Unless you’re a DIY expert, you probably need a little bit of help with your projects. In lieu of having a carpenter or craftsman on hand, you can always turn to the wealth of DIY information on your smartphone. That’s right, the app store doesn’t just let you download games Google Maps and Instagram – you can find apps that help you build real things!
DIY apps are an amazing resource and can be absolute lifesavers when you’re in a bind. New apps are being released constantly, but these are a few that will go a long way in making your next project a success.
1. Eden Garden Designer, $1.99, available on iPhone and iPod Touch
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If you want to get your brand new garden design just right, give this app a try. It allows you to customize your own garden and test out different designs before you doing any real planting.
2. ColorSmart by Behr, Free, available on iPhone and Android
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Picking the right shade of paint can be a painstakingly slow process. Luckily, there are apps like ColorSmart that make it much easier to find the perfect color for a room.
3. iHandy Carpenter, $1.99, available on iPhone and Android
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This app has measuring tapes, protractors, and levels that are calibrated using your phone’s accelerometer. Pretty nifty if you ask me!
4. Home Maintenance by POJO, $4.99, available on iOS
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Tasks around the house can really start to pile up – and if you’re not careful, important projects can fall through the cracks. This app helps you keep your tasks and projects organized.
5. INSTEON for Hub, Free, available on iOS, Android, Windows
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If you’re a fan of remote automation on your smartphone (being able to control lights, AC, etc. from your phone) but you also love revamping your rooms with DIY projects, this app is for you. Rather than having a set number of automated options, this app keeps up with the additions you make to your house. Simply add your home additions to the app.
6. HomeAdvisor, Free, available on iPhone and Android
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If you’re in over your head during a DIY project, don’t be afraid to contact a professional. HomeAdvisor makes it easy to reach out to contractors, electricians, or others with specialized skills. It’s always a good idea to at least get a second opinion.
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If you’re like me, you don’t know the first thing about types of wood, what kinds of wood to use for certain projects, or really anything about wood besides that it comes from trees. The Woodshop Widget is a must-have for selecting the best wood for the job.
8. Construction Master Pro, $19.99, available on iTunes and Android
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Some projects require complex math to complete. And let’s face it, not all of us got an A+ in that class. This app helps with stair construction and roofing and can do fractions, trigonometry, and conversions. An app like this goes a long way in preventing the headaches you can get if you do the math wrong while in the midst of a large project.
9. Home Depot App, Free, available on iPhone and Android
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If you need new or replacement products, this app will prevent you from having to wander around the store looking for what you need. Instead, spend that time planning your project. A great feature of the app is being able to buy something and have it delivered to your home or local Home Depot.
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Experiencing designer’s block? Look to Houzz for inspiration photos for your next idea. Check out DIY design tutorials on the app; you can also chat with Houzz community members and get advice on your most pressing project questions.
(via Popular Mechanics)
I actually think I’m going to need all of these if I’m going to finish half of the projects I have planned for 2015. These apps will certainly make my own DIY ideas a whole lot more manageable and realistic.
