Home Safety: Why You Should Test Your Home For Radon 

Home Safety Why You Should Test Your Home For Radon

Intro

Any homeowner will tell you that there are few things more important than the security and safety of their home and family. One potential threat that many homeowners are unaware of is radon gas. Radon is a radioactive gas that can seep into your home through cracks in the foundation or other openings, and it’s estimated that 1 in 15 homes nationwide have high levels of radon. Fortunately, testing for radon is easy and inexpensive, so there’s no reason not to do it.

What is radon, and why should you test for it in your home

In the United States, it is estimated that 21,000 lung cancer deaths yearly are from radon exposure. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas formed during the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It can enter homes through cracks and openings in the foundation, and sometimes levels are high enough to require corrective action. Testing your home for radon is easy and can be done with a do-it-yourself kit. Here are five reasons why you should test your home for radon:

1) Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, so it’s important to know if you’re at risk.

2) The test is easy and inexpensive to do.

3) You may be able to fix the problem yourself if levels are high.

4) Radon exposure can be reduced by up to 90% with proper mitigation.

5) Reducing your risk of lung cancer is worth taking a few minutes to test for radon!

The health risks of radon exposure

While it’s often invisible and odorless, radon gas can pose serious health risks if it’s present in your home. Radon is a radioactive gas formed when uranium breaks down in the soil, water, and rock. It can enter homes from any kind of cracks in the foundation or other openings and can build up to dangerous levels if it’s not properly ventilated. Long-term exposure to radon gas has been linked to lung cancer, which is estimated to cause hundreds of deaths yearly. Suppose you’re concerned about the possibility of radon exposure. In that case, test kits can help you determine whether you need to take action to improve the ventilation in your home. In most cases, corrective measures can be taken to remove radon gas and protect your family from its potentially harmful effects.

How to test for radon in your home

Radon is a naturally occurring gas found in all homes, regardless of age or location. While it is not typically harmful in small doses, long-term exposure to high radon levels can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer. Fortunately, testing for radon is relatively simple and can be done with a do-it-yourself kit. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Purchase a radon test kit from your local hardware store or online retailer.

2. Follow the instructions provided with your kit to place the test device in your home.

3. After the recommended period has elapsed, seal the device and send it back to the laboratory for analysis.

4. Once you receive your results, take action to address any areas of concern. For example, if your home has high radon levels, you may need to install a radon mitigation system.

By following these steps, you can easily test for radon in your home and take steps to protect you and your family members from this invisible threat.

How to fix a high radon level if you find one

If you find that your home has a high radon level, there’s no need to panic. While radon is a radioactive gas that can harm your health, it’s also relatively easy to fix. The first step is to identify the source of the radon. This gas typically enters homes through cracks in the foundation or floor, so you’ll need to carefully inspect these areas of your home. Once you’ve located the source, you can use a fan to ventilate the site and help dispel the radon gas. You may also want to consider installing a radon mitigation system, which can further reduce the gas level in your home. You can quickly bring your radon levels down to a safe level with a little effort.

If this does not work, a lot of professionals and home improvement companies do radon testing and mitigation. You can contact such professionals to ensure the safety of your home and your loved ones.

The cost of testing and fixing a high radon level

But while testing for radon is important, fixing a high level can be costly. The amount of money you’ll need to spend will depend on the size of your home and the extent of the problem. But in general, you can expect to pay between $800 and $2,000 to install a radon mitigation system. And while that may seem like a lot of money, it’s nothing compared to the cost of lung cancer treatment. So if you’re concerned about radon, don’t let the cost of mitigation deter you from taking action. It could end up saving your life.

Final Takeaways

Radon is a serious issue, and it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect your family. By testing your home for radon, you can ensure that you and your loved ones are safe from this harmful gas. If you find that your home has high radon levels, don’t panic! You can take steps to fix the problem and keep your family safe. Thanks for reading, and be sure to test your home for radon.


Related Blogs

Home Safety Why You Should Test Your Home For Radon
Home Improvement

Reasons Why You Should Not Install Granite Countertops By Yourself

August 11, 2022
Home Safety Why You Should Test Your Home For Radon
Home Improvement

Home Remodeling: Is Remodeling Your Basement A Worthy Investment?

August 11, 2022
Home Safety Why You Should Test Your Home For Radon
Home Improvement

Learn The 9 Benefits Of Basement Waterproofing

August 11, 2022