It comes from the union "I can't be fired for being surly" mentality, and (I suppose) the fact that they have to deal with non-professionals trying to DIY all day.

My supply house has a big sign by the door that says "WHOLESALE TO THE TRADE ONLY". Still they do get a few DIYrs with big b**** who ignore it but it's usually worth the entertainment value.

I've been dealing with this place for probably 40 years and knew the owners fathers. Some of the guys that work there I went to HS with.

When I have to go to other supply houses I find that how you are treated depends on whether you know what you are talking about.

-Hal

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING: Some comments made by me are known to the State of California to cause irreversible brain damage and serious mental disorders leading to confinement.