On 9 Mar 2005 17:14:39 -0800, in uk.d-i-y wrote:

hmm... I guess just briefly the pros and cons of hire vs buy, and
really i think it needs to be honest, hire tools are the most
unreliable of all tool types.

Hi
+ high power trade quality tool
- highest incidence of duff or faulty tools and blades

Look at Which? report to find the best hire shops. Or ask here.

- if the work goes over time, you usually pay more.

Work always does - Fri night to Mon morning is usually at a special
cheap rate. Sometimes get a good deal if you pick it up late in the day.
Make sure they will give you the proper rate for time actually used if
you run over time.

- 2 journeys for the tool instead of one
- significant deposit usually required

+ inventory (just look at the catalogue)
+ available at short notice, ring and check; pick-up
+ can get advice on its use if you ask (variable quality though)
+ you get the deposit back ;-)
+ *only* 2 journeys instead of multiple visits researching what to buy
+ they will answer the "what do i need for this job" questions.

Buy:
- Lower cost less rugged tools
+ much more reliable

Be prepared (even expect?) to take it back and demand a
replacement/money back. Allow time for this.

+ you keep the tool for other jobs, at no further cost

Major advantage. Main reason I have for hiring vs buying for certain
items is lack of storage space for bulky items like scaffold tower, big
kango, cement mixer....

+/- In many cases, buying a new budget tool is cheaper than hiring, but
by no means all.

Check: compare prices, sometimes buying is the clear winner, sometimes
hiring is.



Phil
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