Home improvements plans for many have been on hold for months during the pandemic.
Both properties and gardens have not enjoyed normal levels of care and attention since the start of the coronavirus crisis. Now a study by Checkatrade has found that 83 per cent of householders are planning a home refresh over the next 12 months.
Findings from Checkatrade’s Home Pride Index report, found redecorating a living room, bedroom or bathroom, was the most popular plan (30%), followed by a garden revamp (23%).
The study also reveals that eco upgrades are on the agenda, with one fifth (19%) of those polled keen to make environmentally friendly improvements like installing insulation or solar panels.
Meanwhile, when it comes to home inspiration, most homeowners are influenced by TV shows (21%) and magazines (19%). While social media was also cited by many as a source of inspiration, including Pinterest (12%), Instagram (11%), and Facebook (9%).
Checkatrade’s research also revealed that the most popular reasons for starting a home interiors/renovation social media account were to share advice and recommendations with others (40%), to give themselves something to do during lockdown (35%) and to inspire others (34%).
Mike Fairman, chief executive of Checkatrade, said: “The past year has inspired many of us to invest in our homes and as a result, we’re seeing incredible demand as homeowners seek to make their dreams a reality.
"In fact, contacts to our Checkatrade members were up 154% year-on-year this past March, so we are not surprised to find that eight in 10 people are planning to refresh their homes over the next 12 months.
‘ ’No matter where your inspiration may come from, when planning your next home project, make sure you use a reputable and checked professional to help bring those ideas to life.’’
Renovations planned by property owners:
- Redecoration of living room/bedroom/bathroom – 30%
- Garden revamp – 23%
- Replacing flooring – 22%
- A new kitchen – 19%
- Replacing windows – 15%
- New external doors – 13%
- Building a shed – 10%
- Knocking walls through/building walls – 8%
- Installing a conservatory – 7%
- Creating a home office – 6%
