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Buying a home has always been seen as a milestone, but for many millennials the path to home ownership has become increasingly difficult. House prices continue to climb, lending rules are tighter, and the costs tied to moving are higher than ever. Rather than taking on the stress and expense of relocating, more young homeowners are choosing home improvement.
Research by Hillarys reveals that around 7 million UK homeowners plan to carry out some form of home renovation by 2027, with an average spend of £14,000. For millennials, this decision is not only about saving money. It is also about adding comfort, improving energy efficiency, and making their homes fit long term ambitions.
Why Millennials Choose Home Improvement
Cost of Moving Vs Cost of Improving
The cost of moving is steep. In 2024 the average UK house price stood at £290,000, with new build homes even further out of reach for many younger buyers. In cities the challenge is even greater.
The Zoopla House Price Index shows that the gap between houses and flats is now at a 30 year high, with houses increasing much faster. For millennials this often means starting with a flat rather than a house, but it also drives the choice to improve rather than move.
When you add stamp duty, solicitor fees, surveys, removals, and redecorating, moving can cost tens of thousands of pounds. By comparison, putting that money into thermal home improvements or upgrades such as aluminium bifold doors and sliding doors offers immediate lifestyle benefits and long term value. Millennials tend to look at the bigger picture, directing their money into upgrades that enhance daily living while also adding home value.
Focus On Energy Efficiency
Millennials are also more environmentally aware than previous generations, and cutting bills through energy efficiency is often their top priority. The Barbour ABI Home Improvement Index 2024 found a 15% rise in applications for energy efficient installations compared with the year before, and under 30s accounted for a large share of this growth.
Upgrading to double glazing, aluminium doors with thermal breaks, and adding skylights to reduce the need for artificial lighting all make a big difference. These thermal home improvements lower monthly bills and protect against rising energy costs in the future.
“We see a real shift in priorities with younger homeowners. Millennials want light filled, energy efficient homes, and they know investing in quality products like aluminium doors and windows delivers on both. It is not just about looks, it is about comfort, sustainability, and long-term value.”
— Steve Bromberg, Managing Director, Express Bi-Folding Doors
Creating Light and Space
For many millennials, the top priorities in home improvement are maximising space and flooding rooms with natural light. Expansive patio doors are especially popular, effortlessly connecting the home to the garden and creating an airy, open plan feel.
For those drawn to a more traditional style, aluminium French doors offer the best of both worlds: characterful design with the benefit of abundant natural light. A front door upgrade can also work wonders; swapping an old model for a sleek aluminium design not only enhances kerb appeal but also boosts security.
Skylights remain another favourite choice, transforming loft conversions, kitchens, and extensions by bringing sunlight into previously dark corners. The result is a brighter, more welcoming home that feels larger and more uplifting.
Home Improvement Adds Value for The Future
For millennials, a home is both a place to live and an investment. Renovating instead of moving means they can enjoy the improvements immediately while also boosting the property’s value in the long run.
Major upgrades such as kitchen renovations, loft conversions, or extensions can add significant value, but even smaller improvements like replacing a front door, upgrading windows to modern double glazing, or installing bifold doors can make a big difference when it comes to market appeal.
Influence of Social Media
Social platforms have become an important source of inspiration. Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok are filled with home renovation ideas, and InsightDIY reports that 71% of Gen Z and 67% of millennials use social media as their main source of DIY advice.
Hilarys predict that by 2030, DIY and decorating sales in the UK could reach £30.8 billion, which would be a 3.4% rise in just six years. This growth in DIY culture is encouraging homeowners to take on projects themselves and make their homes more personal. For those who want to do it themselves, our sister company Express Bifolds Direct supplies aluminium premade bifold doors and garden room features that can be delivered within 5 working days.
Popular Home Renovation Projects Among Millennials
Extensions and Open-Plan Living
Single-storey extensions are one of the most popular ways for millennials to create additional space, often used to expand kitchens or open up living areas. Within this category, conservatories and orangeries remain firm favourites, offering bright and versatile rooms that bring in plenty of natural light.
Incorporating sliding or bifold patio doors along the back of an extension further connects the space to the garden. This effortless indoor-outdoor flow makes the home feel bigger and provides the perfect setting for family life or entertaining guests.
Garden Rooms
Remote working has also pushed millennials towards home improvement projects. Statistics show that 54% of people aged 24 to 34 now work remotely at least some of the time. This trend has made garden rooms increasingly popular as they provide dedicated space for work, fitness or hobbies. With aluminium French doors or large glazed windows, they are bright, practical and usable throughout the year.
Loft Conversions
Loft spaces are often underused, and millennials see them as an opportunity for an extra bedroom or office. Adding skylights brings in plenty of daylight, making the space highly functional and inviting.
FAQs: Home Improvement Vs Moving
Is home improvement really cheaper than moving?
Yes, in most cases. The cost of moving home can easily exceed £20,000 once fees and expenses are included. Investing that amount into improvements such as new thermally efficient aluminium doors, double glazing, or an extension often brings more long-term benefits.
Do upgrades like bifold doors add home value?
Yes. Features that improve light, space, and energy efficiency are particularly attractive to buyers and can increase property value.
What are thermal home improvements?
These are upgrades that improve insulation and reduce heat loss, such as modern double glazing, improved roofing, or high-performance doors. They improve comfort, cut bills, and boost a property’s thermal performance.
A new way forward
Millennials are reshaping the housing market and proving that home improvement is not just a backup plan but a considered choice. By focusing on natural light, energy efficiency, and thermal home improvements, they are creating homes that suit their lifestyles today while adding home value for tomorrow.
At Express we see every day how the right upgrades, from aluminium bifold doors and sliding doors to front doors, French doors and skylights, can refresh a property. For many millennials, home improvement is not only the practical option but also the most rewarding one.
It is more than an upgrade. It is an investment in peace of mind and lasting value. If you would like to see what is possible, explore our case studies online or visit one of our showrooms. Our expert team will guide you through the options and show you how your home can benefit.
