I have a confession: I used to dread shopping on Black Friday. The crowds, the stress, and the feeling that you’re missing out on deals were overwhelming. But then I started shopping Lowe’s Black Friday sales strategically, and everything changed. Suddenly, I realized that with the right approach, you can actually save serious money without the chaos.
Here’s the thing about Lowe’s Black Friday deals: they’re genuinely some of the best sales you’ll see all year. We’re talking discounts of 30-50% on everything from power tools to kitchen appliances, from lumber to lighting fixtures. Whether you’re a homeowner planning a renovation, a DIY enthusiast looking for tools, or someone who just needs to upgrade their home, Lowe’s Black Friday is worth paying attention to.
The challenge isn’t whether Lowe’s Black Friday has good deals. The challenge is knowing which deals are actually worth your time, when to shop, how to navigate the madness, and how to avoid the traps that retailers set. That’s exactly what we’re going to cover in this article. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear game plan for getting the absolute best value from Lowe’s Black Friday, whether you’re shopping in-store or online.
When Does Lowe’s Black Friday Actually Start?
Let me clear up something that confuses a lot of people: Lowe’s Black Friday doesn’t just happen on one day anymore. That ship sailed years ago.
These days, Lowe’s typically starts promoting Black Friday deals weeks in advance. You might see “early access” sales starting as early as mid-October, with major promotions ramping up in November. The official Black Friday falls on the day after Thanksgiving in the U.S., but the real Lowe’s Black Friday sales event spans multiple weeks leading up to it and often continues well into the following week or even through the entire month of November.
Last year, Lowe’s Black Friday sales started around early November and ran through the end of the month. The pattern has been consistent: they announce deals, promote them heavily, extend them if they’re selling well, and then introduce new deals as older ones wrap up. This means you don’t have to wait for the exact Friday after Thanksgiving to start shopping Lowe’s Black Friday deals.
In fact, I’d argue that waiting until actual Black Friday is often a mistake. By then, popular items might be out of stock. The smartest Lowe’s Black Friday shoppers start watching the sales calendar in October and plan what they want to buy. This gives you time to hunt for deals, compare options, and make informed decisions rather than scrambling at the last minute.
What Kind of Deals Does Lowe’s Black Friday Actually Offer?
Lowes Black Friday sales cover almost everything in the store, but some categories see deeper discounts than others.
Power Tools and Hand Tools: This is where some of the biggest Lowe’s Black Friday savings happen. Cordless drill sets, circular saws, angle grinders, and complete tool collections often get 30-40% discounts. If you’ve been eyeing that DeWalt or Makita toolkit, Black Friday is often your best opportunity to buy.
Appliances: Refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, washing machines, and dryers frequently see substantial Lowe’s Black Friday markdowns. These are typically big-ticket items, so even a 20% discount saves you hundreds of dollars. Last year, I saw some refrigerators marked down by $800-1,000 during Lowe’s Black Friday.
Building Materials and Lumber: If you’re planning a home project, Lowe’s Black Friday brings discounts on lumber, drywall, insulation, and roofing materials. These might seem like smaller percentage discounts (10-25%), but the dollar savings add up quickly when you’re buying in volume.
Lighting and Fixtures: Light bulbs, ceiling fans, chandeliers, and light fixtures are regularly discounted during Lowe’s Black Friday. These are usually good deals because the markups are already built into regular prices, so a 30% discount represents substantial savings.
Kitchen and Bath: Sink faucets, cabinets, countertops, and bathroom fixtures make frequent appearances in Lowe’s Black Friday promotions. These items can be pricey, so Black Friday timing can make a big difference for renovation budgets.
Flooring: Laminate, tile, hardwood, and vinyl flooring often see Lowe’s Black Friday deals. If you’re planning to refinish a room, waiting for Black Friday can save you hundreds on materials.
Where to Find Lowe’s Black Friday Deals
This is crucial because knowing where to look saves you time and money.
The Lowes Website: This is my go-to place. Lowes maintains a dedicated Black Friday page with all current deals organized by category. You can filter by department, price range, and even savings percentage. The online deals often go live before in-store promotions, giving you a heads-up on what’s coming.
The Lowes App: If you download the app, you get exclusive mobile-only deals that sometimes beat the website prices. Push notifications tell you when new Lowe’s Black Friday deals drop, so you’re not constantly checking manually.
Email: Sign up for Lowe’s emails, and you’ll get Black Friday deal notifications directly. They usually send multiple emails throughout the promotion period, highlighting rotating deals and weekly specials.
In-Store: Walking into a physical Lowe’s location during Black Friday is an experience. You’ll see signs, displays, and clearance endcaps. The advantage is that you can see products in person and ask employees about deals. The disadvantage is crowds and limited inventory for highly discounted items.
Social Media: Lowe’s promotes major Lowe’s Black Friday deals on Facebook and other platforms. They sometimes announce flash sales or limited-time offers exclusively on social channels.
Price Aggregation Sites: Websites like Honey, RetailMeNot, and Google Shopping let you compare Lowe’s Black Friday prices against other retailers. This is invaluable for making sure you’re actually getting the best deal.
The Best Lowes Black Friday Strategy (That Actually Works)
Here’s what I’ve learned after tracking Lowe’s Black Friday sales for years: having a strategy changes everything.
Start Early (Like, Really Early)
Begin your research in October. I know Black Friday feels like November, but smart shoppers start three months before. Browse Lowe’s site, identify items you need or want, and note their regular prices. When Lowe’s Black Friday deals start appearing, you’ll immediately recognize which ones are genuinely good versus which are marketing hype.
Make a Priority List
Don’t go into Black Friday trying to buy everything. Prioritize three to five items you actually need or genuinely want. Maybe it’s materials for a specific project. Having clear priorities prevents impulse purchases and helps you make better decisions when you’re in the store or browsing online.
Set Price Alerts
Use browser extensions like Honey or CamelCamelCamel (though the latter is Amazon-focused) to track prices on items you’re watching. Some people manually track prices in a spreadsheet. Either way, knowing a product’s price history helps you recognize a real Lowe’s Black Friday deal versus a fake discount.
Check Your Mobile Phone
The Lowes app often has better deals than the website. I’ve seen items priced lower on mobile than on desktop multiple times during Lowe’s Black Friday. It’s worth checking both before you buy.
Know the Clearance Sections
Most Lowe’s stores have clearance areas where overstocked items from regular seasons get marked down. During Lowe’s Black Friday, these sections often get additional discounts. This is where you find the deepest savings, though selection is limited and items vary by location.
Use Your Loyalty Card (or Get One)
Lowes has a loyalty program that gives you exclusive access to deals and the ability to track your purchases. Some Lowe’s Black Friday deals are only available to loyalty members. It’s free to join, and you’d be leaving money on the table by not doing it.
Consider Financing Offers
Lowes often runs special financing promotions during Black Friday, like “12 months special financing on purchases of $400 or more” or “18-month financing on appliances.” If you’re buying a big-ticket item, these can be valuable if you’re confident you can pay it off in the promotional period. Just read the terms carefully; deferred interest charges apply if you don’t pay it off in time.
Lowes Black Friday Red Flags to Avoid
Not everything marked as a deal during Lowe’s Black Friday is actually a good deal. I’ve learned this the hard way.
Doorbusters with Catches
You’ll see advertised deals that sound incredible, like “50% off outdoor furniture” or “$500 off select appliances.” The catch? They’re only available while supplies last, and supplies are usually gone within hours. If you’re counting on getting that doorbuster, you’ll probably be disappointed. These are loss leaders designed to get you into the store, hoping you’ll buy other items.
Price Increases Before Discounts
Here’s a dirty retail secret: some retailers increase prices slightly before Black Friday so they can advertise bigger percentage discounts. For example, a tool might go from $99 to $119 a week before Lowe’s Black Friday, then be discounted to $89 on Black Friday. That’s only a $10 savings, not the impressive 25% discount advertised. Always compare to the regular price, not the inflated pre-Black Friday price.
Low-Quality Versions of Popular Brands
Retailers sometimes create exclusive, slightly inferior versions of popular items specifically for Black Friday. They look similar to the regular version but have fewer features or lower-quality materials. These are harder to spot, so read the model numbers and specifications carefully.
Bundle Deals That Bundle Junk
Some Lowe’s Black Friday deals bundle a great item with something nobody wants, then discount the whole package. You end up paying extra for something you’ll never use. Only buy bundles if you genuinely want everything included.
“Was” Prices That Weren’t Real
When Lowe’s shows a crossed-out “was” price and a lower “now” price, that “was” price should be legitimate. Federal regulations require it to be the actual price the item was offered at recently. Most retailers follow these rules, but it’s worth verifying if a discount seems too good to be true.
Should You Shop Lowe’s Black Friday Online or In-Store?
Honestly? It depends on what you’re buying and what matters to you.
Shop Online If:
- You want to avoid crowds and chaos (completely reasonable, by the way)
- You’re buying small to medium-sized items that ship easily
- You want time to compare prices and read reviews
- You prefer the convenience of shopping from home
- You’re willing to wait a few days for delivery
Shop In-Store If:
- You’re buying large items like appliances (though shipping is available)
- You need expert advice from Lowe’s employees
- You want to see items in person before buying
- You’re looking for clearance items and flash deals
- You can’t wait for delivery
I’ve done both, and I’ll be honest: I prefer shopping on Lowe’s Black Friday online. I can take my time, compare options, avoid impulse purchases, and have items delivered or pick them up when it’s convenient. The in-store experience is faster if you know exactly what you want, but slower if you’re browsing.
One solid middle ground: order online during Lowe’s Black Friday and pick it up in-store. You get the speed of in-store pickup plus the convenience of online browsing. Many Lowe’s Black Friday deals are available for this option.
Lowes Black Friday Price Match and Return Policies
This is something people don’t always think about, but it can save you money.
Lowes has a price-match guarantee that extends through the return period. So if you buy something during Lowe’s Black Friday and the price drops further a week later, Lowe’s will refund you the difference. This is incredibly valuable. I’ve had this happen multiple times. I’ll buy an item on sale, and it gets marked down further. A quick chat with Lowe’s customer service gets me the adjusted price.
Their return policy is also generous. You typically have 90 days to return most items, and 30 days for paint. This means if you buy something during Lowe’s Black Friday and it doesn’t work out, you can return it without much hassle.
The catch? Some clearance items and final-sale items aren’t returnable. Always check the return policy for any item before you buy it, especially if it’s a clearance or Black Friday exclusive.
How to Spot Fake Lowe’s Black Friday Deals
Here’s something I wish someone had told me earlier: not all “deals” are created equal.
A true Lowe’s Black Friday deal should meet these criteria:
It beats the regular price by at least 15%. Anything less isn’t really a deal; it’s just a marketing claim.
The discount is applied to the actual item you want. Not a bundle version, not a cheaper model, the exact item you were planning to buy anyway.
It’s available for a reasonable amount of time. If it’s only available for two hours at 3 AM, it’s not really a deal; it’s a marketing stunt.
Other retailers aren’t selling it cheaper. Just because Lowe’s has a sale doesn’t mean they have the best price. Home Depot, Amazon, or specialty retailers might have better deals on specific items.
You actually need it. This is the most important one. A 40% discount on something you don’t need isn’t a deal; it’s an expense. I’ve learned this lesson too many times in my own shopping experiences.
What Items Are Worth Buying on Lowe’s Black Friday
Based on historical data and my own experience, these categories usually have genuinely good Lowe’s Black Friday deals:
Major Appliances: Refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers. These have the biggest markups, so Black Friday discounts are substantial. The trade-off is that they’re heavy, and installation can be complicated.
Power Tool Sets: Complete cordless tool sets, combo packs, and drill/driver combinations. Perfect if you’re building a tool collection or upgrading equipment.
Seasonal Items: Heaters, fans, air conditioners. When the season is ending, Lowe’s marks these down heavily during Lowe’s Black Friday.
Outdoor Furniture and Grills: Patio furniture, gas grills, fire pits. These are bulky, so retailers want to clear inventory before next season.
Water Heaters and HVAC Equipment: These are expensive normally, so Black Friday discounts save hundreds of dollars.
Lighting and Ceiling Fans: Good margins mean good Black Friday discounts. Plus, these are easier to install than major appliances.
What Items to Skip on Lowe’s Black Friday
Not everything is worth buying on sale. Some items have such thin margins that Black Friday discounts aren’t impressive.
Paint: Lowe’s doesn’t usually discount paint much. If they do, it’s 10-15%, which isn’t worth planning a shopping trip around. Unless you need a specific color or want to stockpile, skip this during Lowe’s Black Friday.
Basic Hardware: Nails, screws, nuts, bolts. These have high markups, but people only buy them once every few years. The modest discounts aren’t compelling enough to make special trips.
Small Accessories: Picture frames, hooks, storage containers. The discounts are often just 10-20%, making the dollar savings small.
Items on Clearance Year-Round: Lowe’s always has some items on clearance. They might seem like better deals during Lowe’s Black Friday, but clearance prices don’t actually change much. You’re not getting a special deal.
Real Lowe’s Black Friday Savings: What You Can Actually Expect
Let me be realistic about what Lowe’s Black Friday actually saves you.
On major appliances, you can expect 15-25% discounts. A $1,200 refrigerator might drop to $900-1,020. These are meaningful savings that justify the purchase.
On power tools, discounts range from 20-40%. A $200 drill set might drop to $120-160. Again, substantial enough to make a difference.
On building materials, discounts are typically 10-20%. Lumber prices might drop slightly, but the biggest savings come from bulk purchase discounts.
On smaller items, expect 15-30% discounts. A $40 fan might drop to $28-34. Not life-changing, but nice.
The key insight is that Lowe’s Black Friday savings are real, but they’re not miraculous. You’re not going to find a $1,000 item for $200. You’re going to find reasonable prices on quality products that you probably needed anyway. And that’s actually valuable.
Pro Tips From Experienced Lowe’s Black Friday Shoppers
After talking to dozens of people who shop at Lowe’s on Black Friday seriously, I’ve picked up some valuable tips:
Shop Early Morning or Late Evening: If you’re going in-store, avoiding peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM) means shorter lines, calmer crowds, and better access to deals.
Check Inventory Online Before Going: Use the Lowe’s website to check if items are in stock at your local store. Nothing’s worse than driving to find out they’re out of stock.
Stack Discounts When Possible: Some Lowe’s Black Friday deals can be combined with coupons, loyalty member offers, or financing deals. Read the terms carefully, but when stacking is allowed, it’s incredibly valuable.
Ask About Rain Checks: If an item is out of stock during Lowe’s Black Friday, ask about a rain check. You might be able to get the Black Friday price even after the sale ends (though this depends on the specific item and Lowe’s policies).
Bring Your List: Walking into a store without a list during Black Friday is dangerous. You’ll get distracted, see deals you don’t need, and end up overspending. Write down exactly what you want before you go.
Use Lowe’s Services: If you’re buying materials for a project, Lowe’s offers services like kitchen design, bathroom planning, and installation help. These can be incredibly valuable when planning a big renovation.
Lowes Black Friday vs. The Competition
How does Lowe’s Black Friday actually compare to Home Depot, Amazon, and other retailers?
Home Depot: Home Depot’s Black Friday deals are comparable to Lowe’s, though they emphasize different items. Home Depot tends to have better deals on certain brands and tool categories. Lowes tends to compete harder on appliances. Neither is consistently better; it depends on what you’re buying.
Amazon: Amazon’s Black Friday deals are often competitive, especially for small items. However, major appliances and building materials tend to be cheaper at Lowe’s and Home Depot because of their distribution infrastructure.
Specialty Retailers: For specific categories like tools or lighting, specialty retailers might beat Lowe’s on certain items. But Lowe’s variety is hard to beat.
The smart approach is to compare prices across retailers for specific items you want. Don’t assume Lowe’s is automatically the cheapest just because they’re running a Lowe’s Black Friday sale.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lowe’s Black Friday
Q: When does Lowe’s Black Friday start? A: Typically, in early November, though early access deals start even earlier. The sale event usually runs through late November or early December.
Q: Can I use coupons during Lowe’s Black Friday? A: It depends on the coupon and the item. Some Lowe’s Black Friday deals exclude coupons, while others allow them. Check the specific terms for each deal.
Q: Does Lowe’s offer Black Friday deals online? A: Yes, and sometimes online-exclusive deals are better than in-store deals. The Lowes website and app both have dedicated Black Friday sections.
Q: Is there a Lowe’s Black Friday sale in 2024? A: Yes, Lowe’s runs Black Friday sales annually. Check their website in October for announcements about 2024-specific dates and deals.
Q: Can I return Lowe’s Black Friday purchases? A: Yes, most items have a 90-day return window. Some clearance and final-sale items cannot be returned, so check before buying.
Q: Does Lowe’s offer Cyber Monday deals? A: Yes, Lowe’s typically extends deals through Cyber Monday and sometimes beyond. Online deals often continue longer than in-store promotions.
Q: How do I get Lowe’s Black Friday notifications? A: Download the app, sign up for emails, or create a Lowe’s account to enable notifications. You can also follow them on social media.
Q: Are Lowe’s Black Friday prices negotiable? A: No, prices are fixed. However, you can ask about financing options, delivery costs, or installation discounts.
Q: Can I hold items during Lowe’s Black Friday? A: Policies vary by location and item. Call your local store to ask about holding items during the sale.
Final Thoughts: Making Lowe’s Black Friday Work for You
Here’s what I want you to take away from this: Lowe’s Black Friday deals are real, valuable, and worth planning for. But they’re only valuable if you’re buying things you actually need.
The best Lowe’s Black Friday shoppers are the ones with a plan. They don’t get swept up in the excitement of “deals.” They stay focused on value.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast planning your dream workshop, a homeowner tackling a renovation project, or someone just looking to upgrade their home, Lowe’s Black Friday allows you to save hundreds of dollars. Use this guide, make your list, and go in with purpose.
The Lowes Black Friday sales aren’t going anywhere. They happen every year, and they’ll continue to offer genuine savings on quality products. This year, be the shopper who actually benefits from them.
What’s on your Lowe’s Black Friday shopping list? Whether it’s tools, appliances, or materials for a project, having a clear plan means you’ll maximize your savings and minimize regrets. Happy shopping!
Key Takeaways
- Lowes Black Friday sales run for multiple weeks starting in early November, not just one day. Starting your research early gives you an advantage.
- The best Lowe’s Black Friday deals are on major appliances, power tools, seasonal items, and larger purchases where discounts represent significant dollar savings.
- Shopping online often beats in-store shopping for Lowe’s Black Friday, giving you time to compare prices and avoid impulse purchases.
- Not all “deals” are worth buying. Focus on items you actually need and verify that Black Friday prices genuinely beat regular prices.
- Create a priority list, check inventory before shopping, use loyalty programs, and stack discounts when possible to maximize your Lowe’s Black Friday savings.
- Price-match guarantees and generous return policies make Lowe’s Black Friday even more valuable. You can always get better pricing later if items drop further.
- Compare Lowe’s Black Friday deals to other retailers like Home Depot and Amazon to ensure you’re actually getting the best price for what you want.
