Handymen say these common, shoddy mistakes make your home dangerous & waste money

Tyler Hull, professional contractor with Modern Exterior Roofing in Wisconsin, recommends paying attention to the outside of your home first. He says, “Clogged downspouts push water behind siding and under shingles, which rots wood and breeds mold.[...] I have cut out rotted fascia boards that cost $800 to $2,000 to replace because someone skipped a $10 gutter scoop. You want to clear those out every spring and fall. No exceptions.” This gutter scoop does the job just right, with a high handle position that helps protect your hand while keeping it well out of the way. This simple tool is also built with an extended tongue for more reach.

When it comes to safety, Hull says, “I have patched up more drywall and replaced more broken balusters after falls than I can count. Any stair over three steps without a solid rail is a lawsuit waiting to happen. For under $70, you can bolt a code-compliant rail into the studs. It takes an hour and makes your stairs safer for kids, pets, and anyone with bad knees.” This wall-mounted staircase handrail will solve your problem quite easily. Made of sturdy iron with modern, rounded edges, it’s available in four sizes and two finishes to suit any stair space. You can install it on wood, concrete, and solid brick — as well as drywall with special drywall anchors.

• Available sizes: 4
• Available finishes : 2

Stairways aren’t the only spaces that may need an added security element — your bathtub might, too. This adjustable bathtub safety rail is specifically designed to help prevent accidents and falls while still being lightweight and easy to install. This best-seller can help safely support up to 300 pounds of weight and includes a padded rubber clamp that locks in place.

“Dim or single-bulb fixtures in halls and stairways lead to stubbed toes and falls,” explains Hull. “Swapping out for bright, energy-efficient LED bulbs [...] makes a difference. I have seen folks try to save on electricity, then spend $300 at urgent care after a nighttime tumble.” Give this two-pack of three-way LED light bulbs a try. With three dimmable brightness levels, the LED bulbs save electricity and personalize the illumination to the needs of each space — use the brightest setting to enhance safety and visibility.

“Gaps as small as a pencil let out heat fast, sometimes driving up utility costs by 25% or more over the winter,” Hull says. “I have run thermal cameras in dozens of old homes and watched money pour out through unsealed frames. For $30 in weather stripping, you can save hundreds each season and keep your place comfortable.” To prevent jacked-up energy bills, seal your windows to increase climate control with this window-sealing tape. Made from weather-resistant material, it’s reliable for year-long wear. Besides keeping out rain, heat, and cold, it also blocks other unwelcome visitors like tiny bugs.

Hull warns, “Skipping routine drain cleaning will cost you sooner or later. Even small clogs lead to overflows or leaks under sinks, which warp cabinets and ruin flooring. I mean, we replaced a kitchen floor last month that started with a $3 hairball in a bathroom trap. Every homeowner should run a $15 snake through each drain every few months. Water always finds the weak point.” This three-pack of drain snakes will help do the trick. Each bendable stick has grippy teeth to grab hair and other unwanted gunk as you pull it out of the drain — just insert it, rotate it a few times, and voilà. It’s an easier and cheaper way to prevent clogs before they start and is gentler than many liquid solutions, too.

Another way to fight against clogs is to prevent them in the first place with this bathtub drain protector, aptly named the TubShroom. Boasting a 4.7-star overall rating on Amazon after 61,000 reviews, the stainless steel hair catcher fits neatly inside most drains, easily collecting hair without blocking water flow. Compatible with most tubs using the included adapters, it’s a no-brainer preventative.

Keep your bathroom sink free from freshly shaven hair trimmings with this genius beard apron. As seen on Shark Tank, this easy-to-use catcher keeps your bathroom surfaces spotless and helps prevent clogs like a champ. It has strong suction cups that secure to the mirror, creating a hammock to catch fallen hair.

• Available colors: 5

Uri Pearl, owner of Nealon Insulation in Clinton, Connecticut, says, “You’d be surprised how many homes we walk into that either don’t have smoke detectors where they should be or haven’t replaced them in over a decade. Same goes for carbon monoxide detectors, which are obviously crucial, but often ignored. These are inexpensive, life-saving devices that you can order online and install in under 10 minutes.” To ensure you have both products, add this combination smoke and carbon monoxide detector to your cart for multitasking peace of mind. It’s equipped with a long-lasting lithium battery that lasts up to 10 years and easily mounts to any wall or ceiling.

Having an up-to-date and accessible fire extinguisher in your home is an absolute must. This model by First Alert is a great pick, boasting a 4.8-star overall rating after 48,000 reviews. It’s built with a durable all-metal construction, a commercial-grade valve, and a corrosion-resistant gauge. It’s rechargeable, Coast Guard approved, and fights fires caused by wood, paper, oil, and even electrical equipment.

Pearl also recommends regular dryer maintenance: “Lint builds up faster than people expect, especially in busy households. A clogged dryer vent also forces the dryer to run longer, which wastes energy.” Routinely using a dryer vent cleaning kit can help to keep things running smoothly and safely. Compatible with most vacuums, this flexible tool reaches deep into tight, curved vents to remove years of lint buildup in just a few minutes. Using it will help prevent fire risk while also upgrading efficiency — which can mean lower energy bills.

Pearl also reminds homeowners of an affordable fix that can save hundreds, if not thousands: “One of the most common and costly mistakes we see is homeowners skipping thorough, proper air sealing. Gaps around windows, doors, attics, and rim joists let conditioned air escape in the winter and bring hot, humid air inside in the summer. It’s like trying to heat or cool your home with the windows cracked open. Your systems work overtime, bills go up, and it also affects indoor air quality.” Install these stick-on draft stoppers on every outside-facing door for all-season protection. They’ll instantly create a seal that fills gaps between doors and floors. Available in multiple colors, they’re backed with strong adhesive and can be trimmed to size.

• Available colors: 4

Since Pearl recommends paying attention to attic insulation, it’s worth taking a second look at this attic stairway insulation cover that keeps out drafts and unwanted airflow from the highest space in your home. It’s made with fireproof aluminum and bubble insulation, reflecting 97% of radiant heat. The zipper design means it’s still easy to access your attic as needed. Plus, it helps seal out dust, moisture, and pollutants.

Mehndi Khechani, founder of JMK Contractor in Miami, says, “Homeowners often neglect adding nonslip mats or textured flooring in bathrooms, laundry rooms, or entryways. This turns a small splash into a major fall risk, especially for kids and seniors. A few affordable anti-slip solutions can prevent serious injuries.” Opt to use something like this memory foam bath mat that’s so cushy underfoot and looks sleek, too, thanks to its pebble design. It’s ultra absorbent, easy to wash, and available in a variety of sizes and colors to match your decor.

• Available sizes: 7
• Available colors: 9

In keeping with the nonslip theme, this 24-pack of tub grips is another way to add a layer of safety to your home with ease. A smart alternative to bulky tub mats, each sticker has 1,250 tiny protrusions for enhanced grip and water flow. They’re also easy to install with the included scraper and remove without residue.

• Available colors: 6

Besides adding slip resistance courtesy of the textured backing, this anti-fatigue kitchen mat also helps you stay comfortable as you cook and clean. It’s built with 0.5 inch of memory foam with a lightly textured top surface, and it has tapered edges to help prevent tripping. Available in 13 sizes and 16 styles for an almost-custom look, it’s easy to clean with a wet towel.

• Available sizes: 13
• Available styles: 16

Keep your floors clean and dry, even in high-traffic areas, with this microfiber indoor doormat. Specifically designed to trap mud, dirt, and water, its super absorbent fibers quickly soak up moisture from rain, snow, and sleet — which can help prevent slippery surfaces in your home. It has a nonslip backing to ensure it stays firmly in place, while its low-profile design lets doors glide over easily.

• Available sizes: 9
• Available colors: 9

Another way to help prevent slips and falls caused by slippery surfaces is by adding a heavy-duty boot tray to your entry. The tray has raised edges to keep liquid, debris, and melted ice from leaking out onto the floor, adding an extra element of safety.

• Available colors: 4

Khechani also recommends optimizing your energy efficiency with a smart vent cover. “Furniture placed in front of vents or dirty HVAC filters restricts airflow, straining your heating and cooling systems. This not only jacks up your energy bill but can also cause system failure. Smart vent covers and reminder-enabled air filter replacements are great solutions.” This 10-speed smart vent cover allows you to personalize your climate and can be easily controlled by the included remote. It has 10 fan speed levels, making it more efficient and customizable than traditional vents. It’s available in nine finishes to suit your style.

• Available finishes: 9

Khechani mentions that dirty HVAC filters can “restrict airflow” and recommends reminder-enabled refills. This four-pack of HVAC replacement filters can be set on Amazon’s Subscribe & Save program, so you’ll never have to set reminders to restock again. Boasting a stellar 4.7-star overall rating after more than 149,000 reviews, the MERV 8 filters help guard against mold, dust, and other allergens. Choose from tons of size options to fit your system.

• Available sizes: 124

“Dim or flickering lighting in key areas like stairways, basements, or kitchens increases the chance of accidents,” says Khechani. “It’s a simple fix: Replace outdated fixtures with motion-sensor or LED lighting. It's safer and you'll save money over time on energy use.” This two-pack of motion-sensor night-lights is a highly rated and budget-friendly buy. They have a sleek, simple construction and dimmable brightness. Plug them in wherever you think you can use a bit of extra illumination.

• Available colors: 5

For motion-activated illumination without a plug, add this sconce light to your cart. Choose between constant-on or automatic mode, which turns the light on when it senses activity within 13 feet, then turns it off again after 15 seconds. The rechargeable light features a magnetic base, so you can remove it to power it up as needed.

• Available colors: 8

Stairways can be particularly precarious, which is why it’s a good idea to add extra illumination to help prevent trips and falls. These motion-sensor stair lights emit a warm glow as they activate automatically within 10 feet and shut off after 30 seconds. Easy to install with the included screws or adhesive, they’re battery powered and wire free.

Seth Wuollet, owner of Midwest Flooring in Minnesota, says, “I’ve seen more than a few nasty falls that could’ve been prevented with something as simple as nonslip rug pads or grip strips. These cost next to nothing, but they can seriously reduce the chance of someone wiping out.” These rug corner grippers tackle the scourge of curled corners, helping to ward off tripping. Simply stick them on to the corners of your rug and they’ll stay put thanks to the strong, residue-free adhesive gel. When you need to clean the floor underneath, simply lift them up.

If you really want to make sure your rugs don’t budge, opt for this heavy-duty carpet tape. You can apply it along every edge of your rug for a completely stay-put fit. The tape is made with a residue-free adhesive, so it won’t damage surfaces while still being durable and weatherproof. Its double-sided design works on hardwood floors, tile, and even carpet.

“Dragging chairs, couches, or tables across your floor without protectors is like giving your flooring a slow, painful death,” says Wuollet. “Furniture sliders, pads, or silicone covers are cheap, easy to apply, and they save your floors — especially if you move things around often,” he explains. This set of chair leg covers can help keep your floor pristine. They’re super easy to install (just slide them over furniture legs) and you can leave them be, as their clear coloring will blend right in. They’re made from stretchy silicone with felt bottoms that glide easily across surfaces without scratching.

Moving furniture around is one of the top ways you can damage the floors in your home, but these furniture sliders help prevent that. The eight-piece set includes four smooth sliders for carpet and four fuzzy sliders for hardwood or tile floors — perfect for safeguarding all surfaces. At 5 inches wide, they ensure optimal weight distribution and scratch-free movement.

“Any time water can sneak under your floor — around tubs, sinks, or toilets — you’re risking more than just a puddle,” Wuollet warns. “Over time, moisture seeps in and damages the subfloor, which can lead to mold, soft spots, or rot. All that from skipping a $10 tube of caulk or a roll of sealing trim.” Give this best-selling caulk and sealant a try. It’s easy to use thanks to its precise spout, works indoors or out, and is completely waterproof once it’s dry. “A quick seal around those spots can save you a massive repair bill later,” Wuollet adds.

This waterproof caulk tape strip is another foolproof way to seal up cracks around your bathroom or kitchen. Made from high-quality PVC with a flexible, creased design, it folds neatly into corners for a clean, professional-looking finish. Ideal for use around tubs, sinks, countertops, and toilets, it adheres to smooth surfaces and can be trimmed to size.

How you clean your floors matters, too. “A lot of people unknowingly ruin their floors just by trying to clean them. Bleach or vinegar might sound like good deep-cleaners, but they can strip finish, leave streaks, or even damage certain materials like laminate or hardwood,” says Wuollet. The fix? “Stick with pH-neutral cleaners or ones made specifically for your floor type. It keeps them looking good and lasting longer.” This floor cleaner is specially designed for wood and laminate and easily tackles grime without streaks. Gentle yet powerful, it’s a cinch to use: Simply spray and mop.

Karen Watts, founder of DomiSource, a support platform for new homeowners, advises paying attention to electrical fire risk; she says, “I have seen melted plastic fused to wall outlets because someone tried to run a space heater, a television, and a charger hub off the same power strip, especially behind beds and dressers. This is not only ineffective, but also dangerous and could start a fire. [...] For under $30, you can purchase smart power strips with overload protection and flat, rotating extension plugs that can fit behind furniture with low clearance.” This smart power strip keeps your electronics protected and charged up with three independently controllable outlets and two always-on USB ports. You can set timers and schedules and cut power as needed to individual sockets. It’s compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, too.

Per Watt’s advice, this flat, rotating extension plug is perfect for power access behind furniture. With a swiveling design, it fits into tight spaces, while three grounded outlets on different sides let you power multiple devices, all at the same time. With built-in surge protection and a 6-inch cord, it safeguards your electronics and keeps cords neat, too.

• Available styles: 7
• Available colors: 2

If you’ve noticed a crack in your foundation, window, or other exterior element, pause before you take a tube of standard caulk to it. Watts explains, “Many people grab a tube of kitchen and bath caulk and start sealing joints, even outside cracks or high-flex zones. That product fails quickly in areas with actual movement or in the wrong temperatures. I've had to repair dozens of $10 DIY caulking jobs that resulted in over $1,000 in water damage. Use elastomeric or polyurethane caulk for areas with expansion and/or UV exposure, such as foundation cracks, siding seams, and window frames. It may cost $5 more, but it works.” This caulk can be used on a variety of surfaces, including masonry, brick, plaster, and drywall. You can paint over it once it dries.

Want to prevent major house damage? Guard your gutters. Watts says, “When the gutters are clogged, they're not just causing puddles, they're spilling into your fascia, behind your siding, and around your foundation without any sign. I've walked into homes where the drywall is cracked, and the floors are buckling, all from gutters no one cleaned for the last two seasons. At a bare minimum, you want to clean them every fall and spring. Better yet, you can buy a debris guard to solve a problem at the top.” This heavy-duty aluminum guard does the trick. It prevents debris from falling into your gutter while still allowing for water flow. It can easily handle downpours while being invisible from the ground. An added perk — it’s easy to install, too.

• Available sizes: 16

Have you paid attention to your outlets lately? “Power points that are loose and shift when plugging something into them may not seem like an urgent issue but they actually wear out the contacts inside,” says Caspar Matthews, director at Electcomm Electrical Contractors in Melbourne, Australia. He adds, “This causes arcing and it generates heat. I’ve seen melted wall plates and burnt wiring from an outlet being left loose for too long. A new wall plate or properly secured mount could have avoided damage that ultimately cost hundreds.” If you have loose plates, grab a two-pack of these simple, classic outlet covers made of solid zinc alloy. Featuring elegant framing and modern color options, they’re an aesthetic upgrade too.

• Available styles: 27
• Available colors: 3

One shoddy mistake Matthews recommends against is using the wrong kind of tape to patch up frayed wires. “I have actually seen a power board short out because someone [patched] a frayed cord with packing tape. That instantly destroyed a refrigerator and a laptop computer. To avoid that sort of loss, proper self-fusing electrical tape is very inexpensive.” In line with what Matthews suggests is this self-fusing silicone repair tape. The adhesive-free bond sticks only to itself and is resistant to corrosion, chemicals, and heat. It handles both high and low temperatures and can even be used on garden hoses.

Another area Matthews says to watch out for is your floors: “Loose floor trims in between tiles and carpet are often overlooked but they can be a real danger. As screws lift, they catch shoes or toes. One of my clients had a cleaner trip over one and crack a tile and bent the trim. A $5 screw and glue could have prevented the fall as well as the $150 in repairs.” This maximum-strength construction adhesive can help keep floor trim and transition areas more safely tacked down. It is waterproof, is paintable, and has a crystal clear finish. Use it indoors or out and on any surface — even under water.

Another way to help prevent floor trim mishaps is with this transition strip. Its low-profile design fills gaps that might otherwise catch toes, while helping to create a smooth transition surface between tile, wood, or carpet. The easy peel-and-stick installation requires no tools, and the waterproof, matte finish blends right in.

• Available sizes: 11
• Available colors: 10

Carl McDowell, president of basement waterproofing service Canada Waterproofers, says, “Those tiny cracks in your basement wall might not seem urgent... until they invite moisture, mold, and structural damage. Water always finds a way in. Use a high-quality waterproof sealant for early-stage cracks.” Give this crack flex sealant a try. It has a highly elastic formula that resists cracking and tearing in moveable surfaces like foundations, while the gray, textured finish blends seamlessly with concrete. Besides basement walls, you can use it on driveways, walkways, and patios. The only caveat to this fix? “If water’s already seeping in, it's time to call pros for full exterior or interior waterproofing.”

“Your sump pump is your home's bouncer against basement flooding,” explains McDowell. “But like any appliance, it can fail — especially during heavy rain or a power outage. Get a battery backup system like the Basement Watchdog emergency sump pump battery backup.” This battery backup is a reliable must-have for any basement, with no fluid checks or refills needed. Depending on the system in your home, the battery provides up to 80 hours of protection during outages.

McDowell also recommends adding a water leak detector, calling it “a lifesaver when you're away from home.” You can connect up to 10 sensors at once via a powerful Wi-Fi gateway for real-time water detection alerts by app, email, or phone. Each sensor features a drip and leak detection probe, adjustable volume, and a loud alarm for clear alerts.

Protect the surfaces of your cabinets with this under-sink mat available in six sizes and three colors. It’s designed with a 1-inch raised edge that’s equipped to contain over 2.5 gallons of liquid, whether that’s from a pipe leak or cleaning fluid spill. The mat helps prevent damage and is made of flexible, waterproof silicone.

• Available sizes: 6
• Available colors: 3

McDowell says, “Without a backwater valve, heavy rainfall can push dirty sewer water back up into your home. It’s gross, it’s expensive, and sadly, it’s common.” To prevent that, consider this two-pack of backflow preventers. They serve as a barrier of sorts, keeping contaminated water from flowing back into potable (aka drinkable) systems. With drain holes to prevent freezing and break-off screws for secure installation, the valves are ideal for outdoor faucets, RVs, and hose bibs. The set includes washers, tape, and a storage box.

Alex Smith, founder and co-owner of architectural rendering service Render3DQuick, says, “A costly mistake homeowners make is failing to properly secure televisions and tall, unstable furniture, creating significant tip-over hazards, especially for young children. Unsecured items like dressers and bookcases pose a severe, often overlooked threat.” His simple fix? Anti-tip furniture anchors. Boasting a 4.7-star overall rating, this particular set secures furniture up to 400 pounds for some serious peace of mind. They’re easy to install, too: Simply affix one side to the furniture piece and the other to the wall, then use the durable cord to lock them together.

• Available colors: 2

When securing your furniture, don’t forget to also secure large appliances like your flat-screen TV. This two-pack of anti-tip television straps and a couple of tools are all you need to securely fasten your screen to your media console or dresser in just minutes. The straps are adjustable for a custom fit and come with sturdy mounting screws to support up to 400 pounds.

Rick Safeman, handyman and owner of Sapien Lighting in Austin, warns of insufficient lighting, saying, “Single overhead fixtures (e.g, one light for an entire staircase, a single pendant over kitchen islands) create dangerous shadow zones exactly where people work with sharp tools, hot surfaces, or navigate stairs.” Try these super-easy-to-install cabinet lights. They come two in a pack and are made with auto-on motion detection, have an always-on mode, and boast five brightness levels so they can adapt to your needs. They charge via USB-C for long-lasting use without wiring.

Per Safeman’s warning, light up your outdoor stairs with this pack of step lights. The ultra-thin, solar-powered step lights feature 24 bright LEDs that help enhance safety and add ambience to your outdoor space. Built with waterproof, weather-resistant materials, they charge in just four to five hours and automatically illuminate at dusk.

Keep yourself from becoming a thing that goes “bump” in the night with this portable motion-sensor light that delivers up to 80 hours of light on one charge. Dimmable with five brightness levels, it turns on automatically in the dark when motion is detected, making it ideal for nighttime navigation. Plus, you can place it anywhere — no plugs needed.

• Available colors: 4

Eric Bramlett, realtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate in Texas, points out a simple add-on — a door stopper. “A simple door stopper can prevent doors from slamming into walls and causing damage. It’s a small addition, but it keeps things running smoothly, improves safety, and can actually help you avoid paying for repairs later,” he explains. These door handle stoppers act like bumpers, keeping your wall protected from surface damage. The clear design means they blend right in with surfaces for a seamless look.

Looking to cut costs on your electricity bill? Bramlett recommends trying window film. “Applying window film reduces how much heat you gain in summer and how much you lose in winter. It’s an easy DIY project that helps lower your energy bills over time, all while giving you a little extra privacy.” This one-way window privacy film blocks up to 90% of UV rays and 89% of infrared rays, working to lower the temperature in your home while delivering reliable privacy, too. The adhesive installation creates a secure, long-lasting grip.

• Available sizes: 15
• Available colors: 8