The outside of your home can be hazardous, and it’s crucial to safety proof it to prevent accidents. Whether it’s keeping your family safe or ensuring the safety of your guests, there are plenty of precautions you can take to make your home’s exterior safer. Here are a few tips that can help you safety-proof the outside of your house.
1. Install Outdoor Lighting:
A well-lit exterior is essential to keep your family and guests safe. Install outdoor lighting at all exterior entrances of your home. This can help illuminate the path to your front door, deter intruders, and prevent tripping on uneven ground and obstacles. Consider placing easy-to-access light switches near each entrance to your home to make it easy for everyone to turn them on and off.
2. Keep Your Pathways Clear:
Pathways around your home should be free of hazards. Keep your lawn neat and tidy by regularly mowing the grass, trimming the bushes, and clearing away any debris. Remove any toys or other objects that may cause tripping hazards and ensure that your driveway and walkways are free of any potholes or cracks that could trip someone.
3. Repair or Replace Damaged Siding, Roofing, and Gutters:
Damaged siding, roofing or gutters can be a potential safety hazard. Broken shingles on your roof or damage to your gutters can cause water damage, while broken siding can let water penetrate the heating and air conditioning systems of your home, resulting in costly repairs. Schedule routine roof inspections, and if you notice any damage, repair or replace it before a small issue becomes a big one.
4. Secure Your Outdoor Furniture:
Outdoor furniture can be a potential hazard if it’s not secured properly. Make sure items such as chairs, tables, and other outdoor accessories are secured down during high wind or inclement weather conditions. A gust of wind can cause unpredictable damage and hurt someone if the furniture becomes a projectile. Secure them using special straps or by weighting them down with sandbags or heavy bricks.
5. Ensure Proper Drainage:
Your home’s drainage system is vital in preventing water damage to the inside or outside of your home. Ensure that your gutters and downspouts are in good repair and free from any clogs or debris that may cause water to backflow into your home. Water damage can be costly and dangerous, so proper drainage is imperative.
6. Install Handrails and Guardrails:
Install handrails for your stairs, walkways, patios, and any other steps and guardrails for balconies and decks. These can help prevent falls and make it easier for older adults and people with mobility problems to move around safely. Make sure that the handrails are anchored securely and can withstand an adult’s full weight in an emergency.
7. Trim Overgrown Trees and Shrubs:
Do not neglect your landscaping and overgrown trees and shrubs can become a safety hazard. These can fall, causing injury or damage to your home or property. Make sure to trim any overgrowth and dead branches.
In conclusion, safety-proofing the outside of your home can be quick, easy, and cost-effective. Regular maintenance and upkeep can save you money on potentially costly repairs in the future. Keep these tips in mind to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of your family, guests, and property. And if you need help with any plumbing-related problems or repairs, be sure to give Ace Plumbing Repair a call at (844) 711-1590 or visit our website at aceplumbingrepair.com.