You may not have heard of radon, but it could very well be lurking in your home right now. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, has the potential to infiltrate homes and buildings, presenting a significant health hazard to individuals who inhale it. One in every fifteen homes in the U.S. has elevated radon levels, which is why it's important to know everything you can about radon mitigation. In this blog post, we'll dive into what radon is, how it can harm your health, and what you can do to protect yourself and your family.

What is Radon?

Radon, an imperceptible gas, arises naturally through the decay of uranium found in soil and rocks. Its presence is characterized by its colorlessness and lack of odor. Radon can seep into homes and buildings through cracks in the foundation, walls, floors, and other openings. It's important to note that radon can be found in buildings of any age and in any geographic location. Inhaling radon can lead to lung cancer, which is why it's crucial to have your home tested for radon levels regularly.

Health Risks of Radon Exposure

Radon exposure ranks as the second major contributor to lung cancer in the United States, surpassed only by smoking. This fact underscores the critical importance of addressing radon's impact on public health. Inhaling radon can harm lung cells, potentially resulting in the development of cancer. People who smoke and are exposed to radon have an even higher risk of developing lung cancer. The effects of radon exposure are long-term and may not be noticeable until years later.

How to Test for Radon Levels

To determine if your home has a radon problem, you can purchase a radon testing kit or hire a professional to perform a test. These tests typically involve the placement of a monitoring device in your home for a specified period of time, after which the results are analyzed. If your home has elevated levels of radon, don't panic. There are steps you can take to mitigate the risk.

Radon mitigation techniques involve reducing the levels of radon in your home to safe levels. Some common techniques include soil suction, which involves installing a system that draws radon from the soil and releases it outside; sealing cracks and other openings in your home's foundation; and installing ventilation systems that help to reduce radon levels. These techniques are typically performed by professionals with specialized knowledge and training in radon mitigation.

For more information about radon mitigation, reach out to a local service.