DIY Wish List: Function Trumps Form

Alina Zingleman

11 years ago

Article From HouseLogic.com: By: Lisa Kaplan Gordon: Published: August 01, 2013

A new study examines which outdoor projects DIYers would love to do . . . but probably won’t. We look at DIY projects where function trumps form.

When it comes to picking outdoor DIY projects, we found it interesting that homeowners opt for functionality over form — and even finances, according to a new survey of U.S. homeowners. That’s music to our pragmatic ears.

By a wide margin, homeowners say they prefer functional projects (57%) over those that just look good (28.3%) or have financial value (14.7%). But just because DIYers desire a project, that doesn’t mean they’re going to strap on a tool belt and actually do it. The survey also reveals the most-wanted projects a DIYer is least likely to do: High-skill/high-effort projects, like building a deck or privacy fence, probably will never make it off the DIYer’s wish list. The most-desirable projects promise to make outdoor time more fun; but the ones homeowners probably will do are the easiest, like planting a garden or spreading around some landscaping pebbles.

Take a look at these numbers crunched by the Home Projects Council, a group of home improvement experts that sponsored the online survey of 1,278 homeowners planning outdoor home improvement projects in 2013.

Top-5 Desirable Outdoor Projects: Function Trumps Form

1. Plant a garden
2. Landscaping with pebbles, stones, or rocks
3. Build a deck
4. Create a fire or BBQ pit
5. Build a patio or walkway with pavers or bricks

1. Plant a garden (49.1%):

Anyone with a shovel and some seeds can try this project, though it’ll take some experience to grow temperamental veggies, like tomatoes.

2. Landscaping with pebbles, stones, or rocks (28.3%):

Attractive landscaping adds value to your home by boosting curb appeal. And it doesn’t take much effort to spread pea gravel in garden paths to add color and texture. Tip: Edge your path to keep the gravel from spreading.

3. Build a deck (22.8%):

A deck is a great way to create outdoor living space, especially when your yard is sloped. Deck maintenance is easy, too: A coat of sealer will keep it looking good.

4. Create a fire or BBQ pit (20.5%):

This retro project evokes 1950s dads flipping burgers over a handmade brick pit. Today, you’re more likely to install a gas grill in the pit, which makes the stainless steel seem less industrial and more homey.