as 3 feet.

Other Frequent Questions-Department 7

How often should I fertilize my lawn?

Four to five times per year: use a pre-emergent (i.e. crabgrass preventer) in late winter to early spring. Late spring: apply a fertilizer with a post-emergent herbicide (i.e. Weed and Feed). Summer: apply a regular turf fertilizer or a fertilizer with insect control. Early fall: fertilize again with a turf fertilizer. Late fall: apply a winterizer.

What are the differences between granulated, pelletized and hydrated lime?

Granulated lime is pulverized calcium. It is the least expensive, but is difficult to apply. Hydrated lime is a powder and is used in cooking, for containing smells, and has limited use in the lawn. Although about twice as expensive per pound as granulated lime, pelletized lime comes in a pellet form and is the easiest lime to apply using a spreader. Most customers are best served by using this lime for their lawns… It’s what we should recommend.

When can I use Weed and Feed? I planted my grass three weeks ago.

3-4 weeks before seeding or after 2nd or 3rd mowing of new grass.

What do the numbers in fertilizer stand for, and what does each do?

They represent the percentages of plant nutrients by weight. Just remember, “up, down and all around.” The first number represents the nitrogen, the second represents the phosphorus and the last one represents the potassium. These numbers are always expressed in the same order. Nitrogen is the “up.” It promotes plant growth and greening. Phosphorus is the “down” number. It stimulates cell building and root growth and is particularly beneficial in helping seedlings, flowers and vegetables to develop. Potassium is the “all around” number. It assists plants in forming starches and proteins, this promoting plant hardiness, disease resistance and a tolerance to drought and cold.

What grass seed is best for the sun, for the shade?

Any type of turf fescue is a good all-around grass including being good for the sun. Bermuda is especially good for the sun but should not be used with other grasses. Creeping red fescue is known for being a shade only grass. However, getting grass to grow in continuous shade is always a challenge. There are also blends of seeds available for specific applications (shade, high traffic, etc.).

What is the difference in annual and perennial rye grass?

Annual rye lasts one season (i.e., you plant it in October and it dies when hot weather comes in May or June). Perennial rye lasts more than one season.

How long will it take for grass to come up?

Generally it takes fescue seven to 14 days to begin coming up but extreme heat or a lack of moisture are examples of two conditions that can slow the process.

How many square feet in an acre?

An acre is 210 ft. x 210 ft. or 44,100 square feet.

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