Look for building hardware at your favorite home improvement store

Many hardware and home improvement stores offer both home improvement and industrial hardware. Some stores provide websites where you can compare products and prices and purchase what you need online.

I recommend: View a large selection of power tools, hammers and mechanic supplies at Sears. Home Depot also provides an online version of their store where you can purchase building hardware. Aubuchon Hardware supplies building hardware from attic ladders to skylights and now hosts an online store.

Find specialty products at online hardware stores

If your business requires careful attention to detail, look for a specialty store that offers a wider variety of similar, but specially designed, products. Many sell to small businesses while others offer products to businesses that act as distributors.

I recommend: Simpson Strong Tie offers wood connectors for use in construction. Its website includes detailed application drawings to help you attach this construction hardware correctly. Boat builders or store owners can find wholesale pricing for stainless steel and marine-grade fasteners from deck screws to u-bolts at Marsh Fasteners. Family-owned Swisco offers replacement parts for closets, windows, cabinets and more. Visit Knobs and Hardware for everything from door hinges to doorbells.

Learn about the latest hardware and how to use it from professional associations

Professional associations help you improve your business by offering information about current hardware and equipment trends and by providing guidelines on how to use building hardware and other tools. They also offer hardware suppliers a place to get the word out to industry professionals about new or certified products. In addition, they offer advice on safety and proper installation methods for industry-relevant hardware.

I recommend: The Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry provides a product showcase for hardware suppliers to present building hardware to contractors. The Air Movement and Control Association International Inc. allows you to seek certification for your air system components and lists the hardware on their website so industry professionals can find it. The American Society of Plumbing Engineers sells manuals that describe how to properly install plumbing hardware such as roofing drainage systems.