Have you ever found yourself staring at that blank wall in your living room, thinking, "I could totally spruce this up," or maybe pondering how a touch of paint could transform your drab bedroom into a cozy sanctuary? Well, you're not alone!
In this blog post, we're diving headfirst into the exciting world of DIY (do it yourself) and home improvement projects. We'll explore why so many consumers are rolling up their sleeves, grabbing their toolkits, and embarking on creative journeys right in the heart of their homes.
We have asked 1000 people in the US all about their recent projects and how they get them done and we’ll go over the results of our Appinio Hype Tracker Report.
- Changing Landscape
Home improvement and DIY projects in the US have seen a significant boost, driven by the pandemic, remote work, and a desire for more functional and pleasant living spaces. Despite economic challenges, consumers are investing in their homes.- DIY Motivation
Americans are taking on DIY projects primarily for maintenance and repairs, the sense of accomplishment, and cost savings. This shift is not just about necessity but also about personal satisfaction and financial prudence.- Inspiration and Shopping Trends
Social media is a dominant source of DIY inspiration, particularly platforms like YouTube and Instagram, while friends and family's homes and TV shows continue to play a significant role. In terms of shopping, home improvement stores, online retailers, and local hardware shops are popular choices. Durability, quality and price are key in purchasing decisions.
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Homeowners’ behavior has changed significantly in the past few years.
The pandemic gave rise to a huge boom in home improvement and DIY projects. Americans were forced to spend more time in their home, including working remotely, therefore they started upgrading their space making it more pleasant but also more functional. Statista reveals that the total US home improvement expenditure amounted to 457 billion US dollars only in 2020 and the projected home improvement sales in 2025 will amount to 612.3 billion US dollars.
So, was COVID the only push for DIY and home improvement projects?
Certainly not, there are plenty of reasons why we can't resist the siren call of DIY:
Cost savings: Let's face it; moving houses or hiring home improvement contractors can be seriously expensive, that is why 46% DIY where possible and save a pretty penny by doing things themselves. Even if 71% of Americans had to stop their DIY projects in their tracks due to soaring inflation rates.
Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of the home improvement projects! We're about to take a tour of some seriously cool and common DIY projects and home additions. From simple hacks to ambitious undertakings, there's something for everyone to sink their teeth into.
There’s also an environmentally conscious side of DIY and home improvement. It's not just about enhancing your space; it's about doing it in a way that's sustainable and eco-friendly.
When it comes to being eco-friendly at home, one of the first things consumers do is improve their energy efficiency.
DIYers are playing a pivotal role in energy conservation. The numbers show a growing interest in projects that focus on boosting energy efficiency. From installing energy-efficient appliances to improving insulation and incorporating solar panels, these initiatives not only save money but also reduce carbon footprints.
Reducing or minimizing waste is another way of working towards a more sustainable home, repurposing or recycling old furniture, or starting composting.
Furthermore, many (47%) US DIY enthusiasts think of opting for environmentally friendly building materials, such as reclaimed wood, bamboo, and recycled metal when buying DIY supplies.
When it comes to sourcing DIY gear and supplies in the US, Americans have a variety of options at their disposal.
Where consumers buy DIY supplies according to the Appinio Hype Tracker Report data:
Interestingly, there's a generational shift in shopping preferences. Older respondents tend to frequent home improvement stores, while the younger crowd leans towards craft stores.
Regardless of where they shop, durability, quality, and price stand out as the top factors influencing purchasing decisions, with 88% of respondents emphasizing the importance of durability of their DIY supplies, while 87% value their quality, price is important for 81% of American DIY-ers. These factors collectively guide the choices of US DIY enthusiasts as they embark on their creative projects, ensuring that they get the best value for their efforts.
When it comes to sparking their DIY creativity, Americans have a diverse array of sources that serve as wellsprings of inspiration.
The impact of social media on DIY inspiration is especially pronounced, with 73% of users following home improvement project accounts on platforms like Instagram, where they can access a constant flow of innovative ideas.
In fact, 67% of those who seek DIY inspiration on social media have actively tried replicating home improvement projects they've discovered, highlighting the influential role of online content in motivating real-world action.
Moreover, over one in two (53%) of Americans who use social media for DIY inspiration have purchased DIY items based on recommendations from social media or online reviews. This highlights the powerful combination of visual inspiration and user-generated recommendations in shaping DIY endeavors, as Americans navigate the world of home improvement with a wealth of virtual resources at their fingertips.
The DIY space is constantly evolving, and new trends are emerging to inspire and challenge DIY enthusiasts across the US.
These new DIY trends aren't just about aesthetics; they represent a shift towards more sustainable, versatile, and enjoyable living spaces. As DIY enthusiasts explore these trends, they're not just remodeling their homes; they're reshaping the way they live.
The world of DIY and home improvement in the US is more vibrant and dynamic than ever. From revamping spaces with brightly coloured feature walls to embracing sustainable and eco-friendly practices, Americans are redefining their living environments. New trends reflect a desire for versatile and enjoyable living spaces.
DIY is not just about home remodeling; it's about reimagining the way we live