Over half (56%) of Brits admit they have hidden a DIY task from their partner – as a fifth say they are motivated to hide a transformation to simply prove a point.
That’s according to home improvement retailer Wickes, which surveyed over 2,000 homeowners nationwide to share insights into ‘Sneaky DIY’.
Based on the idea that people are increasingly waiting until partners and other members of the household are away to transform an area of their home, the research also reveals:
– A third (31%) of Brits claim painting would be their chosen secret task
– Furniture assembly (named by 23%), gardening and landscaping (23%), and home repairs (23%) are all popular Sneaky jobs
– When asked why they are Sneaky DIY-ers, 55% say they wanted to surprise their partner or housemate
The Wickes study also found a third of those polled (33%) confessed they have been on the receiving end of a Sneaky DIY task – with 44% of respondents admitting they had a positive reaction when they realised. However, a few admitted to feeling annoyed and frustrated with the surprise.
London is revealed to be the sneakiest region, with 67% keeping DIY tasks hidden from other household members, while research suggests those in the South West are the most honest DIYers, with only 49% confessing to hiding their DIY projects.
The findings indicate younger generations are the most likely culprits when keeping DIY a secret, as 72% of 18–24-year-olds and 74% of 25-34-year-olds confess to having completed a task without informing a partner or house member.
Mandy Minichiello, head of marketing, kitchens, bathrooms, PR & social at Wickes, said: “DIY can be a source of contention in households, with opinions divided on style and colour. It’s led to an increase of people opting to hide their DIY intentions, choosing instead to surprise partners with a transformation once it’s complete.
“Whether it’s for a shared DIY project or an unexpected surprise for a partner or family member, shoppers can head in-store for expert advice. The Wickes website has a vast array of How To guides with tips on the best tools and techniques to ensure a successful Sneaky reveal.”
