A few weeks I ago I found myself at the Ferretería (Hardware shop) wanting to buy a saddle clamp to temporarily fix the shower hose in place so we could have a hands free shower.
The problem was when I arrived at the Ferretería I realized that I didn't know how to ask for a saddle clamp. Hmm, sometimes it can be so frustrating knowing what you want in your own language but not in Spanish.
In any given situation if I don't know the name of an item I do a lap of the shop first and hope like hell it's down one of the aisles. Having said that, every Ferretería that I've been to has stocked different items. Rule of thumb, if you can't find what you're looking for it's either out the back or they don't stock the item.
Asking for help isn't that scary, just remember the assistant probably can't speak or understand English, so you are both in the same boat. I find we end up playing a game of charades in trying to communicate with one another. If you have no luck explaining yourself try and draw the item for them.
In my experience I have found the Spaniards to be very forgiving and patient in trying to assist you. Most of the time I leave the store with the paid item, or have been given directions to another Ferretería who stocks the item.
The best advice I can give to expats who live in Spain is to carry a pocket dictionary with you or do your homework the night before and make a list before heading off to the Ferretería.
The next time you're wanting to go to the Ferretería and your Spanish phrase book is useless here are a few phrases that might help you renovate your house a little faster.
I don't know if you'll understand
No sé si me va a entender
I need to buy 10mm washers
Tengo que comprar arandelas de 10mm
How much is it?
¿Cuánto es?
I would like to buy a well balanced hammer
Quisiera comprar in bien equilibrado martillo
Do you cut keys?
¿Se cortan las llaves?
Can you make me a copy of this key?
¿Me hace una copia de esta llave?
Do you sell material shower curtains?
¿Se vende material de las cortinas de ducha?
My toilet is blocked and I need to buy a plunger
Mi baño se bloquea y tengo que comprar un émbolo
I am painting the bathroom tomorrow. Can you recommend a paint for wet areas?
Estoy pintado mi cuarto de baño mañana. ¿Me puede recomendar una pintura de las zonas húmedas?
I think that's it
Creo que eso es todo.
Gabe said,
Friday, January 23. 2009 at 00:17 (Reply)
cheap accommodation malaga said,
Wednesday, January 28. 2009 at 17:02 (Reply)
I would like to buy a well balanced hammer
Quisiera comprar un martillo bien equilibrado
I am painting the bathroom tomorrow. Can you recommend a paint for wet areas?
Mañana voy a pintar mi cuarto de baño. ¿Me puede recomendar una pintura para zonas húmedas?