Radon is an odorless, tasteless, radioactive gas that is produced as part of the natural breakdown of the uranium that’s present in igneous rock. Radon exposure is a leading cause of lung cancer deaths in the United States. Experts believe that some twenty-thousand people die as a result of radon every year. Fortunately, you can have your home tested for radon. If it’s present, residential radon mitigation experts can help make your home safe again.
One in every five homes in the United States has elevated radon levels. While the EPA has mapped out elevated radon risk areas, radon is so prevalent in the environment that any home could potentially be affected. Radon gas is often found in basements and other low-lying rooms in the home. Newer, more efficient homes pose an especial risk because they don’t have as much naturally-occurring air circulation. Radon exposure takes years to result in physical symptoms, so the best way to know if your home has elevated levels of radon is to have it tested. DIY tests are available for purchase at many hardware stores, but residential radon mitigation specialists can conduct longer-term tests that measure radon levels in your home over several months and provide a more accurate picture of your actual radon risk. Experts recommend that your home be tested for radon every few years, as well as when you’ve done major renovation work on the home. Children seem to be especially vulnerable to radon exposure, so consider running a check-up test when a new child comes into the family. If you discover that your home has elevated radon levels, all is not lost. Residential radon mitigation companies can install ventilation systems in affected rooms that allow radon build-up to dissipate. While radon testing and mitigation require some effort and cost, the peace of mind that comes from owning a radon-resistant home is worth it.
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