Home improvement projects are no longer started in the garage or at the kitchen table. They’re started on a smartphone — whether you’re at home, at work, or out and about.
Are you fixing a leaky faucet? Remodeling a room? Renovating your entire house? The right apps for the tasks at hand will save time, reduce errors, and increase your confidence.
For DIYers, smartphones have become a vital resource. Instead of being restricted to making calls, checking emails, and typing texts, smartphones can be used by DIYers seeking instructions, measurements, and more in one place.
Here are five DIY home improvement and repair apps to have on your smartphone. You can check out your favorite app store to find specific apps that meet your needs.
1. YouTube
YouTube is worth its own section — though you can find instructions on other platforms, too. It’s not just for watching hilarious cat videos. YouTube is probably the most important home improvement tool available. Videos for nearly any home improvement task exist. You just need to find them.
Sometimes there’s just nothing like seeing something done in front of you. Are you looking to tile a backsplash or change a light fixture? There are videos available to help. For DIYers, YouTube replaces trial-and-error. It can turn something complicated into something relatively simple.
As of January 2026, YouTube had north of 2.7 billion monthly active users. So, the next time you want to roll up your sleeves and try your hand at a repair or renovation, conduct a search on YouTube. You’re bound to find DIY videos that help you from start to finish.
2. Measurements
While standard calculators can be useful, construction calculator apps can be even more beneficial for DIYers who want to take on home improvement projects. Some apps can perform the following functions:
- Square footage calculations
- Material estimates
- Unit conversion
- Cost estimation
By using construction calculators, DIYers can minimize mistakes and ensure they buy the correct quantity of materials. The fewer mistakes made on this front, the fewer trips to the hardware store and the less money wasted.
3. Safety and Building Codes
Safety and building code apps are essental tools for DIYes, especially if they’re planning to undertake home improvement projects that require compliance with specific building codes. Some apps can provide access to safety information, guidelines, and codes.
Although these apps won’t replace the need for professional advice, DIYers can still benefit from the information provided. The information can help them avoid common mistakes that may arise from not being familiar with building codes.
Contractors, should you wish to hire one, will have the professional knowledge of safety and building codes. Whether through trade school, apprenticeships, online certifications, or on-the-job experience, contractors can ensure the job is done right the first time around.
So, if you attempt a DIY project and realize you underestimated the complexity of the project, there’s no shame in calling in the professionals to get the work done.
4. Photo and Annotation
Taking photos during home improvement projects can be helpful. Photo and annotation apps can help DIYers do the following:
- Document their work
- Label wires and plumbing locations
- Compare before and after photos
- Share photos with other people
Photography can also serve as a reference point in case repairs and home upgrades become necessary.
5. Budget Tracking
Home improvement projects can quickly spiral out of control due to a lack of budget tracking. Budget tracking apps, however, can assist DIYers in keeping tabs on expenses in real-time.
Budgeting is crucial, especially for bigger projects. Such projects tend to get out of hand due to a lack of budgeting. Budgeting is crucial in keeping a project rewarding rather than frustrating.
Why Apps Matter for Modern DIYers
Being a DIYer isn’t only about tools and equipment. It’s also about information and being well-prepared. These types of apps will help you make well-informed decisions and give you confidence while taking on a project.
Smartphones are a must-have accessory for DIYers looking to improve their homes. The right apps make a smartphone a planner, teacher, and budgeting tool all at once.
So, head to your favorite app store and download tools that’ll make your DIY projects easier.
