Whether you rent or own, feeling cozy and secure in your space is essential. But you might be making a few mistakes that could possibly make your home dangerous — and could definitely make you feel less secure. So, I found out from the professionals what potentially risky mistakes you could be making around the house and how to easily take care of them. Thankfully, these contractors have all of the solutions — and this list has plenty of budget-friendly and easy-to-use finds to help you out.
Cleaning of the lint screen after drying clothes is a must, but Traci Fournier, vice president of operations of One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, cautions that may not be enough. She says, “Over time, lint and other debris can build up and clog the dryer vents in spaces you can’t see. This can lead to house fires, musty and moldy smells, clothes taking longer to dry, and an increase in your utility bills."
A super easy way to tackle that hidden build-up is with something like this dryer vent cleaning kit. The hose adapter fits most vacuums, and the nozzle is shaped to fit into tight crevices. In addition to dryer vents, the tool can clean behind and underneath other appliances around the house.
This durable caulk makes it easy to fill in gaps and strengthen the seals in your home. Josh Riutta, a professional roofer and owner of Mikku and Sons Roofing, says tight seals are especially important because "cracked or damaged siding creates entry points for pests and moisture.” This 100% silicone sealant is mold- and mildew-resistant, won’t shrink, crack, or discolor, and dries in about 30 minutes. And you can use it indoors or out to prevent pests and moisture.
If you’re feeling intimidated by caulking, this handy (and budget-friendly) three-in-one tool helps from start to finish. The tool’s stainless-steel blade can remove old caulk, and the silicone triangle is great for smoothing fresh caulk. Meanwhile, the plastic scraper is perfect for more detailed cleanup. Plus, it has a soft-grip handle that can prevent hand fatigue.
If you find yourself stumbling down dim staircases, add these motion-activated LED stair lights to your cart ASAP. Riutta says that uneven walkways and steps can be trip hazards. But if you keep them well-lit with these clever stick-on lights, it will be easier to see each step. They’re battery-operated and long-lasting and can be mounted easily with either adhesive tape or hardware. And since they turn on and off automatically, they’re a low-effort way to make your home safer.
To illuminate uneven patios, deck stairs, and other outdoor spaces, grab these warm solar lights that charge fully in just four to five hours. Their L-shaped design wraps around stairs railings, fences, and more. Plus, they’re waterproof, so they’re ready to withstand the elements and can be installed anywhere that takes screws.
Slippery stairs can be an accident waiting to happen, so Riutta recommends using glow-in-the-dark treads such as these. They’re waterproof, so they’re perfect for an outdoor space, or anywhere you need more traction. The treads are made from 80-grit aluminum oxide for maximum traction and adhere to almost any smooth surface, including wood, metal, concrete, tile, or whatever outdoor surface you’re working with.
If you have jumbles of cords behind the TV or behind a desk, you’re not alone. But Riutta says that loose electrical cords could be a “fire hazard.” As a fix, he suggests “securing cords to walls or baseboards with cord covers." This cord management kit includes 152 pieces and has everything you need to keep things tidy. With stick-on cable holders, cable clips, braided cable sleeves, and self-adhesive ties, streamlining all of your wires and securing them to the wall is a........