5 Critical Facts to Know about Radon and Radon Detection
Have you ever heard of radon mitigation?
Well, don’t worry if you haven’t because many people are probably not even familiar with it. But, what most of you didn’t know is that radon has a big role in your life, no matter where you live.
Here are some important facts about radon and radon detection that you should know if you are a homeowner, including its effects on your health and your home.
1st Fact: Radon is a Type of Gas That Seeps into Houses
Radon gas is formed once natural radioactive uranium decays little by little in the ground beneath your house and seeps up to the surface. Due to the way homes are heated and ventilated, some of this gas can find itself inside through the floor. It is how exposure to radon occurs.
2nd Fact: You Can Reduce High Levels of Radon in Your Home
Although it can cause some problems to have high radon levels in your home, the good news is that you can lower these through some simple building works. There are several options you can choose from that will depend on the radon level and the style of your house.
Radon levels can range from several hundred pounds to just a few pounds. After radon detection, recommended solutions can include the addition or replacement of ventilation bricks in the outside walls or the installation of a small pump in your loft that will blow air gently inside. Many of these remedies can work for several years that only require occasional checking.
3rd Fact: You Need to Take Action If Radon Detection Reveals High Radon Levels in Your Home
Breathing in high radon levels for a long time can cause damages to your lung’s sensitive cells that can increase your risk of developing lung cancer. It has been revealed that radon is the cause of many lung cancer deaths in several countries every year.
It is even more likely for you to suffer from lung cancer if you combine high radon exposure and smoking. This is why if your home has high radon levels and you also smoke at the same time, you need to take action right away.
4th Fact: Some Areas Can Make Homes More Prone to High Radon Levels
All buildings have some traces of radon but these levels are often low. However, there are certain areas where houses may have higher radon levels and the specific type of ground has something to do with it. For example, regions rich in granite may have homes with higher levels of radon.
5th Fact: Radon Detection and Testing is Easy
If you happen to live in a place that is likely to have higher radon levels, getting radon detection and property testing might be necessary. The process of testing and detection is easy. All you have to do is place a biscuit-sized plastic detector in the living room and another one in the bedroom. Leave the detectors for 3 months. The radon level will be calculated after mailing it to the lab so you can take the necessary steps accordingly.