What is Radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rocks, and water. It can seep into homes and buildings, posing a severe threat to human health. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for about 21,000 deaths every year.
How Does Radon Enter Your Home?
Radon enters your home through cracks and other openings in your home’s foundation. It can sneak through gaps between your foundation and walls, gaps in suspended floors, gaps around service pipes, and even through the spaces around electrical wires. It can also make its way through well water, which is then released in the air during activities such as showering and washing clothes.
How Do I Test for Radon?
Testing for Radon is the only way to know if your home has high levels of the gas. The EPA recommends conducting a test every two years, even if your previous test showed low levels of Radon. There are two types of test kits: short term and long term. A short-term test kit can check Radon levels for two to 90 days, while a long-term test kit can check levels for more than 90 days.
What Can I Do to Lower Radon Levels in My Home?
If a test reveals high levels of Radon in your home, it’s essential to take action to reduce the levels. There are three main ways to lower Radon levels in your home:
How Can I Ensure My Home is Safe from Radon?
Prevention is the key to keeping your home safe from Radon. New construction methods now include radon-resistant features, including a gas-permeable layer of rocks under the foundation and a plastic sheeting barrier to help prevent Radon from entering the home. If you plan to purchase a home, make sure to have it tested for Radon before making an offer. If high levels of Radon are discovered, it’s essential to discuss with the seller who will pay for Radon mitigation efforts.
Conclusion
Radon is a dangerous gas that can seep into your home without warning. Testing your home for Radon is the only way to know if your levels are high and require mitigation efforts. If you discover high levels of Radon in your home, rest assured there are steps you can take to reduce it. Looking to further investigate the subject? measure radon https://www.radontestkit.org, we’ve chosen this resource to supplement your learning.
Remember, prevention is always the best medicine when it comes to keeping your home safe from harmful gases such as Radon.
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