Homeowners 'turn to DIY' to improve wellbeing under lockdown

Odd jobs around the house make people feel calmer, according to poll

(Getty)

Homeowners are turning to DIY to improve their wellbeing, saying that working with their hands leaves them feeling calmer, a poll has claimed.

A poll of 2,000 adults found almost three-quarters enjoyed the mental boost they got from completing home improvements.

One in 10 were left feeling less stressed, while 15 per cent said they were "calmer" after completing a DIY task in their home.

It was also found that the lockdown had been a driver for many to tackle jobs around the house, as being there more than ever meant they noticed more that needed doing.

The research, commissioned by Ronseal, found doing DIY had helped more than two-thirds of respondents combat boredom, while another one in three said it meant they would have something to show for their time.

Painting was the most popular task over the last few weeks, with 31 per cent giving their walls a fresh coat, 23 per cent painting their fences up and 17 per cent making over their garden furniture.

Rob Green, from Ronseal, said: “A lack of time and knowledge can make DIY a daunting prospect, and as a result, many simply put off the little jobs that need doing, even though most will be a simple fix.

“But after a while, you become so used to seeing the problems around the home that you don't even notice them anymore - especially when you are busy going in and out all of the time."

The poll also found more than half had taken on DIY jobs during lockdown, completing an average of four although they also had the same number of tasks outstanding.

Before lockdown, a lack of motivation, time and confidence were among the biggest barriers to completing home improvements.

But 57 per cent of those polled, via OnePoll, admitted they now had "no excuse" not to take on the jobs.

The study, by Ronseal which is partnered with the UK Men's Sheds Association, found that 74 per cent said staying on top of DIY was good for their wellbeing.

The UK Men’s Sheds Association provides safe spaces across the country for many, including socially isolated people, to meet, share good times, learn and refine DIY and other practical skills together.

SWNS