Remodeling projects saw a significant upswing during the COVID-19 pandemic as Americans revamped their home spaces for increased functionality and livability amid quarantine restrictions and work-from-home ordinances. A recent joint study by the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry reveals the impact of the pandemic on homeowner design preferences and remodeling costs.
Projects that sparked enjoyment among homeowners were awarded Joy Scores, and according to Forbes, the renovations with the highest Joy Scores include painting a home’s entire interior, painting one room, adding a home office, hardwood floor refinishing, and closet renovation and insulation upgrades.
The exact reasons why homeowners decided to modify their living spaces varied. Thirty-five percent of owners said the single most important result from their remodel was better functionality and livability. Upon completion of their project, 22% said they had durable and long-lasting results, materials and appliances. Fourteen percent reported beauty and aesthetics as a result of their remodel.
Sheltering at home clearly sparked a sustained and unprecedented tidal wave of home and backyard projects.