How to Prevent Trip Hazards Around Your Home

The safety of your loved ones begins right at your doorstep. Many of us take the concrete slabs around our homes for granted, but they can pose significant trip hazards if they are uneven or damaged. The United States witnesses a high number of trips and falls each year, and uneven concrete is often a contributing factor. To ensure the safety of your family and guests, it's crucial to inspect your property regularly and ensure that your concrete walkways, patios, stairs, pool decks, and other concrete areas are safe and well-maintained. 

Trip-Proof Your Property for Greater Safety

1) Identifying Trip Hazards:

The American Disabilities Act defines a trip hazard as any difference in elevation of 1/4 inch or more, and obstructions or poor lighting can make these hazards even more dangerous. Given that most people enter and exit their homes via concrete walkways and driveways, it's essential to watch out for signs of trip hazards and address them quickly.

2) Repairing Cracked and Uneven Concrete:

• Most elevation differences in concrete slabs occur at joints or between slabs. These discrepancies are often caused by changes in moisture content beneath the slab, leading to soil settlement. Not only can this be a tripping hazard, but it can also be damaging to vehicles and bikes.

3) Enhancing Concrete Stair Safety:

• Concrete stairs can be significantly less forgiving than carpeted steps in the event of a fall. If you have concrete stairs on your property, ensure that they have sturdy railings for support. If you notice your concrete stairs pulling away from your home's foundation or see large cracks and gaps, it might be time to consider concrete leveling.

4) Addressing Tree Roots in Concrete:

• Over time, tree roots can grow through concrete, creating potential tripping hazards. To minimize the risk of falls, repair the concrete slabs as soon as you notice any issues.

5) Prioritizing Pool Deck Safety:

• Pool decks should be in top shape to prevent dangerous tripping hazards and water pooling that can accelerate deterioration. Uneven slabs around the pool area are a recipe for accidents.

6) Seasonal Maintenance:

• Different seasons bring various challenges to your exterior concrete. Ice and snow in winter, leaves in the fall, rain and debris in the spring, and strong UV rays in the summer can all affect your concrete. To prevent further trip hazards, ensure that cracked, uneven, or slippery concrete is kept clean and dry as much as possible.

7) Adequate Lighting:

• Proper lighting is crucial to avoid falls, especially at night. Well-lit concrete walkways can make a significant difference in safety.

8) Keep Walkways Clear:

• Clearing your concrete walkways of debris and obstacles is a simple yet effective way to eliminate additional trip hazards.

Don't overlook the condition of your concrete. Whether it's uneven walkways, cracked pool decks, or any signs of settling, take action promptly. Delaying the repair of concrete issues can make solutions more expensive and invasive. By making the concrete around your home safer, you can reduce the risk of serious injuries. To learn how our PolyLevel and NexusPro systems can help address tripping hazards around your property, schedule your free estimate today!