Just in time for Father's Day, a new poll reveals a heartwarming truth: Dads are still the undisputed champions of home improvement. As if we didn't already know that.
Of course, not every dad is a DIY genius, and not everyone has the joy of having a hands-on dad who spoils them with Father's Day gifts in appreciation of their DIY efforts. But those dads who do know how lucky they are. And our families aren't the only ones to benefit: Research shows that kids who have good relationships with their grandparents have fewer behavioral and emotional problems, and we think a grandfather who's willing to share DIY tips is especially valuable.
Having a DIY-savvy, willing dad on hand to help out around the house can be a game changer for many moms, especially those dealing with everything from childcare to mental strain. And now, just in time for Father's Day, a new poll from DIY brand BLACK+DECKER confirms what many of us have known all along: Dads are the undisputed champions of all things home improvement.
The survey, which gathered responses from more than 500 people, found that 43% of people turn to their fathers rather than their partners for DIY help, highlighting the enduring tradition of fathers being the go-to man for solving household problems.
Additionally, the survey revealed that 79% of respondents consider DIY projects a great way to connect with their dads.
Top 5 DIY tips inherited from your dad
Nick Ee, Product and Training Manager at BLACK+DECKER, explains why these five tips from a DIY-loving dad are classics, proving that dads really do know best.
1. “The right tool for the right job. That’s what I always say.”
The survey found that 40% of respondents believe this is the best advice they've received from their dad: “Having the right tool for the job is key to efficiency, precision, safety and quality of work – it also gives you more confidence to master the DIY project at hand,” Nick explains.
2. “Good things come to those who wait.”
One in three respondents (30%) said the best DIY advice they received from their dad was patience: “Having patience when completing a DIY project allows you to plan and execute carefully, reducing the chance of mistakes and ensuring each step is done correctly. This reduces frustration and makes for a more enjoyable bonding experience.”
Nick says, “Having patience when completing a DIY project allows you to plan and execute carefully, reducing the chance of mistakes. Patience also ensures each step is done correctly, limiting frustration and allowing for more fun bonding time with Dad while DIYing.”
3. “Measure twice, cut once.”
One in ten (10%) say their dads have advised them to carefully plan DIY projects in advance, with Nick suggesting: “Planning your DIY projects ensures you have all the tools and materials you need, saving you time and preventing delays. If you're tackling a larger project, planning efficiently can help you manage your budget and achieve a higher quality result.”
4. “Mistakes are just practice for success. Now let's figure out how to fix this.”
10% of respondents said their dads taught them not to be afraid of failure, a sentiment that likely applies beyond the DIY realm. Nick agreed, saying, “Failure provides valuable learning experiences that can improve your skills and knowledge. Don't be afraid to fail. Embracing failure will ultimately make you more confident.”
5. “Turn it to the right to tighten, turn it to the left to loosen.”
This memorable phrase was cited by 10% of respondents as the best advice they received from their dad, with Nick commenting: “This is one of the most memorable ways to remember that most screws, bolts and nuts tighten when turned to the right and loosen when turned to the left.”
But I think there's one tip missing from this list of classic DIY-themed dad advice: Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor (played by Tim Allen on the sitcom). Home Improvements) Said:
“If it's not broken, you're not trying.”
BLACK+DECKER encourages families to celebrate their handy dads by tackling a DIY project together this Father's Day. Whether you're fixing a leaky tap, building a birdhouse, or tackling a major home improvement project, these timeless tips will ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Looking for more Father's Day inspiration? The best father's day gift and 80 Father's Day Quotes and Messages to Write in a Card for Dad Don't forget to check it out When is Father's Day?