Younger homeowners may be less handy with a hammer than their parents but they’re far more likely to finish what they start new research from Nationwide Building Society suggests.
The survey of more than 2,000 adults found that while many Britons believe traditional DIY skills are in decline, Generation Z and Millennials are proving more determined than older generations to see projects through to completion.
Britain’s largest building society commissioned the study as part of its ongoing look at homeownership trends, particularly among first-time buyers – a group to which it lent more than any other lender last year.
Three in ten adults believe younger generations are losing their practical skills – a view most strongly held by Baby Boomers, 40% of whom said DIY knowledge has not been passed down.
FADING KNOWHOW
Even Gen Z share that concern, with 41% admitting their skills are limited. Millennials are more confident: only one in five believe their handywork has declined.
Respondents cited a lack of inter-generational teaching (40%) and the declining focus on practical education as key reasons for the skills gap, while others pointed to the ease of hiring professionals.
When it comes to perseverance, however, younger generations lead the way. Gen Z say their unfinished projects linger for around three to four months on average – roughly half the national average of just over seven months. Millennials take six months, Gen X more than ten, and Boomers almost eleven.
SPENDING MORE
Despite their inexperience, younger homeowners are investing more in DIY: Millennials spent £1,123 on average over the past year and Gen Z £1,014, compared with £794 for Gen X and £444 for Baby Boomers.
Nationwide says the lower outlay among older generations likely reflects a lifetime’s accumulation of tools and experience.
When tackling jobs, YouTube has overtaken the instruction manual as the top source of guidance, used by 46% of respondents. Almost a third still turn to family for advice, while Gen Z are just as likely to use TikTok and Millennials favour Facebook and Instagram for practical tips.
Carlo Pileggi, Nationwide’s head of mortgage products, says: “DIY skills may not be passed down as they once were, but younger homeowners are showing real determination.
“Forget dusty manuals – today’s how-to comes from TikTok hacks and YouTube tutorials.”
