The Importance Of Radon Testing And Mitigation

Radon is an invisible, odorless, radioactive gas produced naturally by the earth. Radon is located in pockets throughout the United States and can become a health hazard when it accumulates in a home or building. Fortunately, simple tests are available to detect radon levels as well as methods for mitigating excessive amounts of this gas. Here's why radon testing and mitigation are important for your health and well-being.

Understanding Radon Levels

Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends taking action if the levels exceed 4 pCi/L. Radon testing is crucial to understanding what the radon level is in your home. While it is advisable to test for radon before purchasing a home, you can have radon testing done at any time. If you're unsure about the level of radon in your home, you should have it tested by a qualified professional.

It's also important to note that all homes should be tested, regardless of location or age. No house is immune from potential radon exposure. For example, your neighbor could have low radon levels, while your house could be much higher.

Radon Mitigation

If your home's radon levels exceed 4 pCi/L or higher, the EPA recommends that you reduce those levels as soon as possible. This process is known as radon mitigation, which involves sealing cracks and openings in the foundation walls and floors with caulking or urethane foam sealant to stop the entry of radon gas into the home. Additionally, a vent pipe and fan system exhaust any remaining gas from beneath the flooring up through the roof, where it can safely disperse into the atmosphere.

Health Risks Associated with High Radon Levels

The primary risk associated with prolonged exposure to elevated radon levels is lung cancer. In fact, radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after smoking. Research also suggests that high radon levels may also cause leukemia in children, underscoring the importance of ensuring your home is safe from exposure as much as possible.

Radon testing and mitigation are important steps for maintaining good health indoors. When left undetected or untreated, high concentrations of indoor air radiation can lead to serious health risks. There is no way to know if your home has elevated levels of radon without radon testing. Contact a professional today to schedule radon home testing and protect your family from this invisible killer gas.

 

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