17 Must-Have Home Improvement Apps for DIYers
Thinking about diving into a home remodeling project? The money part’s sorted, so now comes the real grind—getting off the starting block. Lucky for you, your phone’s got more to offer than just Instagram scrolling. Say hello to home improvement apps, your new best friends in DIY chaos.
These little lifesavers work on your phone or tablet, ready to tackle everything from How do I patch this hole? to Where can I find this obscure tile?
Whether it’s brainstorming ideas or managing the nitty-gritty, they’ve got your back.
Home Improvement Apps for Construction and Repairs
Stanley Level
Leveling stuff might sound basic, but let’s be real—it’s the difference between a sleek shelf and one that looks like it’s had a few too many drinks. Whether you’re hanging frames, throwing together a dresser, or setting up that Pinterest-inspired table, getting things straight is non-negotiable.
That’s where the Stanley level app steps in. Forget digging through your junk drawer for that dusty old bubble level—this app’s got you covered. It handles furnishings, alignment, angle checks, and more, all from your phone. Plus, it’s stupid easy to use. Just download it on iOS, and boom—instant pro vibes.
Handyman Calculator
Stop guessing how much wood you need or fumbling with unit conversions like it’s math class all over again. Handyman Calculator’s got your back—just plug in what you know, hit calculate, and boom, answers. It’s not just about materials, either.
This app keeps tabs on your invoices, tracks the hours you’ve poured into a project, and even manages your to-do lists. Basically, it’s like having a nerdy sidekick who keeps you on track and under budget. Bonus? It’s good for Android, iOS, and desktop, so no excuses.
RoomScan Pro
Ever wish you could just point your phone at your walls and have it figure out your space for you? RoomScan Pro does exactly that. This app turns your phone into a measuring wizard—just touch it to the walls or scan the floor, and bam, you’ve got a digital blueprint of your space.
It’s scary accurate too. Next time you’re standing in the aisle at the home improvement store wondering if you need a 6-foot or 8-foot curtain rod, just pull out the app. Perfect for figuring out carpet sizes, furniture layouts, or any project where guessing isn’t good enough. (iOS only, so Apple people, you’re in luck.)
Home Improvement Apps for Planning and Inspiration
Got a vision for your space but can’t quite picture how it’ll all come together? There’s an app for that—actually, a bunch of them. Whether you’re rearranging your living room or dreaming up a full-on home makeover, these apps make it easy to test out ideas without lifting a single piece of furniture.
Home Design 3D
Ready to play interior designer without leaving your couch? This app lets you design and remodel your entire house in 3D like a total pro. Start with a 2D or 3D floor plan, then go wild furnishing and tweaking your dream space until it’s just right.
It’s perfect for testing out ideas before you commit to moving furniture or dropping cash on that statement couch. Works on your phone, tablet, or desktop, so you can obsess over your layouts wherever you are. (iOS, Android, desktop—it’s got all the bases covered.)
Build.com
Thinking about sprucing up your space but can’t quite picture how that swanky light fixture or fancy sink will look? Build.com’s got you covered. This app lets you visualize upgrades right in your own rooms—see how that ceiling fan vibes with your living room or if the new toilet is a match made in bathroom heaven.
And if you’re stuck, you can hit up live project experts for free advice and help tracking down whatever products you need. Works on iOS and Android, so you’re good to go no matter what phone’s in your pocket.
Magicplan
This one’s built for the pros but works just as well if you’re winging it. In minutes, you can whip up full-on floor plans—just scan a room, and boom, 30 seconds later, you’re set. It’s not just about the layout, though.
You get features like sketches, material and cost estimates, and even 3D models with virtual tours. Want to see how your dream setup will feel IRL before breaking out the hammer? This app’s got you covered. Available on iOS and Android, so no excuses.
Home Improvement Apps for Painting and Redecorating
Painting’s one of those things that sounds easy until you’re knee-deep in swatches and regretting that “perfect” shade. Lucky for you, paint apps exist to save the day.
They let you compare colors and see how lighting messes with them—because no one wants their dreamy gray turning into baby blue by 3 PM. And if you’re not into guesswork, grab a paint calculator to figure out exactly how many gallons you’ll need. Trust me, it’s better than five half-used cans taking up garage space.
Pantone Studio
If you’re all about nailing the perfect vibe, the Pantone app is your new best friend. It’s like having a color wizard in your pocket—build custom palettes, test them out on 3D stuff, and see how they actually look in action.
Plus, it hooks you up with pro tips and over 10,000 hues to play with, so you’re never stuck wondering if “jade green” is more green or more jade. Only on iOS, so Apple crew, go wild.
Paint Tester
If you’ve ever wondered what a color will actually look like on your wall before you commit, PaintTester’s got your back. Just upload a screenshot of your room, and it’ll let you test out paint colors instantly.
Want to get even more precise? Tape a real color sample to the wall, snap a pic, and the app’s color picker will match it perfectly, factoring in your room’s lighting.
So you don’t end up with a “sunset peach” that turns out to be neon orange by midday. Available on iOS, Android, and desktop, so you can prep from anywhere.
Home Improvement Apps for Shopping
Hunting for that perfect statement chair? Forget the endless scrolling and guessing—these apps make it ridiculously easy.
You can search, find, and even see how that chair will look in your space without having to move a muscle. Whether you're after something bold or just a solid upgrade, these apps let you play around with designs and furniture choices in real time. It’s basically like having your own personal interior stylist in your pocket.
Chairish
Chairish isn’t just your average furniture app—it’s the go-to for anyone who loves mixing vintage with a bit of flair. Rated “#1 Can’t Live Without Decorating App” by Architectural Digest, it’s packed with artisanal finds and antique treasures.
The best part? The “View Your Space” feature lets you drop these pieces into a virtual version of your home to see if they vibe with your style before you hit buy. Whether you're hunting for a retro lamp or an old-school chair, you can shop smart and stress-free. Available on iOS and Android.
AllModern
If you’re on the hunt for stylish furniture or decor but not quite ready to pull the trigger, AllModern has you covered. The app not only lets you shop for all things modern, but it also keeps you in the loop with tracking updates and sale alerts, so you never miss a deal.
Found something you like but need a second opinion? You can easily save items and share them with friends or family to get their take. Available on iOS and Android, it’s like having your own personal shopping assistant.
Home Depot
Home Depot’s app is a game-changer for anyone who likes to shop smart. Not only can you search for products both online and in local stores, but it also comes with an augmented reality feature, so you can see how things will actually look in your space before you buy.
Plus, you can create shopping lists, track your orders, and even chat with a live associate if you need help. Whether you're stocking up on tools or looking for some new furniture, this app makes the whole process a lot easier. Available on iOS and Android.
Home Improvement Apps for Finding Professionals
Sometimes calling in a professional is necessary to ensure a job well done. These apps take the grunt work out of sifting through thousands of contractors to find the right one for your project.
Thumbtack
Thumbtack’s like having a Rolodex of pros in your pocket. Need a handyman for that busted cabinet? Or maybe an electrician to finally fix that flickering light?
Just pop into the app, search for who you need, chat to iron out the details, and hire them right there. It’s not just for indoor stuff either—outdoor maintenance pros are a tap away. No endless Googling or shady recommendations from your neighbor. Just solid help, fast. Works on iOS and Android.
Handy
Handy’s got your back when it comes to all those "I’ll do it later" tasks you keep avoiding. Need someone to mount your new flat screen, hang up that gallery wall, or even move that heavy dresser?
This app connects you to pros who’ve been screened and vetted, so no guessing games on who's showing up. Just book the help you need and let someone else handle the hassle. Available on iOS and Android, so no excuses.
Angi
Angi’s basically your go-to for everything home project-related. Need someone to fix that squeaky floor, clean your carpets, or tackle an HVAC install? This app connects you with contractors who know their stuff and lets you pay them directly through the platform.
Plus, you can chat or even video call to hash out the details without leaving your couch. Works on both iOS and Android, so you're covered no matter what.
Home Improvement Apps for Design Inspiration
Design apps are like your personal hype squad for home makeovers. Stuck on how to arrange that awkward living room corner or what color to splash on your kitchen walls? These apps dish out ideas, help you sketch layouts, and even let you virtually rearrange furniture. They’re your creative sidekick, minus the judgment.
This app’s like having a bottomless Pinterest board in your pocket. Totally free and packed with style inspo, it’s your go-to for everything from picking that perfect paint shade to Marie Kondo-ing your chaotic closet. Dive into tutorials, scroll through blogs, and basically binge on ideas till your space screams "you."
Houzz
Houzz is like a hybrid between a Pinterest dream board and a DIY bible. It’s stacked with thousands of tutorials and articles to help you tackle projects solo or hook you up with pros to make your wildest design ideas come true.
Wanna see if that massive sectional fits your tiny living room? The visualization tool lets you virtually “install” furniture, so you don’t drop cash on a regret couch.
Home Improvement Apps from Furniture Stores
Furniture shopping just leveled up with augmented reality. Those specialty store apps let you drop that dreamy velvet armchair or industrial coffee table right into your living room—virtually, of course. No more lugging home a monster-sized piece only to realize it swallows your entire space. Just point, place, and decide, all while lounging on your current, soon-to-be-replaced sofa.
Wayfair’s
That 3D View in Room thing is like having a cheat code for home makeovers. You’re not just imagining how that bold rug or sleek sectional will fit—you’re actually seeing it, life-sized, smack in your space. Play around, move stuff, test vibes, and nail down your style without lifting anything heavier than your phone.
Bottom line
Home improvement apps like your digital toolbox—whether you’re planning, designing, or hiring pros, they’ve got you covered. Sure, some come with a price tag, but if you’re diving into regular projects, it might be worth skipping a latte or two for the subscription.
And hey, once you’ve nailed down the details with these apps, you’ll have a clearer picture of your budget and whether you need to hit up a lender for that big reno dream.