The Dangers of Radon in the Home
You may know that radon gas is dangerous, but never thought it could affect your home. Radon in the home is a problem for a couple of reasons. First, it is not detectable without a special radon test. Second, it can cause lung cancer. Read on to learn what you can do to protect your family from radon.
Where Does Radon Come From?
Radon is a gas that naturally forms underground when other radioactive elements decay. It drifts upwards into the atmosphere and can easily enter houses through gaps and cracks. Once the gas is inside a building, it builds up. Exposure to elevated levels of radon has been linked to cases of lung cancer.
Testing for Radon in the Home
Homeowners need a radon test to learn about the levels of radon in a house. While inexpensive DIY radon testing kits are available, they often return inaccurate results. Experts recommend using a licensed radon measurement technician who uses superior equipment and has been trained on how to administer the test. For a matter as serious as your family’s health, you don’t want any errors.
What Happens if Radon Levels in the Home are High?
Fortunately, there are ways to lower high radon levels. The EPA says that any level at 4 pCi/L or higher needs mitigation. Radon mitigation companies employ a variety of techniques to suction radon from underneath the house and ventilate it out of the living spaces.
Every home should be tested for radon. The radon levels of one home and the home next door can be drastically different from one another. There is no way to tell if a home is safe from high radon levels without ordering a professional radon test.
Premier Home & Environmental Inspection Services conduct professional radon tests by licensed radon measurement technicians. Contact us to schedule a radon test in Northern New Jersey.
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