Why do homes in Georgia have high levels of radon gas?
As a homeowner, you strive to make your home a safe place for your family. However, various factors can jeopardize your family’s health and safety without proper vigilance. One such threat is radon concentration, which can vary based on several environmental and structural characteristics. Here’s what you need to know about radon and how to limit your exposure.
What is Radon?
Understanding radon is crucial to mitigating its risks. According to the United States E.P.A., radon is a radioactive gas. It is color and odorless and can only be detected through a radon test. In the open air, radon disperses quickly and poses minimal risk. However, when it infiltrates homes through foundation cracks, it becomes hazardous. Prolonged radon exposure can lead to severe health issues, particularly lung damage and cancer.
Do All Homes Have a Radon Concentration?
While radon isn’t problematic outdoors, it becomes dangerous when trapped inside buildings like homes, schools, or hospitals. Estimates suggest that 1 out of every 15 homes has elevated radon levels, and some areas have even higher risks.
What Determines a Home’s Radon Concentration?
Every home may have some radon, particularly those near uranium-rich soil. Radon originates from the breakdown of uranium in the soil and enters homes through foundation cracks. Another potential source is water. Well water, for instance, can contain radon, making it a concern during showers or when ingested.
Lastly, radon may enter through building materials like brick or granite, less common than soil or water sources.
Concerned About Your Home’s Radon Levels? Take Action Now
Regular testing is essential to detect radon accumulation and take necessary mitigation steps.
Hiring an experienced radon contractor for testing is the first step to ensuring a safe home. These professionals will evaluate your home’s radon levels and suggest mitigation measures. If you need to get your home tested or are moving into a new residence, schedule an inspection with a professional.
Reduce Your Risk of Radon
If you’re worried about high radon levels, time is critical. Make an appointment with a certified radon company to test your home’s concentrations. In the meantime, seal cracks around foundations, doors, and windows with caulk or foam insulation to temporarily reduce radon entry.
How Often Should You Test Your Home for Radon?
Don’t neglect or postpone radon testing—it’s crucial for all homeowners. Even if you have a radon mitigation system, testing every two years is advised. Homes built after 1978 should be tested more frequently due to construction techniques that might allow higher radon entry. Consistent testing helps ensure your family’s health and safety.
Protect Yourself and Your Family From Radon Concentration
Radon can build up indoors, posing significant health risks. Testing your home to maintain radon levels below four pCi/L prevents serious health issues. Radon testing companies can determine your home’s radon levels and recommend mitigation systems if necessary.
Don’t wait—contact Elite Radon Team today to make your home safer and healthier. We’re ready to test your home and install a custom radon mitigation system to reduce radon gas levels now.