Test your house for radon

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is responsible for thousands of lung cancer deaths each year. Smokers who are exposed to radon have an even higher risk of developing lung cancer compared to non-smokers.

The presence of radon in the soil beneath a building is a natural occurrence. The concentration of radon can vary from one location to another and can be influenced by factors such as soil composition, geology, and ventilation patterns. Even well-sealed homes can have radon entry points, as it can penetrate through very small openings.

What is radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It is formed from the decay of uranium, which is present in small amounts in rocks and soil. Radon is considered a health hazard when it accumulates to high levels indoors, particularly in enclosed spaces like homes and buildings.

What are the health risks of radon?

Radon is the #1 cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Exposure to high levels of radon in indoor air results in an increased risk of developing lung cancer. The risk of cancer depends on the level of radon and how long a person is exposed to those levels.

How radon can get to your house?

Radon can enter a house or building through openings and gaps in the foundation, floors, walls, and other areas where the building contacts the ground. Here are some common entry points for radon:

1. Cracks in foundation: Radon can seep through cracks in the foundation floor, walls, and mortar joints. These cracks may occur due to natural settling of the building or other factors.
2. Construction joints: Radon can enter through gaps or joints in construction materials, such as where the foundation meets the walls or where different parts of the foundation are joined together.
3. Gaps around service pipes: Radon can enter through openings around pipes, drains, or utility lines that penetrate the foundation or basement walls. These gaps may be created during construction or develop over time due to aging or movement.
4. Crawl spaces: If a building has a crawl space beneath it, radon can seep through the soil and enter the building through openings in the crawl space floor or walls. Radon can then migrate to upper levels of the building through gaps in the floor or walls.
5. Sump pumps and floor drains: If a building has a sump pump or floor drain, radon can enter through these openings and be distributed throughout the building.

Once inside, radon can become trapped and accumulate to unsafe concentrations. Breathing in radon gas over time can increase the risk of developing lung cancer, particularly for those who are exposed to high levels of radon for extended periods.

Test your house for radon

To determine if radon is entering your home, radon testing is necessary. Radon test kits can be purchased for at-home testing, or professional radon testing services can be employed for more accurate results. If elevated radon levels are found, appropriate measures can be taken to mitigate radon and reduce the health risks associated with it.

What you can do if the radon’s level is high?

If the radon levels in your home are found to be high, there are several steps you can take to mitigate radon and reduce the health risks associated with prolonged exposure. It is advisable to consult with a qualified radon mitigation professional that specializes in reducing radon levels in homes. They can assess your specific situation, conduct further testing if needed, and provide guidance on the most effective mitigation options for your home.

Mitigation techniques

Radon mitigation techniques aim to reduce radon levels by preventing its entry into the home or by removing it from the indoor air. Common mitigation techniques include:

• Sub-slab depressurization: This method involves installing a ventilation system that draws radon from beneath the foundation and safely vents it outdoors.
• Sump pump depressurization: If your home has a sump pump, it can be modified to serve as a radon mitigation system by installing a vent pipe and fan.
• Sealing and caulking: Gaps and cracks in the foundation, walls, and floors can be sealed to minimize radon entry points.
• Crawlspace encapsulation: For homes with crawl spaces, the installation of a vapor barrier and proper ventilation can help prevent radon infiltration.

Remember, taking action to mitigate radon is crucial for long-term health and safety. Even after mitigation, it is recommended to test radon levels periodically to ensure that they remain within acceptable limits. Radon levels can fluctuate over time due to various factors, so regular testing helps ensure ongoing safety.