Ever find yourself wandering the aisles of the hardware store, not quite sure what it is you need to tackle that next home improvement project? Data shows that preventative and aesthetic home improvement projects have a high return on investment, but these tasks aren’t always as intuitive as we’d like them to be.
Luckily, no matter which hardware aisle you find yourself in, your smartphone can act as a portal to limitless resources. Here’s a roundup of apps to consult for inspiration and advice on your next DIY project.
Houzz
Operating system: iOS, Android and Web
Price: Free
Average iOS Rating: 5 out of 5
Average Android Review: 5 out of 5
Houzz has been deemed the “Wikipedia of interior and exterior design” by CNN. Basically, it’s a giant database of home design ideas. You can browse photos according to style, room and location and then save them for later, or even consult the designer or home professional that uploaded the image for advice on how to proceed.
Dwell
Operating system: iOS, Android and Web
Price: Free
Average iOS Rating: 4 out of 5
Average Android Rating: 4.5 out of 5
The Dwell app offers videos and slideshows of home architecture and design to inspire your next project. You can also use the app to search for specific products for your home or apartment.
Home Depot
Operating system: iOS and Android
Price: Free
Average iOS Rating: 5 out of 5
Average Android Rating: 5 out of 5
Whether you’re actually in a Home Depot store or at home, you can check the app to see a schedule of upcoming DIY workshops at your local store. The app’s toolbox section includes a caliper, converter, nut and bolt finder (to find the size of an existing nut, bolt or screw) and a tape measure. And when it comes time to buy supplies, the app’s calculators will help you make informed quantity decisions on drywall, flooring, insulation or paint.
Brightnest
Operating system: iOS only
Price: Free
Average iOS Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Brightnest focuses on all things home maintenance, from organization to cleaning and DIY décor or improvement. Create your account and fill out your profile with personal home goals and the app will deliver a customized set of tips, articles and how-to guides. Use the scheduling function to set up reminders and keep yourself on track with projects around the house.
HandyMan DIY
Operating system: iOS only
Price: $1.99
Average iOS Rating: 3.5 out of 5
The HandyMan DIY app has a number of tools to help you stay organized in the midst of a home improvement project. Each project can be broken down into lists for materials, tasks, notes and room details (store dimensions and info on switches, outlets, doors and windows here). There’s also a how-to guide within the app that can help guide you through projects that you need a bit of extra instruction to complete.
Redbeacon
Operating system: iOS and Android
Price: Free
Average iOS Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Average Android Review: 4.5 out of 5
If you’ve concluded that this project is better left to the experts, you can use the Redbeacon app to find someone to complete the task. Load up the app and describe the job, then snap a photo or video to illustrate exactly what the project entails. The app will then send you a few quotes from home professionals in your area.
These are just a few of the online and mobile tools homeowners now have at their disposal. Before you assign someone the job, however, be sure to run through our tips for vetting home improvement professionals.
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