Radon is carcinogenic, especially in high concentrations. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It is a byproduct of the decay of organic materials found in the soil such as uranium and thorium. Special tools are needed to measure its level. Its level of concentration is measured in the air using the unit “picocuries of radon per liter of air,” or “pCi/L.” It is present in our homes mostly in spaces near the ground with poor ventilation.
Hiring a professional radon inspector is important to ensure that radon mitigation activities are carried out properly. Different types of homes would require different radon reduction methodologies. But there are methodologies considered applicable to all types of houses.
Sealing
Radon escapes through cracks and other openings in the foundation or floor of a house. Sealing a crack is a basic approach to radon reduction. When you seal a crack, you limit the flow of radon gas into living spaces that results in the lowering of radon level. It is a cost-efficient solution, but EPA does not recommend the use of sealing alone since the consistency of radon reduction is questionable.
House/Room pressurization
This is the use of a fan to blow air into an enclosed or poorly ventilated space from the outside. The idea is to generate enough air pressure to push back radon gas escaping from the ground. This approach can cause moisture intrusion and energy penalties.
A heat recovery ventilator (HRV)
This method uses an air-to-air heat exchanger. The equipment is installed to increase ventilation to drive out radon at your home. It is somewhat like pressurization, but the difference is that it warms the air from the outside before going inside. This method lowers the possibility of moisture intrusion and energy penalties common to pressurization. The HRV increases the air pressure which prevents radon gas from escaping the ground. This method must be used in conjunction with other methodologies like suctioning.
Regular radon testing and radon mitigation by professional radon inspectors are needed especially in areas with a high concentration of uranium, thorium, and radium. At Atlantic Radon, we provide quality radon testing and radon mitigation services. Keep your family safe from Radon. You can schedule a radon testing in Annapolis, Columbia, Ellicott City, Crofton, and Gaithersburg with us. It is important to make sure your home is safe from radon.
