Do you have questions about radon? Over our many years in business, we have received a ton of great questions regarding radon, testing, mitigation, and more. It is our belief that answering these questions helps educate and allows you to make better-informed decisions. We want to keep you safe. Check out our list of the most common questions below. If that doesn’t help, please contact us with the form at the bottom and we will be happy to assist you.
These radon decay products, called “daughters,” attach themselves to dust particles floating in the air. When inhaled they can become lodged in the lung tissue. As these radon daughters decay, emitting the tiny bursts of energy, they can damage that lung cell tissue. Prolonged exposure can cause lung cancer. Scientific research indicates that at least a 10 to 20 year incubation period is required before a lung cancer develops.
Scientists estimate that indoor radon is the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and the number two cause of lung cancer (after smoking) in the United States. Up to 21,000 Americans may die each year as a result of radon exposure. The EPA considers radon to be the most significant environmental health risk we face today.
Radon comes primarily from the soil under a building. Radon can be found almost everywhere because radium (the “parent” of radon gas) is present in most soils. Average concentrations of radon are usually low, and small amounts of radon are measurable in the air. However, when homes, schools and buildings are erected over a source of radon, the gas can become trapped and elevated inside the building. The highest levels are usually detected in the basement, however heating and air conditioning systems and whole house vacuum systems can quickly spread radon to other parts of a building.
Radon usually enters buildings mixed with other gasses from the soil. Usual entry points are open sumps, cracks in floors and cinder block walls, openings in floors (from electrical, plumbing and other penetrations), floor drains, etc. Radon is literally pulled, or sucked into the building due to what is called the “stack effect.” Warm, heated air inside the building will rise and exit at higher elevations. This loss of air requires make up air which often comes from the soil through the above mentioned areas. Other exhausting appliances (such as fireplaces, dryers, bathroom fans, etc.) can also increase the rate of radon entry.
When you’re building a new home there are many code requirements the contractors must follow to ensure the structure will be safe. Surprisingly, there are NO code requirements when it comes to radon intrusion prevention. Our protection program fills the gaps by working with the contractors to ensure your new build will be safe for you and your family.
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