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Radon Risks Should Be On Your Radar
Homeownership is a dream for many, symbolizing stability, comfort, and a place to create cherished memories. While we invest time and resources in making our homes safe and secure, there's an often overlooked threat that lurks silently and invisibly - radon. Let's explore why homeowners should be aware of radon, understand its potential risks, and take proactive steps to ensure the health and safety of their families.
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring, colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that results from the decay of uranium in soil and rocks. It can seep into homes primarily through cracks in foundation and the pores of the concrete slab floor. Due to its elusive nature, radon often goes unnoticed continuing to put those living in its midst in danger.
The Risks of Radon
Exposure to elevated levels of radon is a serious health concern. Long-term exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, making it the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. Radon-induced lung cancer claims thousands of lives each year. Pairing this with the fact that Nebraska has the third highest state average radon levels makes it crucial for homeowners to be proactive in mitigating radon risks. So, what is considered an elevated amount? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) urges homeowners to consider fixing or mitigate your home when levels are over 2pCi/L. Once levels reach 4 pCi/L it is strongly recommended by the EPA to fix the home. The 4 pCi/L measurement is the standard which a mitigated home must stay below.
Why Homeowners Should Be Aware?
Health Implications:
Radon is a known carcinogen, and its radioactive particles can damage lung tissue over time, leading to cancer. By being aware of radon levels in your home, you can take steps to reduce exposure and protect your family's health.
Silent Threat:
Unlike other household dangers that may manifest with visible signs, radon is silent and odorless. Regular testing is the only way to identify its presence, allowing homeowners to address the issue before it becomes a serious health risk.
Easy Detection:
Testing for radon is a simple process. Home radon test kits are widely available and can provide reliable results. Professional radon testing services are also available for a more comprehensive assessment of your home's radon levels.
Mitigation Options:
If elevated radon levels are detected, homeowners can take action to mitigate the risk. Radon mitigation systems, such as sub-slab depressurization, will effectively reduce radon levels, creating a healthier living environment.
Property Value:
Radon awareness not only impacts the health of your family but also the value of your property. A radon-free home is an attractive feature for potential buyers, making it a wise investment in both health and property value.
Why is Regular Testing Important?
Since radon gas is a natural byproduct to the decay of uranium in the soil, the amounts produced and the concentration of the gas found in your home can change over time. Just because a home's measured radon levels from a single radon test show levels below safe levels set by the EPA, this doesn't guarantee those levels won't rise to a point that your home's levels are hazardous. In fact a rise in levels could happen in a span as short as a season change to a few years. In, fact winter often causes a rise in radon levels as the ground outside freezes increasing the “stack effect” in a house which increases the amount of gases pulled from under the house.
How Frequently Should Radon Be Tested?
Since radon levels can change over time, as discussed above, you may be asking, “how often should I have my home tested for radon”? It's suggested homes are tested every other year. By testing every two years you'll have an accurate assessment of the current risk and can take timely action should radon concentration levels change in your home.
As homeowners, we want our home to be a place that provides a safe and healthy environment for our families. Radon, though invisible, is a potential threat that should not be underestimated. By staying informed, testing for radon regularly, and taking necessary mitigation measures, we can ensure that our homes are not just comfortable, but also safe havens for those we hold dear. Stay proactive, stay informed, and let Bryant help you make sure your home is truly safe from radon's invisible threat. Complete our contact form to request a professional radon test or quote for radon mitigation.