Sheffield, UK. March 20th, 2026 – New research from waterproofing brand, Thompsons, has revealed the most popular ‘quick win’ DIY jobs among UK homeowners, as the arrival of spring encourages many to focus on home and garden maintenance.
With longer days and improving weather conditions, seasonal upkeep is becoming a priority. The survey found that 92.11% of respondents plan to undertake DIY projects this spring, with 84.21% stating they prefer to carry out tasks themselves rather than hire a professional.
Outdoor maintenance ranks highest on the list of priorities, with 44.74% of homeowners identifying external spaces as their starting point.
Tidying the garden and cleaning patios or driveways emerged as the most common ‘easy win’ tasks. Interior projects also remain popular, including painting and installing shelves or picture frames.
The findings reveal that many homeowners are focusing on manageable improvements that can be completed quickly while still enhancing the appearance and functionality of their living spaces.
Jimmy Englezos, Senior Brand Manager at Thompson’s said: “With the wet winter months having taken its toll, we’re not surprised that garden maintenance is high up on people’s priority lists, especially now that we’re seeing the return of bluer skies and warmer days.
“High winds and heavy rain can cause havoc to our gardens and outdoor spaces, as well as leading to the build-up of unsightly stains, dirt and algae that can become tough to clean – especially on hard-landscaping surfaces like patios.”
The research also highlights that preparation remains a key consideration for those planning DIY work. Over two-thirds of respondents indicated they expect to purchase materials or tools to complete their projects.
When it comes to cleaning patios and driveways, respondents noted a range of approaches, from manual cleaning to the use of pressure washers.
However, longer-term maintenance solutions are also being considered, particularly where recurring issues such as algae growth or staining are concerned.
Specialist cleaning products are available for patios and block paving that are designed to help remove dirt, grime, and common surface marks.
According to a Thompson’s expert, these types of cleaners can also help limit the return of issues such as algae growth and oil staining on drives over time, making maintenance easier for homeowners.
Additional treatments, such as waterproofing sealants, can be applied to provide a protective layer over the surface.
These are intended to reduce the penetration of dirt, stains, algae, and moss, particularly during wetter months, and may help protect against longer-term wear and damage.
The data reflects a broader trend towards practical, time-efficient home improvements, with homeowners seeking achievable tasks that deliver visible results without requiring extensive renovation.
As spring progresses and the first bank holiday weekend approaches, the findings indicate that many households are using the opportunity to refresh their homes and outdoor areas through straightforward DIY activities.
ENDS