Many of us have taken to DIY during lockdown, but one in 10 Brits have never attempted DIY before, new research shows.
Major home retailers have reopened stores in some capacity across the UK, and although restrictions still apply on some DIY products, home improvers now have greater access to DIY materials than they have had since Covid-19 lockdown began.
A survey of 2,000 homeowners by comparethemarket assessed their DIY plans during and after Covid-19 lockdown, and which tasks they were preparing for.
Around two-thirds (74%) of households planned to carry out or have already performed some DIY during lockdown. While 10% admitted to never performing DIY before, around 11% said they would consider themselves DIY experts.
(MORE: The Most Cost-Effective Home Improvements to Plan While on Lockdown)
The most popular DIY task was painting walls and ceilings. which 35% said they were planning to do.
The most popular DIY tasks, via comparethemarket, are:
| DIY task |
Percentage of households planning DIY |
| Wall or ceiling painting |
35% |
| Putting up pictures |
24% |
| Putting up shelves |
14% |
| Putting up or removing wallpaper |
14% |
| Bleeding a radiator |
11% |
| Grouting tiles |
8% |
| Fixing leaking taps/ showers |
8% |
| Unblocking a toilet or sink |
8% |
| Cleaning or fixing the washing machine or dishwasher |
8% |
| Fitting a carpet |
6% |
| Hanging a door |
5% |
Ensure You’re Insured
Comparethemarket has warned aspiring home improvers, however, to ensure that they have the relevant insurance in place before performing DIY tasks.
Chris King, head of home insurance at comparethemarket, said: “Depending on the work you want to carry out, you may need protection under both contents and buildings insurance, in the event that something goes awry. Moreover, some providers may not cover more complex repairs, such as plumbing and electrical work, if it has not been carried out by a professional.
“Seemingly straightforward household repairs go amiss more often than people may realise. As such, it is essential that you check the terms and conditions of your home insurance policy before undertaking any renovations.”
Moreover, homeowners should apply caution when they are not well educated in completing a DIY task, and know what to leave to the professionals.