What Is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas formed when uranium breaks down in the soil. The gas seeps up through the earth and enters your home via gaps and cracks in the foundation. Without proper ventilation, radon accumulates and you and your family are exposed to it as you go about your daily activities.
3 Reasons to Have Your Home Tested for Radon
According to both the U.S. Surgeon General and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you should have your house tested for radon every two years, regardless of where you live. Here are three reasons why.
1. Radon is Difficult to Detect
Radon gas is invisible, odorless, and tasteless, so it cannot be detected without a test. Hiring a professional who knows how to detect and measure radon in your home is your best option. Professional testing provides the most accurate results and, if radon is found, you will be able to discuss options to mitigate the gas in your home.
2. Radon is Dangerous to Your Health
According to the EPA, radon indoors is one of the most serious risks that homeowners face. This is why having your home tested for radon is so important. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking in the United States.
As you breathe in the gas, the radioactive particles become trapped in your lungs, affecting the lung tissue and potentially leading to cancer. Unfortunately, often the first sign of radon poisoning is a lung cancer diagnosis.
3. Test for Radon in the Home Before Selling the Property
When you decide to sell your home, showing the results of a radon test to potential buyers can help build trust and ease concerns. If radon is found, you will have time to mitigate the problem before putting the house on the market and can show that your home is safe.
If this deadly gas is found in your home, seek mitigation to reduce its levels. Initially, you can begin by ventilating your house, especially basements and lower levels. However, you will need a longer-term solution, which should include identifying and sealing leaks and installing ventilation fans. Radon mitigation specialists will assess your home and customize a system to mitigate the gas.
When you’re exposed to elevated radon levels, you and your family are at risk for developing lung cancer. If you’re selling your home or haven’t had your home tested for in the last two years, contact a certified radon tester. This is the first step to reduce the effects of this radioactive gas on your health.
Realistic Home Inspection Services provides home inspection services to the greater Milwaukee area. Contact us to request an appointment.