ARE YOU A QUALIFIED TRADE PRO? MEMBERSHIP WILL BENEFIT YOUR BUSINESS

JOIN AS A TRADE PROFESSIONAL.

With over €16M in job leads each month - and a suite of business tools that will improve your business - We help qualified trades pros & tradesmen thrive.

tradesmen jobs
Gen Z’s DIY Struggle is a Boon for Tradesmen
Kelly Ohlmus

Gen Z’s DIY Struggle is a Boon for Tradesmen

Good news for tradesmen everywhere—Gen Z adults are putting down the spanners and picking up the phone to call in the pros for even the simplest of tasks.

A recent survey by Halfords has revealed that young adults aged 18 to 27 are spending an average of €1,300 a year on jobs that older generations might tackle themselves.

 

 

GOTDIT: The “Get Others To Do It” Generation

It seems the DIY know-how of younger generations is on the decline. Dubbed the “GOTDIT” generation (Get Others To Do It), Gen Z is more likely to hire professionals to change light bulbs, clean cars, or even hang a picture frame.

That’s music to the ears of tradesmen and women ready to step in and help!

Here are just a few of the tasks that have Gen Z stumped:

  • Replacing a light bulb: Nearly a quarter won’t do it, citing concerns about hot bulbs or stepladder safety.
  • Adding air to a car tyre: Almost half say they’d rather let a mechanic handle it.
  • Hanging a picture frame: Some 11% of Gen Z would call in the pros for this quick job.
  • Cleaning a car: Over 25% are unsure where to begin and prefer to pay someone else.
  • Fitting a wiper blade: A staggering 65% admitted they don’t know how to replace one.

 

Fear or Convenience?

The survey also highlighted a lack of basic tool knowledge among Gen Z. One in five can’t identify a spanner, while nearly 30% don’t recognise a flathead screwdriver.

And when quizzed on car engines, only 34% could locate the battery in a picture.

Whether it’s fear of making a mistake or simply valuing convenience, Gen Z’s reluctance to tackle DIY is driving demand for professional services. 

 

A Bright Spot for Trade Pros

For OnlineTradesmen members, this trend means plenty of opportunities to showcase your expertise.

From straightforward fixes to routine maintenance, there’s no shortage of work as Gen Z opts to outsource these tasks.

So, the next time you’re called out to change a light bulb or hang a picture frame, remember: You’re not just solving a problem; you’re becoming the go-to hero for a generation that values your skills.

 

Share Your Stories

What’s the most unusual or basic job you’ve been called out for? We’d love to hear your tales from the toolbox! Share them in the comments below. And to all the Gen Z readers out there—don’t worry, we’ve got your back when DIY gets too daunting. Post your job here.

The OnlineTradesmen.ie Team

Print
39 Rate this article:
No rating
Please login or register to post comments.
 

GET PROMOTED.

We love promoting great Tradespeople and their businesses. If you have a video of your great workmanship, something funny or interesting to share - Submit if for free and We'll promote it to our 2M users.