Gardens and outdoor areas are most likely to be left in limbo, followed by the kitchen or bedrooms, as seven in 10 are in the middle of some kind of DIY job
More than six in 10 homeowners claim their homes are a ‘work in progress’ that will take them another four years to finish. Seven in ten are currently in the middle of some form of DIY project, with gardens and outdoor spaces topping the list of areas that have been left unfinished, followed by kitchens and bedrooms.
Unfinished tasks indoors range from unpainted ceilings and walls marred by cracks or holes, to peeling wallpaper. While a fifth of homes fall short due to missing skirting boards or coving. Among those with unfinished jobs, they blame a lack of time, insufficient funds, and little motivation.
Simon Ribchester, head of design at home renovation firm Beams, which commissioned the study, said: “Do you know anyone whose home is truly ‘finished’?
“It’s quite a rarity, and usually by the time you’re putting the finishing touches to one room, the first one you renovated looks like it needs attention again.”
The research revealed that 65 percent of participants feel somewhat or very frustrated by small or unfinished tasks around the house. With half saying it negatively affects their mood.
Four in ten of those who have spruced up their homes have splashed out more than anticipated in the past two years.
On average, these home improvers have shelled out an extra £3,226 beyond their initial budgets.
Small fixes have added up to more than they were expecting, or they have to pay extra to re-do something that had gone wrong.
A third have also wasted materials or supplies for home renovations or improvements after changing their plans.
Ribchester added: “Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, the best approach is to always plan thoroughly, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
“When in doubt, calling in a professional could save you more than just money – it could save you a massive headache later on.”
