People tackle hardware projects

Painting and gardening projects are on the rise as people look to increase their productivity at home during the COVID-19 crisis.

The team at Harvey Home Timber and Hardware has reported a rise in demand of paint, rollers, seedlings, potting mix and garden beds.

As people are encouraged to stay at home, many are taking advantage of the isolation period and turning to renovation projects to pass the time.

Store owners Mick and Michelle Trickett said April had been extremely busy.

“Last week alone we sold 250 litres of paint, we have never sold as much paint as we have in the past few weeks,” Mr Trickett said.

“People are finally getting around to do the things they never had the time to do, like finishing a paint job or fixing things within their homes.”

Mr Trickett also said seedlings and raised garden beds had been in high demand as people looked to grow their own fruit and vegetables.

“Winter vegetables were really popular; things like broccoli, cauliflower and spinach just flew out the door,” he said.

Mr Trickett believed the rise in seedlings also came from parents wanting to keep their children busy while at home.

“A lot of parents were buying potting mix and seedlings for their children to plant vegetables,” he said.

“Gardening is a great way to get children outdoors and in nature, without having to venture further than your backyard.”

He also believed people were initially worried that panic buying would leave them without fresh produce, hence the demand in home gardens.

The hardware store has also started delivering to homes within the area in an attempt to help customers who may feel uncomfortable leaving their homes during the pandemic.

Mr Trickett thanked people for their support and hoped it would continue in the future.

“People need to support local so small businesses like us can stay open for the community, even after the coronavirus pandemic blows over,” he said.

Mr Trickett said the store began its transition into Mitre 10 last week. A grand opening is planned after the pandemic is over.