What is Radon and why should I care about it?

Radon is a radioactive isotope that occurs naturally in soil, basements, crawl spaces, fissures, rocks, and water. As a result, radon can enter the air and be absorbed by people who live in these locations. It is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and non-flammable gas classified as a "probable human carcinogen."

If you live in a region with high radon levels, you may be asking what you can do to protect yourself. In the Carolinas, most counties are prone to elevated radon levels. Numerous counties have more than 1/3 of the homes with a radon level above acceptable levels set by the EPA. The map from the Radon Potential Zones shows a breakdown by county for the state of North Carolina.

Why Should I Care About Radon?

Radon is also a naturally occurring byproduct of uranium decay. The radon gas is formed when uranium decays and breaks down into other elements. It's common in soil and rocks and even found in groundwater.

When radon gas is found in groundwater, it can seep into buildings. It can happen if there are cracks or holes in a building. It can also happen if the soil around a building is contaminated.

Radium can also be found in the air. Radon gas seeps into your house through cracks and openings.

How does radon get into your home?

Cracks in the home's foundation and those in the ground or soil are all potential entry points for radon. It can also get in through your home's ventilation system, plumbing, or open windows.

How Radon Is Injurious To Health?

Radon is a radioactive gas, which means it can cause cancer. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking, accounting for around 14% of lung cancer deaths in the United States per year.

It also can cause other health problems. Radon can also cause bone cancer. It is because bones contain calcium and other minerals that are affected by radiation. It has been associated with an increased chance of developing leukemia and other types of cancer.

If you have a known radon problem or are concerned you may have elevated radon, LunsPro can help by conducting a radon test for the home. The testing will reveal the levels in your home for you to determine if any additional actions should be taken. Tests can be conducted at any time, not just for new home purchases.

What are the symptoms of radon exposure?

The symptoms of radon exposure can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headaches, and fatigue. You might also be experiencing chest tightness, a hacking cough, and a sore throat.

Reduce The Risk Of Radon Exposure:

There are some ways to reduce the risk of radon exposure.

● One way is to seal cracks in your home's foundation and soil.

● It will help to keep radon gas out of your home.

● Another way is to test your home's radon levels.

● If the levels are high, you can install radon-proofing materials in your home.

● You can also ventilate your home. It will help to remove radon from the air.

Bottom Line:

The United States Environmental Protection Agency believes that considerable quantities of radon gas exist in the basements of more than four million houses in the United States. Many studies show that radon can cause health problems even when the concentration is low.

As the second leading cause of lung cancer, it is important to have your home tested to determine if you need to have a radon mitigation system installed in your home.

Whether you are buying a new home, selling your home, or staying in your home, testing for radon is highly recommended. The process is easy and will not interfere in your life at home over the 2 days of testing. Give yourself peace of mind by knowing you are protected from radon exposure.

LunsPro is here to help 7 days a week across the Carolina areas and beyond. Contact us today with any questions at 704-981-2922. You can also schedule online as part of a full home inspection or as an individual test.