Delta Faucets

Looking for a clear answer on this, and I know many of you guys are pro's.
As mentioned in a previous post, we are remodeling a bathroom and I have decided on a Delta tub/shower set and a lav set. We are purchasing the materials from a very well regarded supply house. They have been very fair with pricing, EXCEPT when it comes to the tub and lav set.

I can order what SEEMS to be the exact same set at HD for $85 less than at the supply house. When I asked about the price difference and if they could get close to the HD price, they said "no way". They explained the HD units will look the same but have different internals, and the HD units will be of inferior quality to make the price point.

The supply house bid the following:
Delta Lahara tub/shower T174438-SS $148.56
Delta Lahara wide spread lav set 3538-SSMPU-DST $219.63


The HD products are pictured below:





The supply house added a #7 in the tub/shower part number, however I think that is a typo.

What are your thoughts??

 

I’ve asked this same question to some of my veteran plumbers. They told me that some of the Home Depot products will use cheaper parts than the supply house. Like plastic versus copper or metal. I know sometimes big retailers are getting huge price breaks on things since they order large quantities. For what it’s worth I would let the plumber handle the parts so the install and parts are covered by the plumber. You may save a few dollars getting them yourself but if something goes wrong he will likely have you call wherever you bought it from.

 

Also I highly recommend Moen! They warranty their stuff for life and replacement parts are a lot cheaper.

 

For the tub, the kit you listed is only the trim kit. You'll need to spend more to get the valve to complete it.

Can't say the same for the faucet, but I will say that I have found there is a difference in the internal parts. Whether that is the difference between supply houses and big box stores I don't know but they do typically have a couple different cartridges listed.

 

Yes, sorry, I'm clear on that part....the rough-in is a separate purchase at both HD and the supply house, and they are within 5 bucks of one another on that.

 

I'm in Indiana....squarely in Delta country. I agree that Moen is good stuff, but I'll stick with Delta. Btw, Delta is warrantied for life as well. Finish as well as mechanical. No questions asked (other than model name or number).