The breakdown of uranium in the soil produces radon, a radioactive byproduct. It’s a radioactive gas that’s invisible and odorless. It can come from the ground or building materials like concrete and can also be found in some well water. The level of radon in your home might be high enough to cause health problems if you are exposed to it for a long time. Radon decay products such as alpha particles can cause cancer in the lungs if present in large amounts in your house.
Here are four ways to reduce radon levels in your home:
Test Your Home for Radon Levels
Radon is an odorless, colorless, and highly radioactive gas. It’s the second leading cause of lung cancer in the US. Homes with radon levels above four picocuries per liter of air are considered unsafe. If you suspect your home has high radon levels, consider testing for it. A do-it-yourself kit can be found at most hardware stores and will only cost a few dollars. If you find that your home has high levels of radon, hire a qualified professional to come and perform the test for you.
Seal Cracks and Gaps Around Windows, Doors, and Floors
Radon can pose a significant risk to your health. It’s released from the earth into the air and can enter your home through cracks in your floors, walls, windows, or doors. Fortunately, there are ways you can seal out radon. One of the best ways to do this is by using caulk. Caulk will fill any gaps and prevent radon from seeping into your home and harming you or your family.
Install a Radon Mitigation System for Your Home
Radon mitigation systems are a viable solution for homeowners who want to decrease radon levels in their homes. They can be installed on an existing home and are typically less expensive than installing a new one. This system will work by drawing air from below the level of the house, filtering it through activated charcoal, and then releasing it outside of the house. If you have high levels of radon in your house, consider purchasing an EPA-certified Radon Mitigation System.
Remove Soil from Underneath Your Home
Radon can seep into your home through cracks in the foundations, holes in the ground, or gaps around pipes and sills. When it collects inside your home, it can pose a serious health risk. Having a soil-removal company come in and remove the ground from underneath your home is an efficient way to reduce radon levels and protect your family’s health.
Following these tips will help you reduce radon levels in your house so that you and your family are safe from its health hazards. If you want a reliable home inspection done for your house, Whole House Home Inspections is here to help! We have the expertise of home maintenance inspection services, from air quality testing to infrared inspection, termite inspection, and more.
Contact us now to get radon testing in Atlanta at affordable prices!