Does Ace Hardware do blade sharpening?

Ace Hardware is a popular nationwide chain of local hardware stores. With over 5,000 locations across the United States, Ace Hardware stores provide a wide selection of tools, home improvement supplies, lawn and garden equipment, and more. One of the services offered at many Ace Hardware locations is blade sharpening. In this article, we’ll take a look at whether Ace Hardware provides blade sharpening services, what types of blades they sharpen, how much it costs, and other key details.

The Short Answer

Yes, many Ace Hardware stores do offer blade sharpening services. However, not all locations provide this service. You’ll need to contact your local Ace Hardware store or check their website to see if they offer blade sharpening.

Background on Ace Hardware

Ace Hardware was founded in 1924 as Ace Stores and re-branded to Ace Hardware Corporation in 1973. It is based out of Oak Brook, Illinois and is one of the largest hardware cooperatives in America. Local retailers own each Ace Hardware store individually or as a group. However, they benefit from the collective buying power and support of the cooperative. This allows them to compete with big box chains while maintaining a local feel.

The company motto is “the helpful place” which focuses on providing excellent customer service. Part of this customer service includes specialty services like blade sharpening, glass cutting, screen repair, pipe threading, and key cutting. However, not all stores offer these services since individual owners decide which to provide.

What Types of Blades Do They Sharpen?

Ace Hardware locations that offer blade sharpening can sharpen a variety of blades including:

  • Lawn mower blades
  • Hedge trimmer blades
  • Brush cutter blades
  • Pruner blades
  • Axes
  • Shovels
  • Hoes
  • Machetes
  • Knives
  • Scissors

Essentially, if it has a blade edge, they can sharpen it. The exception is chainsaw chains. Due to the complexity of chainsaw chains, most Ace Hardware locations do not offer chain sharpening. Instead, they recommend customers take chainsaw chains to a specialized chainsaw shop for sharpening.

The Blade Sharpening Process at Ace Hardware

The actual blade sharpening process will vary a bit by location based on the equipment they have. However, it follows the same general pattern:

  1. Customer brings in the blade for sharpening
  2. Staff inspects the blade and identifies the sharpening needs
  3. The blade edge is sharpened using a grinding wheel or sharpening stone
  4. For chisel and beveled blades, the appropriate blade angles are established
  5. The blade edge is honed and polished
  6. The blade is cleaned and lubricated
  7. Customer picks up sharpened blade

Some locations may have advanced sharpening systems while others will sharpen manually. But in all cases, the Ace Hardware staff are skilled at sharpening all types of blades quickly and correctly. Many locations also offer same day sharpening services.

How Much Does Blade Sharpening Cost at Ace Hardware?

The cost for blade sharpening at Ace Hardware locations varies depending on the size and type of blade. Some examples of common blade sharpening prices include:

Blade Type Average Price
Lawn mower blade $5 – $10
Hedge trimmer blade $7 – $12
Pruner blade $5 – $8
Shovel or hoe $4 – $6
Knife sharpening (per inch) $1 – $2
Scissor sharpening $4 – $8

Many stores offer package deals where you can get multiple items sharpened at a discounted rate. For example, some locations offer 5 lawn mower blades sharpened for $20. Contact your local Ace Hardware to find out about any sharpening packages or seasonal specials.

Benefits of Using Ace Hardware for Sharpening

There are several advantages to using Ace Hardware for your blade sharpening needs:

  • Convenient locations across the U.S. make it easy to find an Ace Hardware near you.
  • Experienced staff that know how to properly sharpen any blade
  • Quick turnaround time with many offering same day service
  • Quality sharpening using professional grade equipment
  • Affordable pricing that is very competitive
  • Peace of mind from their satisfaction guarantee

Ace Hardware focuses on delivering quality services at reasonable prices. So you can trust them to put a razor-sharp edge on any blade you bring in. Their skilled technicians understand the nuances of sharpening different blade types correctly.

How to Find Your Nearest Ace Hardware Offering Blade Sharpening

The easiest way to find an Ace Hardware store that provides blade sharpening is to:

  1. Do an online search for “Ace Hardware near me”
  2. Visit the closest locations or check their websites
  3. Look for blade sharpening in their list of services or call and ask
  4. Choose a store providing sharpening services

You can also go to AceHardware.com and search for stores by zip code. This will show you all the Ace Hardware locations in your area. Then check the individual store sites or call them to confirm blade sharpening is available.

Conclusion

Ace Hardware is a great choice for blade sharpening services. Thousands of stores around the country offer sharpening on all types of blades at reasonable prices. Their knowledgeable staff will ensure your blades come back with a razor-sharp, professional edge. Contact your neighborhood Ace Hardware today to handle all your blade sharpening needs.

So in summary:

  • Many Ace Hardware locations offer blade sharpening but call ahead to confirm.
  • They can sharpen lawn mower blades, knives, shears, axes, and most other blades.
  • Blade sharpening typically costs $4 – $12 depending on the blade.
  • Ace Hardware provides quick, high quality sharpening services.
  • Finding a store near you that sharpens blades is easy using the store locator.

Bring your dull blades into Ace Hardware and get them professionally sharpened so they are like new again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to sharpen lawn mower blades at Ace Hardware?

Ace Hardware typically charges $5 – $10 to sharpen a standard lawn mower blade. The price may vary slightly by location but is generally in this range. They can often sharpen mulching, high-lift, and other specialty mower blades as well for a similar price.

What is the turnaround time for blade sharpening at Ace Hardware?

Many Ace Hardware locations offer same day blade sharpening services. However, turnaround time can vary from store to store. Some may take 1-3 days depending on their current workload. It’s recommended to call ahead for estimated turnaround time, especially during peak seasons.

Does Ace Hardware sharpen chainsaw chains?

No, Ace Hardware stores do not generally offer chainsaw chain sharpening. Chainsaw chains require specialty machines and skills. They recommend customers take chainsaw chains to a professional chainsaw shop for proper sharpening.

What types of scissors does Ace Hardware sharpen?

Ace Hardware can sharpen virtually any type of scissors including household, sewing, barber, beauty, kitchen, and more. The exception is pinking shears. Many locations cannot sharpen pinking shears due to the unique blade shape. Check with your local store for specifics on which scissor types they offer sharpening services for.

Does Ace Hardware sharpen axe blades?

Yes, bring your dull axe blades into Ace Hardware for professional sharpening. Their grinding wheels will reshape and hone the edge for maximum cutting performance. Prices are reasonable, typically in the $5 to $12 range depending on axe size.

Can I watch while my blade is sharpened?

Policies regarding watching blade sharpening vary by location. Some Ace Hardware stores do allow customers to observe if they wish. However, other locations may not permit it due to safety concerns with the sharpening equipment. Check with your local Ace Hardware to understand their specific policies. Keep in mind blade sharpening usually only takes a few minutes.

Should I remove the blade before bringing it in?

In most cases, you can bring in the entire tool with the blade still attached. The Ace Hardware staff are accustomed to removing and reattaching mower blades, hedge trimmer blades, axe heads, and more. Just let them know it’s still attached when you drop it off. However, for safety it is recommended to remove knife blades from the handle before transport.

Can I sharpen blades bought at other retailers?

Yes, Ace Hardware will sharpen any standard blade, regardless of where it was purchased originally. Their sharpening services are not just for blades bought at Ace Hardware. As long as it is a common blade type that they have the equipment for, Ace Hardware can provide fast, professional sharpening.

Does Ace Hardware offer mobile sharpening services?

No, Ace Hardware does not currently offer mobile blade sharpening services that come to your home or business. All sharpening is done at their retail store locations. You need to bring the blades into the store for the sharpening work to be performed.

Key Takeaways

  • Confirm blade sharpening is available at your local Ace Hardware store before visiting.
  • They sharpen most types of blades including lawn mower, hedge trimmer, axes, shears, knives, etc.
  • Typical sharpening prices range from $4 to $12 per blade.
  • Fast turnaround with same day service at many locations.
  • Quality sharpening is guaranteed to restore a razor edge.
  • Use the online store locator to find an Ace Hardware offering sharpening near you.