Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers and the second-leading cause of cigarette overall. As a naturally occurring radioactive gas, eliminating Radon is impossible but you can reduce Radon in the home. It is formed when either uranium, thorium, or radium decomposes in rocks, soil, or groundwater. Usually, Radon gas is trapped beneath your homes, it escapes to your home through cracks and holes on your foundation and flooring. The amount of Radon has varied depending on the concentration of uranium, thorium, or radium.
Radon exposure comes with detrimental health effects that can prove severe, and even fatal especially to children and old-aged. The EPA estimates that approximately 21,000 Americans die each year from radon-induced lung cancer. The cost of radon testing and mitigation has grown over the years. For this reason, many individuals and families continually look for ways to naturally lower the radon levels in their homes. Improving house ventilation by opening windows is one way to lower radon levels at home.
Proper ventilation allows air to adequately flow which helps to dissipate Radon gas to the outside environment. Different areas of your home would have different radon gas concentrations, and it depends on the air circulation and proximity to the ground. Enclosed spaces like your basement have the highest radon gas concentration compared to other spaces at your home. To know the radon concentration at your home, you need to contact a professional radon inspector.
Promoting better air circulation at home is easy. Opening your windows at least three (3) hours a day will allow fresh air to come inside your house. For the basement, installing a ventilation system can draw out Radon gas effectively. Besides promoting airflow, make sure to fix cracks and holes on your flooring and foundation. These cracks and holes provide an escape route for radon gas to your living spaces. The pressure difference between the ground and spaces above it creates a suction effect that draws out radon gas.
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 scheduling radon testing in Annapolis, Columbia, Ellicott City, Crofton, and Gaithersburg with us. It is important to make sure your home is safe from radon. Get in touch with us by filling out our contact form to learn more about our services.
