Branch

The most common DIY tasks avoided by Brits

; ; According to recent research, many Brits aren’t confident doing DIY jobs themsel

Published 18th January 2023

 

 

According to recent research, many Brits aren’t confident doing DIY jobs themselves in fear of getting them wrong.

The survey of 2,000 adults, conducted by OnePoll, found 37 percent have tried to take on a home maintenance or DIY job, only to get it completely wrong – and in the last 12 months alone, this has happened to these people on average three times each.

The fear of failing isn’t the only reason Brits don’t take on DIY either. 37 percent said they simply don’t enjoy doing the tasks, while 45 percent blamed lack of time and 43 percent stated low funds held them back.

Many admitted to avoiding DIY due to lacking confidence, which led to many tasks being put off until another day. In fact, only 46 percent are comfortable hanging a picture, whilst just 17 percent say they could stop a dripping toilet. A mere 11 per cent would back themselves to change a radiator, while sorting out a fuse is doable for just 42 per cent.

Finally, only 41 per cent are confident they could turn off the water at home, with just 54 per cent believing they are capable of changing a light bulb. The most common jobs people stated they weren’t comfortable with are listed below.

Top 10 DIY jobs Brits don't feel confident trying

  1. Changing a radiator
  2. Installing new radiator valves
  3. Stopping a dripping toilet
  4. Insulating the loft
  5. Adjusting the water pressure
  6. Replacing a light fixture
  7. Insulating water pipes
  8. Putting up TV bracket
  9. Changing the tumble dryer’s filter
  10. Wallpapering a room
To stock up on wholesale DIY essentials, including trade decorating and wholesale building supplies, pop into your local Stax branch or visit www.staxtradecentres.co.uk today.

Read more

Keep up to date with all the latest news from Stax.

20th November 2025

Getting Winter-Ready with Stax

Every year, as soon as the first frost hits, it’s the same story. Shelves empty fast, demand for winter essentials skyrockets, and retailers scramble to restock heaters, de-icing salt, security lights, and torches. But the retailers who truly thrive in the colder months are the ones who plan ahead.

Read More

14th November 2025

Management team takes the helm in Stax Trade Centres buyout.

Stax Trade Centres Ltd. is embarking on an exciting new era with the announcement of a management buyout, a move that seamlessly continues its 44-year legacy of stability and success. The deal sees Purchasing Director Simon Wright and Operations Director Nigel Wright step into the roles of Joint Managing Directors, confidently steering the company into its next chapter.

Read More

29th July 2025

Bira welcomes Government's new product safety laws

Bira has backed the government's move to hold online marketplaces to the same high standards as high street shops, following Royal Assent of the Product Regulation and Metrology Act.

Read More
See all