Local Ace Hardware store offers virtual home help

An Ace Hardware independent retailer is providing project assistance via mobile app.

Cloverdale Ace Hardware, located in Winston-Salem, N.C., is partnering with North Carolina-based home repair technology startup Patch to offer virtual home maintenance assistance to customers. The beta launch of Patch, which was expedited to offer assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic, enables customers to share details about their project with an Ace associate at the Coverdale location or a remote home assistant. 

Homeowners can then use the app’s chat or video function to get assistance in making simple repairs, recommendations on the types of tools and supplies they need, and make a connection to a professional if they decide it's best to let a contractor handle the job.
 
“We have seen a significant increase in tools and hardware supplies for home maintenance and smaller DIY projects since the stay-at-home order was put into place,” said Cloverdale Ace Hardware co-owner Douglas Brown. “We want to do everything we can to be a resource for those looking to tackle home improvement projects. We believe that the safety of our associates, our customers and the Winston-Salem community is our top priority. Through this partnership with Patch, and the other measures that we’re already taking, we can even more effectively do all of those things.”

Other retailers in the DIY home space are also rolling out virtual project assistance as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Specialty lighting retailer Lamps Plus recently started providing free custom lighting design consultations via phone and text.