T
hrill-seekers can find their next adrenaline fix at home, if they're lucky enough to have a set of "death stairs." A viral Facebook group called "Death Stairs" showcases the most hazardous and bizarre step designs from around the world, starting with users' own homes.
The group, which has over 831,000 members, features images of steep, uneven, and downright treacherous staircases that defy conventional wisdom. According to its description, a staircase earns the "death stairs" label if it has a perilous or deadly property, such as a decaying structure or a hazardous design.
One popular post in the group shows a pipe-fitting staircase with no handrail, making for an extremely risky route between floors. Other examples include glass and rickety wood steps, as well as carpet patterns so complex they're hard to navigate.
Experts say that certain features are more common in homes around the world, including overly tight spiral staircases, steep steps, loft staircases with open sides, floating rail-less stairs, and glassy stairs. These designs can be hazardous, especially if not properly maintained or designed with safety in mind.
Home remodeling specialist Laura Madrigal notes that narrow spiral staircases often don't comply with minimum tread width requirements, while overly steep steps can be a tripping hazard. Loft staircases without railings or proper grip locations can also be treacherous.
Madrigal advises homeowners to install banisters on at least one side of their stairs and maintain good lighting and nonskid treads. She also recommends checking for loose steps, damaged handrails, or worn treads periodically.
Real estate agents Susan Freshcorn and Tony Mariotti warn that certain stair designs can be deal-breakers in properties they're showing to clients. Freshcorn recalls a senior couple who nixed a condo with floating stairs without a handrail, while Mariotti helped a client buy a home with steep backyard steps built in the 1920s.
Experts urge homeowners and potential buyers to be aware of the pitfalls associated with certain stair designs and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
