As a homeowner, it is important to know about the dangers of radon, and the effects it may have on you and your loved ones. By understanding what it is, how to test for it, and what you can do to fix the problem, it will help ensure that everyone in your home is safe.
What Is Radon?
Radon is an odorless and invisible gas that has a potential to seep into your home. It comes from the earth's crust, as uranium breaks down and mixes into the air. Radon can cause cancer to those that breathe it in, as the EPA reports that there are 21,000 lung cancer deaths related to radon each year in the United States.
How Is Radon Detected?
Detecting if your home has radon is more difficult than other harmful gases like carbon monoxide, as there is no electronic system that will sound if it detects radon in the air. The only solution is a radon detection kit that sits in your home for about a week, and then is analyzed by a lab to check the levels of radon.
While the US Surgeon General does not recommend a regular interval of radon testing, they do recommend that living spaces below the third floor of a home are tested.
How Did Radon Get Into My Home?
Homes that have a crawl space underneath their home with a dirt floor, instead of concrete, are more susceptible of having radon seep into the home. Homes with a concrete foundation are not exempt from radon seepage, as it is still a possibility. All radon needs is a crack in the foundation for it to seep into the home.
What Are Radon Poisoning Symptoms?
Some of the symptoms of radon poisoning can include respiratory infections, respiratory difficulties, difficulties breathing, hoarseness, and persistent coughing. Not all symptoms show up immediately, which is why it is important to have your home tested.
These symptoms have a higher chance of showing up in smokers that live in your home, who are already more at risk for lung cancer. Non smokers are not in the clear, they just have a lower risk of radon induced lung cancer.
How Do I Get Rid Of Radon In My Home?
There are professionals that can install a radon reduction system in your home. They will seal foundation cracks, and install an exhaust fan to vent radon gases away from the foundation of your home.
By understanding what radon is and how to deal with it, you will be able to protect those living in your home. Visit Certified Radon for more information.
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