Home improvement, or home renovation, is the process of making improvements to the home. This includes interior and exterior projects such as painting, remodeling kitchens and bathrooms, installing new flooring, doors and windows, putting in a deck or patio, and adding insulation. It also covers such activities as replacing electrical or plumbing fixtures and adding landscaping to the yard.
Many homeowners do home improvement projects to increase the value of their property, or to improve the comfort of living in the house. Some projects have immediate returns, such as adding a pool or installing a new front door, while others have a longer return, such as renovating a kitchen or bathroom. Homeowners may also undertake home improvement projects to make the house more energy-efficient or safe.
The home improvement industry is a large and varied sector that encompasses the sale of building materials, appliances, decor and other equipment, as well as contractors and other workers who perform renovation or remodeling jobs on homes. The industry is experiencing strong growth, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The popularity of television shows such as Bob Vila’s This Old House and a growing interest in craftsmanship have contributed to the growth of the home improvement industry and culture. The DIY (do-it-yourself) movement is also a contributing factor. Increasingly, women are taking on roles previously reserved for men in the realm of DIY, such as using power tools or participating in other types of home improvement projects.