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Categories: Nurseries & Gardening, Hardware Stores
Neighborhood: Capitol Hill/SoutheastHuge savings on over 25 great products, on sale after Thanksgiving, and Christmas trees will be in stock before then.
Announced 3 days agoPotomac Ave (Blue, Orange)
Mon-Fri. 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Sat. 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
That's right. The holidays are right around the corner. And we have everything you need for turning your home into a festive wonderland.
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There's not much to not like about this place. I spent every day here when I was first moving into my apartment, and they have always had exactly what I needed.
The staff is awesome and know everything, and I don't think there is a single thing they don't have. It is really cramped though, but thats the nature of urban retail (particularly hardware) I suppose
This is the ideal when it comes to urban retailing. The true antidote to Home Depot! They sell stuff that goes with your house, is metro accessible and the sales staff know their shizzle. For example, you have a screw loose and need one bolt to go with it. You walk into their a-la-carte nuts and bolts section and pick out the exact one you need. You can buy just one, or buy one hundred. You self-label it, head off to the cashier and pay them your 25 cents. Walk out the door, and into the next shop over - Fragers rentals - and rent a margarita machine or punch bowl. Next store over is paints. Garden section too.
The few downsides are that the garden section is way over-priced (then again, I can walk their from the metro and don't have to rent a zipcar), and the paint store didn't carry zero-VOC in stock. Hopefully that will change soon.
Frager's always has what you need. This is an old skool hardware store with a gardening center, paint store, and tool rentals. The place has old faded hardwood floors that creak as you walk over them. But this give the store its character. The isles of the store are super tight...so tight that two people have to walk sideways to get around one another. But this makes sense for a hardware store that needs to use all of its space. The staff are very knowledgeable and lurk around every corner ready to help. Oftentimes, there is a person at the door greeting you and offering to help or direct you to what you need. The staff walk around with walkie talkies so if one person doesn't know where to find something, a quick call out on the radio will get you an answer.
I've bought plants here, had keys made, bought screws (usually odd sizes and european screws), etc. Who needs a home depot when you can go to Frager's!? Yes, you might have to pay a little more than home depot, but at least Frager's will have the product you are looking for. 9 times out of 10 home depot will not have it....and you'll have to deal with incompentent staff.
Frager's kicks @ss!!!
My love-hate with fragers....If you need to find anything unique, this is where you go. You don't go here to get anything cheap. It's a closer drive and I have a lot of specialized needs which get met at Fragers. However, if you're getting something run of the mill or buying in quantity you'll pay through the nose.
I own a historic property in DC and they are fully supplied for repointing including historic mortar and all the tools. I also rent heavy equipment from them and I've never run into a poorly maintained machine.
This is as good of a hardware store as you'll find in DC. The store is absolutely packed with every tool, screw, gardening supply, seed, plant, bathroom accessory, and everything else that you need. There's also an equipment rental componenet as well as a paint store.
The store is a challenge to navigate at times due to the busy nature and incredibly narrow aisles..but that doesnt really matter since the employees are extremely knowledgeable and helpful. It's one of those few places left that have the old-school Capitol Hill character.
Frager's is extremely helpful and great when you need a few items quickly. They truly are wonderful folks... BUT... the markup can be ridiculous. Snow cherry trees at 500% mark up over nursery's w/in 10 miles, and my favorite, I bought a bunch of pegboard at HD for ~$3 a sheet... I was one sheet low and went to frager's - the EXACT same sheet was $18.95. It was so bad that the employee apologized, and yes I got in the car and drove to HD to save the $16.
It's hard to add to what's already here. In my opinion, the thing that makes this place is the staff.
They are universally friendly and more importantly helpful.
You can get nearly every question answered.
My favorite - in the garden section - is Amity. She knows everything and will drop whatever she is doing to help you find the right plant or flower for your yard.
Friendly service, easy to find help, accessible location and they have everything under the sun it seems! What more do you need?
5 Stars, no-brainer, never seen a better hardware store!
Frager's is a neighborhood hardware store, so the prices may be higher than the national chains on certain items. The store is quite cramped, narrow aisles and no real checkout waiting area. But there are services that Frager's offers that I think a lot of folks are unaware of.
Frager's custom cuts glass. I needed a 22 inch circular tabletop, Frager's cut it a day, charged less than $60.
As well as cut keys, they also repair and replace locks. I needed to replace my apartment's deadbolt last Spring, I called Frager's and scheduled an appointment, a locksmith came out, no problem.
The staff knows everything, especially "the plant guy", and they're always friendly. Based on convenience and the principle of patronizing neighborhood stores, I recommend Frager's to anyone on the Hill.
Had what I needed and learned that that was in fact a "rod" not a screw. WHO KNEW? Bravo, sir.
I love you, Fragers. Almost all of the time. If you need something common, like most folks have said, it's often not in stock, or super expensive (get an account, get 10% off). However, if you need help you'll find staff that is way more willing to work with you and figure out how to install, say, a new closet rod in your old house that doesn't have studs. Also, when your dad is in town, he can call them and they'll pull whatever it is he needs to install your dishwasher and put it at the front, charge your account then you can just go pick it up. Awesome.
Well, who on the Hill doesn't love Frager's? They are super helpful without being pushy and they have so much stuff packed into the store. The paint store and rental places are great too.
And if you have a small, well-behaved dog, they're welcome in the store!
I don't own a car in DC and live about a mile from Frager's. Since I moved to Capitol Hill a few months ago, I have been to Frager's many times. In their narrow aisles, the friendly staff have helped me get keys made; find screw drivers, weatherstripping, light switches, bathroom fan motors, mirror magnets, shims, paint, paint brushes, buckets, TV remote controls, and pans for cooking; rent a ladder; and recycle paint. All of this and no need to fight through traffic or find a parking spot.
When we were looking for shims, one of the staff took us into a back part of the store. I am not at all convinced that unaccompanied customers are allowed in this part of the building, but products seem to be displayed everywhere. If this store were a bookshop or library, it would be a real-life version of the book warehouse in Shadow of the Wind or The Library of Babel.
My parents came to visit from the midwest, and my dad commented that the owners of the True Value Hardware store in my hometown would be seriously jealous of the business that Frager's manages to do. Home Depot is only a few miles away, but Frager's makes you feel like you're part of the neighborhood.
OK, weird. There's something shocking about all the 5 start reviews here.
Don't get me wrong; this is a great neighborhood hardware store / paint store / equipment rental / home improvement hints and tips type place. And it's true the people are helpful and generally knowledgeable. And like other here I'm glad Frager's exists because it's the only real option within walking distance of where I live.
But I have to agree with shawn g that it is WAY overpriced, and I'm docking it a star for that. I've heard you get 10% off for opening an account but haven't tried it myself. But since the markup is closer to 30-40% higher than HD, and they do run out of stuff from time to time, I can't redeem the star fully for that...
Good neighborhood store - they offer a lot of different services too.
My in-laws sent me to this store asking for a square knife thingy for windows. Even though I had no idea what that was, the helpful people at Frager's knew exactly what I was (apparently) looking for. This is a great store with great customer service and pretty nice prices. It is like stepping back in time to old town hardware stores in the 50s and 60s, with the narrow aisles and everything squished on to shelves in creative ways.
As for prices... most of our items were pretty similarly priced to Home Depot. We did find that a few specialty items -- like Armstrong floor cleaner -- was significantly more expensive. However, those items are few and far between.
Frager's is probably the coolest hardware store in the world. It's in an old rowhouse that hasn't been renovated since, well, maybe ever, and it's got tons of orginal charm. The store wraps and winds around, and every time I go there I find another part of the store that I didn't know existed. I thought I had seen it all, but last week I was looking for a vent cover and I was pointed towards the basement, which opened up a whole new world of items.
I'm a general contractor, so I often am looking for pretty random items, and Frager's never dissapoints. I've bought paint, nuts and bolts, lumber, hardwood floor cleaner, and drywall compound at this store. I would especially recommend Frager's for hardware, like screws and nails. They are very knowledgeable and can match the thread on pretty much any screw you need, which is hard to do.
All in all, if you're looking for a small item and you're anywhere near Capitol Hill, go here. A hardware store has to be pretty amazing when you see people walking around the city in T-Shirts with Frager's logo on them.
Stepping into Frager's is like crossing the space time continuum - back to an age when small businesses mattered. In my opinion, it is a glorious thing to trust a business owner so much that you're willing to pay a premium for their knowledge, friendly good manner, and comprehensive inventory.
They really have everything you could ever need for home improvement -- and someone is always ready to assist.
If you live on the Hill and you haven't visited Frager's - that's just crazy talk.
Quite simply the best hardware store in DC. While you might save 5% by shopping at Home Depot, you won't find the same blend of selection, advice and customer service in your far flung suburban home repair super store. The staff is always available, handy and there's always someone around who is experienced in your specific project.
Try to go sometime near closing time for the rare treat of hearing the guy in the key section give his closing announcement.. It's priceless...
I normally wouldn't go out of my way to come to DC for a hardware store, but I was in town and decided to check it out. I'm glad I did!
I was searching for a new phone jack cover to replace the one that the previous owners painted over in a really bad color. I went to both Home Depot and Lowes and had no luck.
The people there were very eager to help, though I quickly found what I needed on my own. I also picked the right day to go. They had a 50% on garden stuff. I was able to get some nice new planters for my sidewalk for much less than the larger stores.
I may not go out of my way again, but If I do need something and happen to be in DC, I will remember to come back.
I am officially the only person on the Hill that doesn't think Fragers poops gold coated diamond eggs. They are WAY overpriced. $24 for a dish drainer? Really? Maybe they had the same advisors that got us all in this financial mess. The place does have charm, but I didn't find the staff any more helpful than the average ACE Hardware, and until they get their heads screwed on straight with the prices, I'll be getting my hardware needs taken care of elsewhere.
Yes, its expensive. Yes, its hard finding a parking spot. Yes, they DO have that 3/4 inch left threaded hex bolt that will fit your original front door to your 1918 row home.
When the zombies rise from their graves, I'm heading to Frager's for supplies.
I've been in all kinds of hardware stores--my mom is an interior designer--so being impressed by one is something that rarely happens with me. The moment I first walked into Frager's (March 2007, right after I moved to DC), I fell in love with it. And it's clear that Frager's loves being a neighborhood hardware store, which is not the corporate hardware store vibe.
The Frager's compound takes up three stores on Pennsylvania Ave SE. The hardware store is next to the rental shop, and the rental shop is next to the paint supply store. Four stores, if you count the garden shop as a separate area from the hardware store proper.
I could live in the garden shop and may do so one year.
Don't worry if you...
1. Need something but can't describe it in precise language;
2. Need something and have the broken/bent piece of it only;
3. Need something that seems obscure or irreplaceable;
4. Need something for that crappy piece of IKEA furniture you bought last April;
5. Need something and kind of know what the name of it is, or at least have a good idea of most of the letters in its name; or
6. Need something and haven't got a clue as to what it could be.
I have never, ever, been around people more knowledgeable about their work than the Frager's employees. Just tell them what you're doing and what you need, and they'll find the right item(s). I have found that if Frager's doesn't have what I want, it's usually because they have the wrong amount or size, and not because they are missing that item entirely.
Frager's is super-busy on Saturdays, especially in spring and summer as people work on their homes and gardens. This is an incentive to go and, uh, "wait" for the checkout lines to clear. While looking at the C clamps and light bulbs. And the new plant arrivals.
Parking is not easy there by any stretch, so be prepared to drive around for a bit. People double park in front of the store all the time. I usually find a space in front of the gas station down the street, but that depends on whether it's a Saturday or a week day.
Two townhouses back up and open onto Frager's. Those people are some of the luckiest people in the world.
I love Frager's for my quick hardware errands, especially for things like getting keys or propane for the grill. The service is absolutely great, and my husband loves talking to them about tool/product options.
While they have never not had what I need, sometime the selection can be small, so I end up getting a more expensive item than I really want. They also are a little more expensive than the big chain stores, but in general I feel that a dollar more for a product still is a better deal when you consider the gas/metro/time to go to a larger store farther away. I still go to the bigger stores for major projects, but Frager's is very handy to have.
If Frager's doesn't stock it you probably don't need it...
However, you probably will find tons of stuff at Frager's that you suddenly decided that you really do need. Like last week, when I was struck by this super cool item that looked like a tin clock but you put it outside and it tells you the weather. Kind of like a barometer.
This was after I had picked up a mop and bucket, natural geranium scented floor wash, a jute rug, purveyed the room of trashcans and the room of nails (both were overwhelming) and realized I really had to have multi-colored kitchen aid magnetic bag clips.
Then, with the help of a couple employees II went and totally cleaned out my wallet in the plant section.
Did I also mention the stuff they carry is very hip? Like the multi-colored colanders and bamboo utensils. The prices weren't extravagant either.
And for some reason I didn't feel bad about all the money I was spending. Which I am going to chalk up to my impression that the employees were well paid - they didn't have that retail slave look about them. In addition, to the joy of spending money in my neighborhood instead of some suburban mega-store.
Really, I can't wait to go back for my next home improvement project!
Frager's Hardware takes pride in old-fashioned, personalized service. Ample employees are knowledgeable and ready to assist.
When I moved onto the Hill, I decided to build some simple, built-in bookshelves for my bedroom. I carefully measured the dimensions and headed to Frager's on a busy Saturday afternoon. Although the store was bustling with local fixer-uppers, Frager's staff helped me, right away, and took me to the lumber area, where they produced every woodcut, to my exact specifications. Service was quick and perfect.
I'm givin' the FINGER to Home Depot! Thank goodness for Frager's.
This place is OUTSTANDING. They are very helpful, know a lot of stuff, have a lot in stock, they will even cook your meals for you and do your laundry (you have to ask them very nicely though). They are a bit on the pricey side, but great service and lots of stock to choose from.
Just your "old school" hardware store that has exceptional customer service. Sure you'll probably pay more but I've never walked thru this store and not ask me if I needed help. Great rental place as well.
No Target? No problem! I was sad when I moved to DC to find that Targets were not easily accessible, but it turns out that Frager's has all the random household things you need, plus plants and gardening and hardware, all delivered in the form of a friendly neighborhood store. The people who work there are friendly besides, and know exactly where things you have no idea of are. While the aisles are relatively narrow by modern standards, it's only because they pack so many useful things into them. Whenever I go to Frager's, I find myself having the urge to impulse-buy, whoever thought that was possible in a hardware store -especially for some one who doesn't even own a hammer?
A sample list of things to be found at Frager's:
plants
pots
shower curtains
cookware
PVC piping
mace
handsoap
awesome gadgets
rubber ducky shower mirror
what you're thinking of that's not on this list
Great hardware store. Can be impossible to find what you need since half of their stock seems to be in rooms that aren't part of the main store, but this is why Fragers always has lots of helpful staff. Tell them what you're looking for or ask their advice and you'll be in and out in no time with a smile on your face (unlike the typically exhausting Home Depot experience).
Wonderful hardware store. Just so much to look at and buy.
The staff is great, they know their stuff. I have asked for some random things and they knew what isle it would be on which is impressive.
The paint store connected to the hardware store is also very nice. all in all the best hardware store in DC
Maybe anywhere :)
Like Sean said, Frager's Hardware is the kind of place my father drug me to at the age of four with the promise that if I helped him sort through just the right washers and measure the exact length of dowel rods and was a good girl the whole time, we'd get ice cream! Ever since, hardware stores have carried a nostalgic sense of excitement for me (and an undeniable craving for cookies n' cream). The creaky, wooden floors and nonsensical layout and organization of the store are all homage to a Capitol Hill institution.
When I first moved to the Hill, I made my way to the nearest hardware store to make copies of my new keys (I have a tendency to lose them often) and turned up with much, much more. Frager's has, quite literally, everything. Aside from the usual key copying, hardware gadgets and selection of plumbing equipmen they also have a variety of other household needs: bathroom accessories, seeds and fertilizer, tupperware, and the much coveted Fragler's Hardware t-shirts. The employees are helpful (if not extremely busy) and knowledgeable. The next time I am looking for 1/8 galvanized malleable cap, or maybe just a rubber bath mat, I'm heading here!
I've been a customer of Frager's since the 60's, before John and Ed took over from old Mr. Frager. It was the best hardware store on the Hill then and is the best in the city now. That the staff has increased and remained over so many years tells you a lot about the store - friendly and knowledgeable. In a neighborhood where most houses are close to 100 years old they have catered to the exact needs of restorers and renovators, home owners and contractors. I no longer live on the Hill, but when I need something and question the availability I am confident Frager's will have it.
I am pleased with the opportunity to write a review because, in my estimation, John, Ed, and the Frager's crew have made a hugely positive contribution to the Capitol Hill community. Thanks, guys.
Added yet two more T shirts to my "where did my Frager's T shirt go" collection (husband's brother adopted my previous) totaling my receipt to $257.00. Ooops. How is it possible that this stores constantly gets better and better.
Fragers is a bit out of the way for me but its definitely worth it. I just make a huge list over the… Read more »
I'm in love with this place. I have the T-shirt - no joke. Why is it so great? They've got just about everything you'd want (check out the nuts and bolts room in the very back, for example) and the customer service is fantastic. I've been there countless times. I recenlty went there right after going to Lowes (Alexandria and New Carolloton) and it was ridiculous how much more attentive and knowledgeable the staff were at Fragers than at Lowes.
The obvious downside is that it can be a bit pricey. But it's worth it.
Nothing is as good as Frager's.
Their narrow aisles are filled to the brim with practically anything you'd ever need. It's hard to navigate the aisles if you don't know exactly where something is, but they will always offer to help you. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and extremely helpful. (Their paint store next door is also wonderful.) At Frager's, you can find anything from specialty tools to Christmas trees and decorations to household cleaners. When I went in this week, they were selling multi-colored colanders!! The owners Ed and John are the sweetest guys and know their regulars by name.
Frager's is an institution on Capitol Hill. I'd point anyone in their direction.
It's a nice small store with helpful staff. Things also aren't super expensive.
Frager's costs a little more than the big chains, but they always have parts in stock that bigger stores may not even carry (and they're closer if you live in the Hill neighborhoods). Even better, they have knowledgeable staff around every corner who can help you find exactly what you need. Great to have nearby when you need this or that to get something done quick.
Fantastic! The staff is knowledgeable - make that ULTRA knowledgeable. Sure their prices may not be as low as Lowe's or Home Depot... but they have an amazing selection and the staff has all the answers and is extremely helpful!!!
Frager's is a pretty good hardware store-they generally have a lot in stock and the staff are really helpful and knowledgeable. Some of their items are a little more expensive than larger hardware stores, but I think it's worth it to support the local store.
Neighborhood: H Street Corridor/Atlas District/Near Northeast
Category: Hardware Stores
Neighborhood: Capitol Hill/Southeast
Category: Kitchen & Bath
Neighborhood: Logan Circle
Category: Nurseries & Gardening
Neighborhood: Capitol Hill/Northeast
Category: Beer, Wine & Spirits
Neighborhood: Adams Morgan
Category: Shoe Stores
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