Radon Gas
Radon is a chemical element with the symbol Rn and atomic number 86. It is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and radioactive noble gas that is formed by the decay of radium, which itself is formed by the decay of uranium. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can be found in rocks, soil, and groundwater.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States after smoking, and is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year. The risk of lung cancer increases with higher levels of radon exposure and the longer the exposure duration. People who smoke and are also exposed to high levels of radon are at an even greater risk of developing lung cancer.
Symptoms of radon exposure are not immediate and can take years to develop. In addition to lung cancer, radon exposure has been linked to other respiratory illnesses such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
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Testing for radon levels in the home or workplace is recommended, as exposure to high levels of radon can be reduced through various mitigation methods, such as improving ventilation or sealing cracks in the foundation.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that all homes be tested for radon, regardless of where they are located. Radon levels can vary from home to home, even in the same neighborhood. Testing your home is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk.
Testing for radon is easy and relatively inexpensive. You can purchase a radon test kit online or at a hardware store. The kit comes with instructions on how to use it and where to send it for analysis. There are also professional radon testing services available if you prefer to have a qualified expert perform the test.
If you find that your home has high levels of radon, there are steps you can take to mitigate the problem and reduce your exposure. A qualified professional can help you determine the best course of action based on your test results. Here are some methods to mitigate radon:
Sealing cracks and gaps: Radon can enter homes through cracks and gaps in the foundation or walls. Sealing these openings can help reduce the amount of radon that enters your home.
Improving ventilation: Increasing the ventilation in your home can help reduce radon levels by bringing in more fresh air and diluting the concentration of radon in the air.
Installing a radon mitigation system: If your home has high levels of radon, a radon mitigation system may be necessary. These systems are designed to remove radon from the air and vent it outside your home. There are several types of radon mitigation systems, including active sub-slab depressurization, which involves installing a fan and vent pipe system under the foundation to draw radon out of the soil and away from the home.
Consulting a professional: It's always a good idea to consult with a qualified radon mitigation professional who can help you determine the best course of action for your specific situation. A professional can perform a more detailed assessment of your home and recommend the most effective mitigation strategies.
It's important to note that once a mitigation system is installed, you should continue to monitor radon levels in your home to ensure that the system is working properly and that radon levels remain low. Radon mitigation systems may need to be adjusted or maintained over time to ensure their effectiveness.
If you’d like to schedule a radon inspection, contact us now:
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