DIY Statistics and the Home Improvement Industry

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With the availability of online resources, easy-to-use software, and access to data, DIY has become a popular market in the home improvement industry.

But to tap into the DIY market successfully, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of its demographics and the various factors that drive the behaviors and purchasing decisions of its different groups. 

To delve deeper into this group of home improvement product buyers, here are key DIY statistics you should know: 

Home Improvement Statistics And Trends

In this section, we will explore the different segments within the DIY market and examine the key drivers of consumer behavior, such as age, income, lifestyle, and preferences. 

By examining these factors, you can gain insights into how to effectively reach and engage with DIY customers and tailor our marketing strategies to better meet their needs and preferences.

3 out of 4 DIYers Utilize Home Improvement Store Websites for Research

The internet has transformed the way homeowners approach home improvement projects. With an abundance of information and resources available online, homeowners are increasingly turning to the internet for research and inspiration. 

person using laptop

According to a survey conducted by the Home Improvement Research Institute in 2021, about 77% of DIYers reported using home improvement store websites for research.

This finding indicates that home improvement store websites are an essential resource for DIY enthusiasts. These websites offer a wide range of information, including product specifications, customer reviews, and project ideas. 

Additionally, they allow homeowners to compare prices, find deals, and make purchases online.

Millennial DIYers At 73%

Millennials, also known as Generation Y, are individuals born between the years of 1981 and 1996. 

They are a demographic cohort that has been the subject of extensive research due to their unique characteristics and behaviors. One area where Millennials stand out is their interest in DIY activities.

spraying flex seal on woodworking project

According to a survey conducted by The Home Depot in 2020, about 73 percent of Millennials consider themselves to be DIYers. This is a significant increase from previous generations, with only 52 percent of Baby Boomers identifying as DIYers. 

This trend can be attributed to several factors, including the rise of social media and online tutorials, the desire for cost-saving measures, and a preference for customizing their living spaces.

The survey also revealed that Millennials are more likely to tackle a wide range of DIY projects, including home repairs, kitchen cabinets remodeling or renovations, and decor updates. 

Additionally, they are more likely to use social media and online resources to research and plan their projects, with 75 percent of respondents stating that they use YouTube for DIY inspiration and guidance.

Also Read: Empire Today vs Home Depot Prices

75% of Homeowners Engage in DIY Projects

The DIY trend in home improvement is growing, with an increasing number of homeowners opting to take on projects themselves rather than hiring professionals. 

See Also: How Digital Collectibles Are Inspiring DIY Projects?

recycling wood scraps for DIY projects

According to a survey conducted by Porch in 2021, about 3 in 4 homeowners in the United States (76%) reported having completed at least one DIY home improvement project in the past year. 

This trend has been influenced by several factors, including the availability of online resources, easy-to-use tools and materials, and the desire for cost-saving measures. The survey revealed that the most common DIY projects undertaken by homeowners are painting, landscaping, and flooring installation. 

However, there has also been an increase in more complex projects, such as plumbing and electrical work, with about 33% of homeowners attempting these types of projects themselves.

Half of DIYers are Taking on Exterior Home Improvement Projects

Exterior home improvement projects can be some of the most challenging and time-consuming tasks for homeowners to undertake. These projects can include tasks such as landscaping, roofing, siding, and window installation, and they often require a significant investment of time and money.

According to a survey conducted by the Home Improvement Research Institute in 2021, about 50% of DIYers reported handling exterior home improvement projects. This finding indicates that homeowners are willing to take on challenging and complex projects in order to improve the appearance and functionality of their homes.

DIY Pergola

The survey also revealed that the most common exterior home improvement projects undertaken by DIYers are landscaping and gardening, followed by painting and staining, roofing, and deck or patio installation. 

However, it is important to note that exterior home improvement projects can be particularly dangerous, as they often involve working at heights and using power tools and heavy equipment. 

Therefore, it is crucial for homeowners to prioritize safety when undertaking these types of projects and to seek professional help if needed.

Nearly 1 in 7 DIYers Abstain from Purchasing When Their Desired Product is Unavailable

The availability of products and materials is a crucial factor in the success of DIY home improvement projects. 

A survey conducted by the Home Improvement Research Institute in 2021 found that nearly 14% of DIYers chose to abstain from purchasing when their desired product is unavailable.

woodworking projects with laser cutter

This finding indicates that the availability of products can be a significant factor in the purchasing decisions of DIY enthusiasts. When a particular product or material is not available, homeowners may choose to delay their project, substitute a different product, or abandon the project altogether.

The survey also revealed that the most common products that DIYers reported having difficulty finding are lumber, plumbing supplies, and electrical supplies. This highlights the importance of companies ensuring that their supply chains are robust and that they are able to meet the demands of the DIY market.

The Home and Building Product Market for Consumers is Expected to Increase by Around 2.3% Between 2023 and 2025

The home and building products industry is expected to experience steady growth in the coming years, according to a report by the Freedonia Group. The report projects that the consumer market for home and building products will grow by approximately 2.3% from 2023 to 2025.

This growth is expected to be driven by several factors, including an increase in new construction and renovation activity, rising demand for energy-efficient products and materials, and a growing trend towards DIY home improvement projects.

woodworker using a hand plane

The report also highlights several key trends in the home and building products industry, including the importance of sustainability and eco-friendliness, the growing role of technology and innovation, and the increasing demand for connected and smart home products.

More than 50% of Millennial DIY Enthusiasts Rely on YouTube for Home Improvement Guidance

YouTube has become a go-to resource for DIY enthusiasts, particularly among Millennials. A survey conducted by The Home Depot in 2020 found that 55% of Millennial DIYers reported using YouTube for home improvement information.

This trend can be attributed to several factors, including the vast amount of content available on the platform, the convenience of being able to watch videos from anywhere, and the ability to pause, rewind, and replay content as needed.

The trend of Millennial DIYers turning to YouTube for home improvement information has significant implications for the home improvement industry. Companies must adapt their marketing strategies to meet the needs of these digitally-savvy consumers. 

making a wooden vase

By creating high-quality video content and partnering with YouTube influencers, companies can engage with Millennials and build brand loyalty. 

Additionally, companies must ensure that their products and services are well-represented on YouTube and other social media platforms, as Millennials are increasingly turning to these channels for their home improvement needs.

About Two-Thirds of Gen Y DIYers Prefer In-Store Purchases for Home Improvement

The survey conducted by the Home Depot in 2020 found that approximately 64% of Gen Y DIYers reported purchasing their home improvement products in-store rather than online. 

This finding is significant because it indicates that despite the rise of e-commerce, many DIY enthusiasts still prefer the in-store shopping experience.

There are several reasons why DIYers may prefer in-store purchases. One reason is the ability to see and touch the products before buying, which can be especially important for home improvement projects where the quality and durability of materials matter. 

inside home depot store

Additionally, in-store shopping provides an opportunity to ask questions and receive expert advice from store associates.

As Many as 1 in 5 DIYers Experiment with New Brands

DIY enthusiasts are an adventurous and experimental group when it comes to trying out new brands and products. According to a survey conducted by the Home Improvement Research Institute in 2021, up to 20% of DIYers reported trying out new brands for their home improvement projects.

This finding indicates that many DIYers are willing to take a chance on unfamiliar brands in order to find the best products for their needs. 

This trend may be driven by several factors, including a desire to try new and innovative products, a preference for niche or specialty brands, and a willingness to take risks in order to achieve the desired outcome.

Email is the Preferred Communication Method for 4 out of 10 DIYers

Communication is a critical component of the home improvement process, and DIY enthusiasts have specific preferences when it comes to how they want to communicate with companies. 

DIY desk riser

According to a survey conducted by the Home Improvement Research Institute in 2021, about 40% of DIYers reported email as their preferred communication method.

One of the advantages of email communication is the ability to offer a written record of the conversation, which can be particularly useful for customers who need to refer back to information or details at a later time [1]. 

Additionally, email allows customers to communicate on their own schedule, which is especially important for busy homeowners who may not have time for phone calls or in-person visits.

Another advantage of email communication is the ability to provide customers with updates on their orders and share promotional offers and discounts. By leveraging email as a marketing tool, companies can increase engagement with DIY enthusiasts and drive sales and revenue.

Read Also: States Ranking In the DIY Culture

Conclusion

The trend toward DIY home improvement projects can have both positive and negative effects, and its impact depends on several factors. While DIY projects can save homeowners money and provide a sense of satisfaction, they also carry risks and can be time-consuming. 

Homeowners should carefully weigh the pros and cons before embarking on DIY projects, and professionals in the home improvement industry should adapt their strategies to meet changing consumer preferences while maintaining high standards of safety and quality. 

Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. He has since built an enviable workshop for himself and an equally impressive online accomplishment: an extensive resource site serving old timers and novices alike.
Robert Johnson
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