If you are a new resident in the United States, probably, you haven’t heard about radon issues in homes. Although radon can be found anywhere, this radioactive gas is rampant in the US. According to the World Health Organization, radon is the second-leading cause of cancer, next to smoking. As such, you need to learn the radon reduction technique that you can install in your home to avoid radon exposure. If you lack knowledge about the cancer-causing gas, listed below are the frequently asked questions about radon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Radon, Radon Testing, and More!
The following are the basic things you need to learn about radon, radon testing, and radon mitigation:
What is radon?
Radon is a kind of radioactive gas. It forms naturally when uranium, thorium, or radium break down in rocks, soil, and groundwater. You can be exposed to radon primarily from breathing it in the air. Radon enters your home through the cracks and gaps; that’s why it is crucial to make your home radon-free to avoid being exposed to this cancer-causing gas.
Where does it come from?
Radon-222 is considered the decay product of radium-226. Together with its parent, radium-226, they are both part of the long decay chain for uranium-238. Uranium can be seen everywhere, so expect radium-226 and radon-222 to be present in almost all rock, soil, and water. Although the amount of radon varies from house to house, it is essential to ensure that your home is radon-free.
Since radon fluctuates, you’ll never know when radon is high or low. This gas can range from a few hundred to several thousand pCi/L (picocuries per liter) in air. Several factors can cause radon fluctuation, including weather, soil porosity, soil moisture, and the suction within the house.
How does radon get into your home?
Usually, radon moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home. As mentioned, it enters your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. When your home traps radon inside, this gas can build up over the years. One of the frequently asked questions about radon is if any home can have a radon problem. The answer is yes, including new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements.
Should you test your home for radon?
Some homeowners overlook the importance of radon testing. It is essential to understand that radon testing is a must because it helps you identify whether radon is present or not in your home. There are two types of radon testing; short-term and long-term.
Short-term tests are done first to check the presence of the cancer-causing gas. But it should not stop there. Long-term radon testing should be considered to determine the radon levels in your home. Once you find out that radon is consistently high, radon mitigation is a must.
How much can radon mitigation cost?
One of the most frequently asked questions about radon is how much does the mitigation cost. The cost of installing a radon mitigation system varies depending on several factors. Some people find it expensive while others believe radon mitigation has a reasonable price considering the installation and contractors’ fee. If you want a cheaper option, you may opt for simple techniques or DIY radon mitigation. But if you’re going to ensure that radon mitigation is installed correctly, hiring licensed contractors is highly recommended.
Radon is a dangerous gas; unfortunately, not many people are aware of it. If you know someone clueless about the adverse effects of radon, it’s time to teach your loved ones about what radon is and what you can do to avoid it. Take time to read the frequently asked questions about radon to learn more about this radioactive gas.
