Dangerous, Deadly Radon ~ What Every Homeowner Needs To Know
When you think of deadly gases that can be present in homes at toxic levels, you likely think of natural gas and carbon monoxide. Both of these gases can wreak havoc and cause death in a short amount of time. Radon is an odorless, colorless gas that can also have deadly consequences if it is not detected and mitigated in a timely manner. The most extreme consequence is that it can cause lung cancer. The following are things that every existing or future homeowner should know about radon.
How Radon Enters Homes
Radon is found in rocks and soil. This gas can enter homes through cracks, drains, construction joints, sump pumps, loose pipes, and crawlspaces. Every household will have some levels of radon, but elevated levels are of major concern.
Radon Testing
You should have your home routinely tested for radon. This is because you may have low levels for a few years, but they could elevate. The test is simple. It involves leaving testing devices in homes for a set number of days. The tests are then retrieved and tested in a lab or by a radon mitigation professional. The test results can be made available as soon as the same day depending on the method of testing. Do not make the mistake of thinking that your home is not at risk for high radon levels simply because you have neighbors who have low levels. Some people make this erroneous assumption on the basis that their homes are located in close proximity to their neighbors.
Radon Mitigation System or Plan
If elevated levels are detected, you will need to consider a radon mitigation plan for the safety of your family. This usually involves installing a radon mitigation system. The system is designed to filtrate radon out of properties. The layout of your home will determine the best type of radon mitigation system for your property. You cannot expect radon to exit your home by using do-it-yourself methods such as leaving windows up or using exhaust fans.
Unfortunately, some homeowners are not familiar with radon, and they do not know to have their homes tested. Some individuals who have heard of radon may mistakenly think that testing for the gas is part of home inspections, but in many cases, it is not. Therefore, if you buy a home and discover later that it has high levels of radon, the cost of the radon mitigation system will likely be yours to bear. Contact a company like Great Plains Radon to learn more.
