Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is odorless and colorless. It is found in varying levels in the air and can seep into buildings through cracks and other openings in the foundation. Radon exposure is linked to lung cancer, making it important to test your home for this harmful gas. Here are just a few reasons why you should test your home for radon:
1. Radon is a leading cause of lung cancer: According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths each year. Radon gas can be inhaled and cause damage to the lungs over time, which can lead to lung cancer. Testing your home for radon can help you identify if there are high levels of the gas in your living space and take steps to reduce exposure.
2. Radon levels can vary from one building to another: Radon levels can vary greatly from one building to another, even if they are located next to each other. Factors such as the type of soil, building materials, ventilation and weather can all affect the level of radon in a building. Testing your home for radon can help you determine if there are high levels of the gas in your specific building.
3. Radon exposure is preventable: The good news is that radon exposure is preventable. If high levels of radon are detected in your home, there are steps you can take to reduce exposure. The EPA recommends hiring a qualified professional to install a radon mitigation system, which can reduce radon levels in your home by up to 99%. This can help to protect you and your family from the harmful effects of radon exposure.
4. Testing is easy and affordable: Testing your home for radon is a simple and affordable process. There are a variety of “over the counter” radon testing kits available on the market, ranging from short-term tests that can be completed in a few days to long-term tests that measure levels over the course of several months. Advance Building Inspections offers radon testing at an additional charge. While we recommend getting your home or commercial property tested for radon prior to purchasing for your health and safety, you can easily schedule testing after purchase as well.
In conclusion, testing your home for radon is an important step in protecting yourself and your family from the harmful effects of this gas. Radon exposure is a leading cause of lung cancer, and levels can vary greatly from one building to another. Fortunately, exposure is preventable, and testing your home is an easy and affordable process. At Advance Building Inspections, we offer radon testing services to help you ensure that your home is safe and healthy. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Sources:
United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2022, March 3). Health Risk of Radon. https://www.epa.gov/radon/health-risk-radon
United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2022, March 3). How to Test Your Home. https://www.epa.gov/radon/how-test-your-home-radon
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