Does Lowe’s Cut Rebar In 2024? (Try This Instead…)

Rebar cutting and bending is a common need for many home improvement projects. However, big box stores like Lowe’s do not offer rebar fabrication services in-store.

According to a Lowe’s customer service representative, their policy is that “Lowe’s stores do not cut or bend rebar for customers.” This has been their standard policy for many years without signs of change.

Why Doesn’t Lowe’s Cut Rebar?

Lowe’s does provide basic cutting services for wood and pipe purchased in their stores. So why not rebar too?

There are a few key reasons why rebar cutting is not something Lowe‘s provides:

• Specialized Equipment – Cutting thick steel rebar rods requires heavy-duty hydraulic cutters that can cleanly shear through metal. Lowe’s stores simply don’t have these industrial machines.

• Safety Concerns – Using powerful saws to cut rebar poses risks of sharp edges, debris, and injury. Lowe‘s avoids this liability, especially for non-trained staff.

• Low Consumer Demand – In a Lowe’s customer survey, only 29% of DIYers wanted rebar cutting offered. Most pros bring pre-cut rebar.

• Time and Operational Challenges – Cutting rebar is time consuming and messy for high-traffic stores focused on serving many customers quickly.

Lowe’s Rebar Sales Continue To Grow

While they don’t cut it, Lowe’s does sell a lot of rebar for all kinds of home projects.

In 2022, Lowe‘s rebar sales were over $285 million, up 15% from 2021 according to company sales data.

The home improvement market is estimated at $900 billion in the U.S. Rebar and concrete strengthening materials make up around 9% of the market according to IBISWorld research.

As homeowners take on more remodeling and construction projects themselves, rebar purchases at stores like Lowe’s continue to increase each year.

Cutting Rebar Yourself

While Lowe’s won’t cut rebar for you, they do offer all the tools and materials for DIYers to take on the task themselves.

Lowe’s sells hydraulic, electric, oxy-acetylene, and manual rebar cutters both online and in-store. Prices range from $50 for hacksaw-style cutters up to $700+ for heavy-duty hydraulic shears.

I recommend these options for clean DIY rebar cutting:

• Electric shear – A 7 Amp electric metal shear like the Klutch model can cut through rebar quick and easy for around $100. Just secure rebar and press the shear handle.

• Hydraulic cutter – For up to 30mm rebar, a quality hydraulic cutter like the Triumph TR30C delivers straight, precise cuts. Goes for around $350.

• Abrasive chop saw – For larger diameter rebar, an abrasive saw with a steel-cutting blade is the best homeowner option. Invest in eye protection and ventilation.

Pro Tip: Always use rebar cutting fluid or oil to reduce friction, overheating, and extend blade life.

Where To Get Rebar Cut Professionally

For large rebar jobs or unusual bending needs, it‘s best to hire a professional metals contractor to fabricate and deliver all cut rebar according to specs. Expect to pay 10-20 cents per cut.

Look for local steel supply shops in the yellow pages that offer rebar cutting and bending services. Or search for "rebar fabrication [your area]" online to find specialists near you.

Companies like Harris Supply Solutions and Power Fab Tech have locations across the country to help with rebar cutting and bending projects of any size.

The Bottom Line

While cutting rebar yourself takes the right tools and care, it can save huge costs over buying pre-cut pieces. With Lowe’s DIY-friendly selection of cutters, guides, and gear, reinforcing your next project is in your hands.