Any home can have a radon problem—new or old, well-sealed or drafty, with or without a basement. Prolonged exposure to unsafe levels of radon can increase the risk of lung cancer; in fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. after smoking. Considering this, there is real risk in not knowing if a home has a high level of radon.
What is radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring, odorless, colorless, radioactive gas formed by the ongoing decay of uranium in soil, rocks, sediments, and even well or groundwater. While radon that escapes into the atmosphere is not harmful, dangerously high concentrations can build up indoors.
How radon enters the home
Radon can migrate into the home in several ways. Openings or cracks in basement walls or floors are common avenues. Sumps, basement drains, water supply piping and spaces between gas or water fittings and the walls can also allow radon into the structure. Modern building approaches that emphasize a highly sealed structural envelope mean that elevated levels of radon can even be found in new homes.
How can homebuyers find out about radon in a home?
Testing is the only way to determine radon levels. Radon testing can be requested as a stand-alone service or as an added service to a standard home inspection. The inspector will set up monitoring equipment and report on the results.
Reducing the levels of radon in the home
If an elevated level of radon is detected, there are several different radon reduction methods to consider. One is a radon ventilation system that vents the gas above the roof. Sealing cracks in the foundation can increase the effectiveness of ventilation systems, but has not been shown to adequately reduce radon levels on its own. Professional mitigation services can provide recommendations for a home’s specific conditions.
Professional radon testing for your clients’ homes can help ensure peace of mind for themselves and their families.
This article was provided by Pillar To Post Home Inspectors. For more information, go to pillartopost.com.
