Radon levels determine the amount of radon present in your home. The safest radon level is zero, but it is pretty challenging to keep it at zero level unless your home was built with radon reduction construction techniques since it is naturally occurring. Besides, radon levels may vary from time to time, so it is recommended to test your home for radon. And if the radon levels are high, you need to reduce them as soon as possible. In this article, learn some radon reduction strategies that can provide both short-term and long-term benefits.
Radon Testing
One of the first things you need to do before doing any radon reduction technique is radon testing. Doing so allows you to tell if your home has high radon levels. There are several ways to test your home for radon, including short-term and long-term testing. Suppose you are in a hurry; you can measure radon for two to three days. For a short-term test, it is recommended to keep your doors and windows closed as much as possible. This way, you can avoid the fans from bringing air from outside. You may use the following devices for short term radon testing:
- alpha-track detectors
- charcoal canisters
- charcoal liquid scintillation detectors
- continuous monitors
- electret ion chambers
Since radon levels might change from day to day or month to month, it would be best to opt for long-term radon testing. This is because, according to radon experts, you’ll get the most accurate results from this kind of test. Long-term radon testing measures radon levels for more than 90 days, including alpha-track and electret ion chamber detectors.
Radon Reduction Techniques
Once you have completed a radon test, it’s time to assess whether your home has high radon levels or not. And suppose the level is high, here are some radon reduction techniques that you can do.
1. Create a gas-permeable layer that is beneath the slab or flooring. Doing so allows the radioactive gas to move under your house. However, this technique only works if you have a basement or slab foundation.
2. Install a plastic sheeting that goes on top of the gas-permeable layer under the slab. With this technique, you can prevent radon from entering your home.
3. Install a soil suction radon reduction system. It is also called a vent pipe and fan system. With this radon reduction technique, you can keep the gas from accumulating inside your home.
4. Seal and caulk the foundation cracks and openings. Doing so helps reduce the amount of radon entering your home.
If you test your home for radon and the radon levels are high, it is recommended to try the above techniques and see if they will work for your home. If you find it challenging to fix the radon issues, you may hire a radon contractor. The EPA recommends that you have to hire a qualified radon mitigation contractor to improve your home because it may need a radon mitigation system installed. You may contact your state radon office for a list of licensed radon mitigation professionals in your area.
