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Home Depot is one of those stores most of us think we understand. You go in, grab what you need for your project, maybe compare a few brands, check out, and head home.

But Home Depot has perks, hidden discounts, generous guarantees, and built-in services that many shoppers never take advantage of. Here are things you didn’t know you could do at Home Depot.

home depot truck — Image Credit: Mike Mozart from Funny YouTube, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Rent Tools Instead of Buying Them

Home Depot rents out everything from carpet cleaners and pressure washers to jackhammers, tile saws, stump grinders, and even mini excavators.

If you only need something for one weekend, renting is often dramatically cheaper than buying, and you don’t have to store it afterward.

Buy “Oops” Paint for a Fraction of the Price

Every Home Depot has a section of mis-tinted paint, gallons that were mixed incorrectly or never picked up.

If you’re flexible on color, this is one of the best deals in the store. You can sometimes grab premium paint for just a few dollars per gallon.

It’s perfect for furniture projects, small rooms, sheds, or anywhere color precision doesn’t matter.

Get Paint Matched to an Existing Color

If you’re trying to touch up a wall or match trim, you can bring in a paint chip (or even a small removable piece) and have paint matched. It’s not always perfect, depending on the lighting and the age of the paint, but it can get you very close.

Return Perennials, Trees, and Shrubs for Up to a Year

Not many people know this one. Perennials, trees, and shrubs are covered by a one-year guarantee. If you plant them and they fail within 12 months (with receipt), you can return them.

If you purchase live plants online and they arrive damaged, you can report the issue within a short window for a replacement.

It reduces some of the risk in landscaping investments.

Rent a Truck for Large Purchases

Don’t own a truck? You can rent one directly from Home Depot for short periods to haul lumber, mulch, appliances, or furniture.

The Load ‘n Go rentals are especially helpful for one-off hauling needs when delivery fees don’t make sense.

Use Delivery Instead of Renting a Truck

If you’re buying heavy materials, compare the delivery fee to the cost of renting a truck, loading everything, and losing half a day. For big orders (mulch pallets, lumber bundles, flooring), delivery can be the cheaper and easier move.

Use the Pro Desk Even If You’re Not a Contractor

You don’t have to be a licensed contractor to walk up to the Pro Desk. If you’re buying large quantities or planning a bigger project, they can help you coordinate bulk pricing, delivery, and product sourcing.

Get a Price Match

Most people know about Home Depot’s price-matching policy. What many don’t realize is that their Low Price Guarantee also factors in shipping costs.

If you find the exact same item in stock at a qualifying competitor for less, Home Depot will match the price, including shipping, if you’re ordering online. That makes it worth checking Amazon, Lowe’s, Walmart, or Target before you check out.

Just bring proof at checkout or show it online.

Get Money Back If Something Goes on Sale After You Buy It

Ever bought something only to see it discounted the following week? If it’s within 30 days of your purchase, you can request a price adjustment. Bring your receipt to customer service and ask for a refund for the difference.

It’s a simple move that can save you real money, especially around major holiday sales.

Decode the Yellow Clearance Tags

Those yellow price tags aren’t random. Shopping early in the week often gives you first access to fresh markdowns. It’s a small detail, but learning the tag system can help you time your purchases better.

If the price ends in .06, it’s scheduled to be marked down again soon.
If it ends in .03, it’s typically at its final markdown and will likely be cleared out shortly.

Use Coupons From Competing Stores

In some cases, Home Depot accepts valid competitor coupons. Policies can vary by location, so it’s always worth asking at customer service before assuming the answer is no.

Use Bulk Pricing If You’re Buying Large Quantities

If you’re painting multiple units, installing pavers, or working on rental properties, check the bulk pricing page online.

Many building materials and paint supplies drop in price once you hit certain quantity thresholds. It’s especially useful for landlords, house flippers, or anyone tackling larger projects.

18 Things You Should Always Buy In Bulk

Use the App to Find Hidden Inventory

You can scan barcodes with the Home Depot app to see reviews, check aisle locations instantly, and verify stock levels at nearby stores. It also lets you search by photo if you don’t know what something is called.

It saves time wandering and helps you confirm pricing before you commit.