Radon gas is a an odorless, colorless and tasteless gas that enters your home through the foundation. It is caused when uranium decays in soil and rock... which surrounds the foundation of your home. Every home can have radon gas, whether it is new or old. Read on to learn what to do if you suspect high radon levels in your home.
Radon gas is a radioactive gas that actually accounts for up to 70% of the radiation that we are exposed to here in Utah. The CDC has stated that there are not specific signes attributed to "radon poisoning" however any exposure to radon gas can lead to lung cancer. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. If you experience anything like a persistent cough, wheezing or heavy breathing, you should contact your doctor.
However, if your concern isn't quite as immediate, follow along with us and we will go through what radon is and when a radon mitigation system may be recommended.
As radium and uranium decay in soil, radon gas is formed. When it is outside, it disperses through the air with no problems. However, it can enter your home through cracks and pores in the foundation, construction joints, openings around pipes, etc. It is then trapped in your home and taken into the lungs as you breath. This is when it becomes a health risk for you and your family.
Because radon gas has no taste, color or smell, specialized testing must be preformed. This is the only way to determine if your home has high radon levels. There are some tests that you can do yourself and send into a lab. However, we offer free residential testing throughout Utah and will provide certified results. Your results will come in the form of a picoCuries per liter number or pCi/L. This is what determines if your radon levels are high enough to be a risk or if your home is okay. Organizations like the EPA and WHO have set action levels that can guide you in making a decision about your radon levels.
Radon mitigation will be recommended if your home has high radon levels. These consist of a system of pipes and a fan that pull radon gas from below the house and vent it outside above the house. These can be installed quickly, usually in less than a day, and cost effectively. Contact us to receive a free bid for radon mitigation if your home has high radon levels.
Radon is often dismissed as a scare tactic, but with organizations like the CDC, EPA, and WHO all warning about the risk of contracting lung cancer after exposure to radon gas, there is no reason to delay. What to do if you suspect high radon levels. Well, the first step is getting a radon test. Simply fill out the form on this page or call us at 801-871-0715 to request your FREE residential testing kit.
Why Test for Radon - Radon is a colorless, tasteless, odorless gas that is released when naturally occurring uranium in soil decays. Not only is it radioactive, but 1 in 3 homes in Utah have high levels indoors. Radon accounts for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year and is the leading cause of lung […]
Home has a Radon Problem? - If you have heard of radon gas and the potential health risks that exposure may present, you may be wondering how to know if your home has high radon levels. Rest assured, we’re here to break down what radon is, what the risks of radon exposure are, and how […]
Radon is a radioactive gas that enters your home through cracks and pores in the foundation as uranium decays underground. Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas, which means it requires specialized testing to protect your family. Side Effects of Radon Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United […]
