As LBM dealers continue to adjust to challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, Home Depot and Lowe’s big box stores have joined the growing number of retailers requiring customers to wear masks inside stores.
Home Depot announced on Friday that shoppers will be required to wear a mask or facial covering while inside all U.S. stores as of July 22. A press release from Home Depot says there are exceptions for small children and anyone with a valid medical condition that would prohibit the wearing of a mask.
Already, 85% of Home Depot stores had required masks to meet state and local regulations, the company says.
Also on Friday, Lowe’s announced that it is adopting a nationwide standard for all customers to wear masks. The Lowe’s policy goes into effect July 20. Lowe’s will offer free masks at the customer service desk of every store for customers who need them, while supplies last.
Lowe’s has required associates to face coverings since May, the company said in a press release. Like Home Depot, many Lowe’s locations operate where state and local authorities have already required customers to wear masks.