Millennials Tackling Basic DIY

Millennials might have a reputation for being glued to their smartphones, but despite many older Brits believing that they’re hopeless when it comes to practical tasks new research has shown otherwise.

In fact, those aged 18 to 34 are using technology to their advantage, with 49 per cent of those surveyed by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) revealing that they’ve watched a DIY ‘how-to’ video online.

The FMB survey highlighted the top ten tasks that millennials have tackled around the home, with defrosting the freezer in at number one, while 66 per cent have hung a picture or frame on a wall, and 63 per cent have assembled flat-pack furniture.

Over half of those questioned have also hung curtains and painted a wall or piece of furniture, while 44 per cent have bled a radiator and 43 per cent have changed a fuse in a plug.

Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB, commented: “It’s particularly impressive that half of young people have been proactive enough to watch a DIY ‘how-to’ online video rather than waiting for someone they know to show them or complete the task on their behalf.”

However, if you’re carrying out some home improvements – such as fitting new garden gates in Yorkshire – make sure you properly budget for the work.

The Mirror recently highlighted research by Direct Line Home Insurance, which found that homeowners often underestimate the cost of renovations, with households overspending by an average of £7,427 each.

Among those moving into a new home, the kitchen was cited as the most popular room to renovate first, with nearly one-third of buyers stating they’d start here.