When it comes to purchasing hardware products, many projects are nearing completion. The building materials market and various small and large building material supermarkets across Beijing’s four cities and eight districts are well-known. However, buying hardware differs significantly from purchasing other building materials or furniture. What sets hardware apart in the market? How should consumers approach this purchase? A reporter visited major building materials markets and interviewed experts. Experts advise: when buying hardware, don’t be careless—professional knowledge is essential.
**Faucets: Pay Attention to Sealing Differences**
According to Wang Gong from the Hardware Product Quality Testing Center, many manufacturers are cutting costs by using inferior materials such as old cast iron, rusted zinc alloy, and non-corrosive metals for faucet production. This leads to quality issues that are hard to detect visually. Poor-quality faucets may have problems with material thickness and internal structure, which can affect their sealing and strength performance. Consumers should be cautious about these hidden flaws.
Wang Gong also noted that current faucets on the market often have advanced surface treatments and good sealing properties. When shopping, consumers can check whether the faucet handle turns smoothly without any gaps. A high-quality faucet should feel solid, with no resistance or slipping. Inferior ones usually have larger gaps and feel less smooth. Additionally, the main parts of a good faucet, like the valve body and handle, are typically made of brass, which is heavier and feels more substantial. Checking for proper identification marks is also important—legitimate products usually have clear brand labels, while counterfeit or low-quality items may lack them entirely.
The most critical part of a faucet is its valve core. There are three types: rubber, ball, and stainless steel cores. Stainless steel cores are considered the best due to their superior sealing, stability, and long lifespan. The faucet body is usually made of bronze, and a high-quality one should be cast in one piece. When tapped, it should produce a dull sound, whereas a brittle sound indicates lower quality. The surface finish—such as galvanization, titanium coating, or painting—should be bright and thick, especially for imported models. A protective film on the plating layer helps prevent fading and oxidation.
Consumers can also refer to national standards for faucets and hoses issued by the National Technical Quality Supervision Bureau. These standards help define quality benchmarks. If there are concerns, users can request testing at quality inspection departments to verify the faucet’s sealing, strength, and durability.
**Hardware: Similar Appearance, Big Price Difference**
Small hardware includes furniture hardware, door locks, and stainless steel zippers. Though they make up a small portion of the total renovation cost, their quality directly affects the overall life and comfort of the home. Many consumers overlook quality, focusing only on price. However, the right hardware ensures better functionality and longevity.
The challenge in buying small hardware lies in distinguishing quality. Most manufacturers imitate each other in design and technology, making it difficult to tell real from fake. For example, in a local building materials market near Yuquanying, similar-looking triangular baskets were priced between 10 to 30 yuan, while door locks ranged from 30 to 300 yuan. The difference in price often reflects the difference in material and quality.
To identify the materials, weight is a key factor. Copper and stainless steel are the heaviest, followed by zinc alloy and plastic. The finish also gives clues—chrome-plated surfaces tend to be brighter and more resistant to rust.
**Aluminum Gypsum Boards: Be Alert to Installation Scams**
Purchasing aluminum gypsum boards involves not just the product but also installation. Some dealers lure customers with low installation fees, but this may lead to substandard work. For instance, an installation quote of 15 yuan per square meter might hide poor construction quality, with workers rushing through the job and potentially substituting fake materials.
The actual cost of ceiling installation includes the price of the board itself, corner pieces, and labor. Some companies mislead customers by quoting low rates that exclude additional costs. In reality, the total cost could easily exceed 30 yuan per square meter when considering accessories, transportation, and time spent.
Another common misconception is that thicker plates are always better. Some manufacturers use thin aluminum sheets, so it's important to check both the surface finish and the evenness of the plate thickness. A good board should feel sturdy and flexible when pressed.
**Where to Buy Hardware More Cost-Effectively**
In large home improvement stores or supermarkets, you can find reliable products like lamps, wires, and pipes, even if they come at a higher price. However, for items like ceramic tiles, sanitary ware, and faucets, smaller markets often offer better value while maintaining quality.
After visiting several hardware markets and supermarkets, it was found that faucets, hardware, and aluminum gussets are most available in supermarkets and lower-end markets. Supermarkets offer a wide range of brands, good service, and return policies. Lower-end markets may have cheaper prices but lack after-sales support.
For those looking for style and convenience, big home improvement stores are ideal. For budget-conscious buyers, lower-end markets can be a good choice, provided they take the time to compare and decide carefully.
**Tips for Buying Hardware**
1. **Hinges, Guides, and Handles**
Hinges are commonly made of copper or stainless steel. Look for smooth operation and ball bearings in the shaft. Drawer guides should be durable and quiet. Door hinges need strong spring mechanisms to ensure proper closure.
2. **Handles and Locks**
Handles come in various materials, including zinc alloy, copper, and stainless steel. They should be strong and able to withstand heavy pulling. Locks, especially modern ones like three-in-one switches, are popular. Check for quality finishes and avoid cheap zinc alloy locks that may break easily.
3. **Pendants, Baskets, and Shelves**
Stainless steel pendants and baskets are common in kitchens and bathrooms. Choose based on weight capacity and build quality. Bathroom shelves should be sturdy and have smooth solder joints.
**Global Hardware Network**
*Stay informed and avoid surprises.*
**Tag:** Hardware Accessories, Heavy Quality
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