10 Home Improvement Projects That Can Make Your Home Unsafe
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A great way to improve the comfort and value of your home is to take on home improvement projects. Not all upgrades are risk-free, and if you are not careful, your space can go from safe to unsafe.
Sometimes, the smallest change can have big consequences. In this post, we’ll discuss some common DIY projects that may unknowingly jeopardize your home’s safety.
Removing Load-Bearing Walls
Open floor plans are all the rage, but if you remove a load bearing wall, you can destabilize your home’s structure unless you do it right. If not supported properly, this can cause ceiling sagging, or worse, parts of the structure to collapse. It’s important to consult a professional before removing any walls to make sure the home stays standing. You should always know which walls are part of structural integrity.
Installing DIY Electrical Fixtures
It can seem easy to update the lighting and electrical fixtures, but incorrect wiring can cause fire hazards. Overheating, short circuits, or full electrical failure can occur because of poorly done electrical work. Wiring work should always be done in a manner which complies with local regulations, or at least hire a licensed electrician. Electrical upgrades should always be safe.
Inadequate Ventilation for Gas Appliances
If you’re getting a new stove or heater installed, make sure to think about proper ventilation first, or you may end up with dangerous buildup of gases like carbon monoxide. Small appliances such as gas dryers require good airflow around them to reduce the risk of toxic gas exposure. Inadequate ventilation poses serious health problems and even a fatal outcome. Vent all gas appliances correctly outside and buy carbon monoxide detectors.
Building Without Permits
According to HAR, skipping permits for small projects to save time and money can put your safety at risk and open you up to fines and legal troubles. Inspections are often required on projects like room additions, large decks, or plumbing changes because they involve changes to safety. Structural issues and hazards might go unnoticed, creating potential hazards to occupants. To keep your home safe, always check local regulations and obtain permits as required.
Using Inappropriate Materials for Plumbing
Incorrect or low-quality materials used for plumbing work will likely result in leaks, corrosion, and flooding. For example, selecting the wrong piping material for hot water lines will eventually wear down over time and make water damage a possibility. With all that in mind, poor plumbing also affects water quality, which can impact health and safety. Make sure you use the right material and the best practices to save money and prevent costly and dangerous plumbing incidents.
Installing High Shelves or Heavy Fixtures Wrong
If you have high shelves or heavy fixtures such as wall-mounted TVs or mirrors, they can be dangerous if not properly anchored. If these items fall, they can cause serious injuries or damage to other parts of the home. Incorrect installations of these items are particularly risky in households with children or pets. Accidents can be prevented with the use of appropriate hardware and proper installations.
Poorly Sealing Doors and Windows
Sealing doors and windows to stop drafts is generally part of energy efficiency projects, but overly tight seals can also trap moisture. Mold growth can result from this, damaging your home and posing health risks. Poor ventilation can also allow indoor air pollutants to get into your home.
Chimney Maintenance Neglected
If you’re renovating a home with a chimney, be sure to check its structural and functional integrity. An unused or uncleaned chimney can trap smoke and greenhouse gases, which are unhealthy. If the chimney isn’t maintained regularly, the chimney will be at risk for chimney fires. Even if you don’t use them often, have a professional inspect and clean chimneys annually.
Installing Stairs Without Railing or Using Slippery Materials
The stairs are usually renovated for aesthetic reasons, but using overly polished or too slippery materials makes them more prone to falls. Staircases can be dangerous for kids and the elderly, especially if you skip railings or use less secure designs. One of the most common types of home injuries is falls on stairs, so stairway safety is especially important when upgrading your stairways. Think about materials that have more grip, and always install solid railings.
DIY Roofing Without Glove, Boots or Safety Goggles
Saving money is an attempt made by many to repair or upgrade their roof by doing it themselves, but doing so at such height without the proper equipment is dangerous work. Minor roof repairs can put you at risk of falls or accidents from tools slipping. Leaking and structural problems can also be caused by poor or inadequate roofing work. If you must work on the roof, take safety seriously, and invest in protecting yourself from the elements, and if you cannot do it yourself, hire a professional
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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