A new generation of renovators is on the rise

• More than three-quarters of today's younger DIYers surveyed feel confident they'll complete their planned projects in 2025
   
• Top projects they want to complete include bathtub or shower replacements, interior painting and built-in storage and organization
   
• More than half of DIYers surveyed say a sense of accomplishment and pride pushes them to finish their projects

TOWSON, Md., June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite a backdrop of uncertainty, younger homeowners don't plan to hit pause on their planned home improvement projects. Rather than waiting or compromising, many Millennials and Gen Zers are rolling up their sleeves and literally taking matters into their own hands, according to newly released research from CRAFTSMAN^®, the most trusted and recommended brand in Tools & Outdoor* for today's DIYers.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/craftsman/9310052-en-craftsman-young-diyers-survey-home-improvement

First Overall Pick: The Partner Selection

When it comes to drafting their home improvement dream team, DIYers have clear preferences for who they want in their project team. Survey respondents revealed their top picks for who they'd most want by their side when tackling projects.

On the board:

• First pick: Spouse (30%) - Like a franchise quarterback, spouses lead the depth chart
   
• Second pick: Best Friend (23%) - The reliable veteran free agent
   
• Late round picks: Parents (11%) and Neighbors (7%) - Solid depth players
   

Power Tool Combine Results

Just like a well-rounded football team needs different specialists to succeed, these essential tools are the players that serious DIYers are eyeing to add to their line-up. Each brings its unique strengths to the workbench, ready to execute their specific plays with precision and power when called upon.

Top performers in the tools combine:

• Powered Cordless Screwdriver (64%) - The versatile first-round pick, like a dual-threat quarterback who can adapt to any situation - whether driving screws with precision or tackling quick assembly jobs, this MVP delivers clutch performance when you need it most.
   
• Circular Saw (42%) - The power rusher of the tool world, pushing through materials like a bruising running back breaking through the defensive line - with raw cutting force and the ability to slice through lumber, plywood, and other materials, it's the power rusher you want for those tough yardage projects.
   
• Hammer Drill (41%) - The hard-hitting defensive tackle of DIY equipment brings the impact when you need to punch through concrete, brick, or masonry, this hard-hitting specialist combines rotary motion and hammering action to dominate tough surfaces.
   

Stadium Soundtrack

Much like football players getting pumped up in the tunnel before kick-off, DIYers have their own pre-project rituals. Rock music emerges as the top draft pick for getting in the zone, followed by hip-hop/rap and country creating the perfect game-day atmosphere.

Game day music selection:

• Rock (22%) - The classic stadium anthem choice
   
• Hip-hop/Rap (17%) - The modern pre-game hype music
   
• Country (16%) - The tailgate favorite

About the survey

Stanley Black & Decker commissioned Atomik Research to conduct an online survey of 1,006 adults throughout the United States. The makeup of the sample is representative of the U.S. population based on national census data regarding demographic variables such as gender, age, race, ethnicity and U.S. region. The survey fielding took place between February 28 and March 4, 2025.

Respondents said they are entering 2025 with confidence and determination to take on their planned projects. However, more than four in 10 projects stall due to overestimating the skills, time and budget needed to complete a project.

• Skills and Knowledge Gaps: When extra knowledge is needed, the modern DIYer turns to their digital and personal networks. YouTube remains the most popular learning tool (67%), followed by family members (45%) and friends (31%).
  Tip: Before starting a new DIY project, research, research, research! Review video tutorials, articles and more from trusted resources to learn the right techniques, processes and safety precautions.
• Time Management: In the planning phase, 38% say they drastically underestimate how long a project will take, while 35% find themselves unexpectedly taking on additional work once they begin. When DIYers need assistance throughout the project, most (84%) enlist the help of family and friends.
  Tip: Avoid building a project timeline around a big event or holiday to allow for ample time if unforeseen issues or delays arise.
• Budgeting: Thirty-four percent say estimating costs is the hardest part. When trips to the store for another part or tool start stacking up, many homeowners find themselves spending more than anticipated.
  Tip: A good rule of thumb is to build in an additional 10-20% of the total project budget to account for unexpected costs.

But being stalled doesn't stop these DIY enthusiasts. According to the CRAFTSMAN^® survey, respondents believe they can overcome their obstacles, and more often than not, they do – with only 2% of projects ever left totally abandoned.

In fact, 67% of DIYers say that a sense of accomplishment and pride is what pushes them to finish their projects, even when challenges pop up. That feeling becomes fuel for what comes next: once a project is completed, 65% feel motivated to begin another project, and 59% are ready to tackle something bigger and more complex than before.

CRAFTSMAN^® BUILD ON™

In April 2025, CRAFTSMAN^® launched BUILD ON™ and its What You Build Builds You campaign. BUILD ON™ captures the DIY journey and how, through that journey, DIYers overcome challenges and celebrate successes, urging them on to the next project with confidence. Through it all, CRAFTSMAN^® is there with the right tools and solutions to help get the job done.