Sure, many trends come to stay, and you can say the same about the trends in the world of home design. With people going minimalistic and others trying to live a greener life, there have been many design trends that pop up that have wowed many people as the next best thing.

Unfortunately, many home inspectors can find it difficult to watch as homeowners make poor design choices that can lead to safety hazards. And, to make things worse, many of these poor design choices are actually trendy choices, meaning that many homeowners are living at risk of injuries or worse.

That being said, although these trends may seem stylish and modern, they can often be dangerous and should be avoided. Here are a couple of unsafe design trends that you should avoid doing (or at least do it right):

1. Open Shelving

Open shelving is a popular design trend right now, but it can be a major safety hazard. Shelves that extend too far out from the wall can be easily tipped over, leading to potential injuries and property damage. It’s best to limit the amount of open shelving you have in your home and use caution when installing them.

2. Poorly-Installed Carpets

Carpets can be a great way to add warmth and texture to a room, but if they’re not properly installed, they can be a major safety concern. Loose carpets can cause people to slip and fall, which can lead to serious injuries. Make sure to hire a professional installer for your carpets to ensure that they are installed correctly.

3. Unsecured Rugs

Many people use rugs to add a decorative touch to their homes, but these rugs should also be secured to the floor. Unsecured rugs can be a tripping hazard, so make sure to use rug tape or double-sided tape to keep them in place. Many rugs now already come with rubber bottoms to maintain grip, so they’re good options if you don’t want to deal with tape.

4. Floating Staircases

Many homes now have staircases designed to be minimal. While they may look great, these floating designs are nothing but trouble. For one, many of these designs lack handrails which is a huge safety risk. And those that do use handrails that aren’t even graspable. Ensure that you design your stairs with safety as a priority because it is all fun and games until someone gets hurt.

5. High-Pile Carpets

High-pile carpets can be quite luxurious, but they can also be a major fire hazard. The high-pile fibers can trap and retain heat, which can lead to an increased risk of fire. If you’re considering a high-pile carpet, make sure to choose one that is labeled as fire-resistant. Also, be sure to clean them often.

Conclusion

When it comes to home design, safety should always be your top priority. Investing in safety features such as handrails on staircases, fire-resistant materials, and careful consideration of potential hazards can go a long way in ensuring that your home is as safe as possible. Don’t take any risks when it comes to home design, as the consequences can be dire!

Ally Property Inspections offer professional residential home inspection services to help homeowners uncover problems to address for a safer home. If you are looking for a home inspector in Birmingham, AL, work with us today.