GUEST ARTICLE: 7 in 10 homeowners plan to renovate outdoor space, with environmental impact key

The UK is experiencing a garden-renovation boom post-lockdown, with approximately 7 in 10 homeowners vowing to imminently (in the next three months) alter any outdoor space they have to include more greenery, according to a new study by national construction supplier Burton Roofing.

Despite the cost of materials, 68% cited as a main consideration in any outdoor project, six in ten homeowners (61%) revealed they would actually be happy to stretch their budget a little further and pay more for tools and materials if they were more eco-friendly. 

A third of homeowners (29%) will also consider the long-term environmental impact of their work before commencing with their garden improvement project.

The study of 2,500 homeowners follows chancellor Rishi Sunak’s announcement of a £3bn green investment package, that included plans to decarbonise public buildings and cut emissions from Britain’s poorly insulated homes.

The research suggests that 25-34 year olds are particularly concerned with the environmental impact of any outdoor home improvements they make, with two fifths (40%) suggesting they would look into the sustainability of their materials, compared to only 16% of 45-54 year olds.

Men (35%) consider the environment more than women (24%), when planning a renovation project.

Bristolians are leading the charge when paying that little bit more for eco-friendly materials, with 80% willing to pay more for sustainable options. Glaswegians (71%) and Londoners (69%) are also keen, whilst the people of Southampton (35%) were the least willing to spend any extra for something eco-friendly.

% of homeowners who will pay extra for eco-friendly materials and tools

 – Bristol: 80%
 – Glasgow: 71%
 – London: 69%
 – Birmingham: 67%
 – Leeds: 59%
 – Manchester: 59%
 – Liverpool: 55%
 – Norwich: 54%
 – Sheffield: 53%
 – Nottingham: 53%
 – Newcastle: 50%
 – Cardiff: 48%
 – Edinburgh: 45%
 – Southampton: 35%

Homeowners from London (44%) are the most likely to consider the long-term environmental impact of their outdoor home project, with Bristol (40%) and Sheffield (34%) residents also deeming this important. Edinburgh residents (5%) were recorded as being the least likely to consider this.

Paul Hattee, MD at Burton Roofing, commented: “It is fantastic to see so many UK homeowners putting their mind towards an outdoor constructive project during what is a difficult time for everyone.

“Green spaces are vital for our mental and physical well-being, so it is natural that many want to make their outdoor spaces greener.

“Whilst the study has highlighted a positive trend, it is vital that any homeowner looking to modify their outdoor space plan out their project in detail to avoid having to re-do any of the work in the near-future.

“The study demonstrates that the UK is a country of homeowners that take pride in the appearance of their homes and outdoor areas.”