Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It is invisible, odorless and tasteless. When radon is released from the ground into the outdoor air, it is diluted and is not a concern. However, in enclosed spaces, like homes, it can accumulate to high levels and become a risk to the health of you and your family.
How radon gets into your home the air pressure inside your home is usually lower than in the soil surrounding the foundation. This difference in pressure draws air and other gases, including radon, from the soil into your home.
Radon can enter a home any place it finds an opening where the house contacts the ground: cracks in foundation floor and walls, construction joints, gaps around service pipes, support posts, window casements, floor drains, sumps or cavities inside walls.
Should you test for radon?
Testing is the only way to know your home’s radon levels. There are no immediate symptoms that will alert you to the presence of radon. The US EPA, Surgeon General, American Lung Association, American Medical Association, and National Safety Council recommend testing your home for radon because testing is the only way to know your home’s radon levels.
Radon is a national environmental health problem. Elevated radon levels have been
discovered in every state. The US EPA estimates that as many as 8 million homes
throughout the country have elevated levels of radon.
Current state surveys show that 1 home in 5 has elevated radon levels.
Can you fix the problem?
It’s best to rely on a professional – especially when dealing with a carcinogen. In fact, many U.S. states require radon professionals to be certified and licensed in their field.
If you have an existing home with elevated levels of radon, you can fix the problem by having a radon mitigation system installed. A radon mitigation system consists of a vent pipe, fan and the proper sealing of cracks. This system collects radon gas from underneath the foundation and vents it to the outside of your home. If you need to have a radon mitigation system installed, it is best to contact a certified radon mitigation professional to do the installation.
If you are building a new home, ask your contractor to install radon-resistant features. These features include gravel and plastic sheeting below the foundation, along with proper sealing of cracks and the installation of a vent pipe. Once the radon-resistant features have been installed and the home is completely built, make sure to perform a radon test, as the levels could still be elevated. If the radon levels are still elevated, a radon fan should be added to the system to lower the radon level.
Detailed information about radon reduction in your home or building can be found in EPA's Consumer's Guide to Radon Reduction.
The American Lung Association is working with national partners and government agencies to build in ways to reduce radon in all homes. The National Radon Action Plan outlines strategies to protect millions more people from dangerous radon exposure.
Check our blog section for articles and common questions and concerns about radon in Lexington and Central Kentucky.
Give us a call for more information or if you have any question in regard to radon gas in Kentucky, radon testing or radon mitigation.
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