How many searches does it take to change a lightbulb - Ireland's DIY embarrassment revealed

New research has revealed the truth about Ireland's DIY skills, and the results are nothing to rave about.

The research has revealed that Ireland is not very good at DIY, with people Googling the likes of ‘how to change a lightbulb’ an average of 5,520 times each month of 2025.

‘How to use a hammer’ and similar terms have an average of 420 monthly searches whole ‘how to unblock a toilet’ has been searched an average of 1,300 times per month, with ‘how to unblock a toilet without a plunger fast’ also being searched. 

The research was carried out by Cork-based furniture builder and fitter Drumm Carpentry, Kitchens & Wardrobes with ‘how to use a screwdriver’ and related terms being searched an average of 310 times each month.

When asked for DIY advice, Darren Drumm, founder of Drumm Carpentry, Kitchens & Wardrobes recommended that homeowners approach each task with their skillset in mind.

"We all think we can take on any job, whether it’s building under stairs storage or a wardrobe, but the truth is most people just haven’t got the skillset. Some jobs, say indoor painting, is more straightforward and manageable, but when it comes to furniture or flooring and the use of power tools, you really do need to get a professional in to make sure it’s done safety, and correctly.”

When asked why he thought people might encounter DIY issues, Darren said, “to be honest, the majority of people don’t realise they’re not very good at DIY until it’s too late. Unless you have some idea of what you’re doing, your house is at risk of becoming a test dummy. And when things go wrong, it can cost a lot more than it originally would have just to get things right.”

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