What should homeowners in Colorado know about radon gas?
The Dangers of Radon Exposure
Radon is a big problem when it comes to lung cancer. It's the top cause for non-smokers in the U.S. and second for smokers. It may cause up to 14% of lung cancers worldwide, especially among smokers. Experts recommend testing for radon and taking action if levels are high. It's important to know the facts about radon and how to detect and mitigate this potential risk in your home.
Safe Radon Levels and Risks
The E.P.A. says radon levels over four picocuries per liter (pCi/L) in your home are a health risk. For context, four pCi/L is ten times higher than the average outdoor levels. Even lower levels can still be dangerous, so keeping them as low as possible is a good idea.
What Is Radon?
Like carbon monoxide, radon is invisible and odorless. It comes from uranium breaking down in rocks and soil. When it seeps into buildings, it can get trapped inside. The amount is measured in the U.S. as picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Testing is the only way to know if you have it in your home.
Testing for Radon
Do you know if your home, school, or workplace has dangerous radon levels? Testing is the first step. You can do it yourself with a kit or hire a professional. Experts recommend testing your home every two years, especially before buying a house, after significant renovations, or after installing a mitigation system.
What If Radon Levels Are Too High?
If radon levels are high, you need radon mitigation to reduce it. This involves fixing your home to decrease the radon. How it's done will depend on your house's structure. Talk to a professional to see what works best for your home.
Does Sealing Cracks Solve Radon Problems?
Sealing cracks in your home's foundation can help, but it won't entirely solve the radon problem alone. Radon can sneak in through many ways, and new cracks may appear as the foundation ages. Sealing is part of the solution, but you need a radon mitigation system for the best results.
Cost of Radon Mitigation
The cost depends on factors like your home's size and structure. It's similar to other home repairs. After installing a system, your utility bill may increase slightly, but most people notice little difference.
Finding the Right Radon Professional
Most states, including Colorado, require radon contractors to be certified or licensed. Look for contractors who meet E.P.A. standards, do pre- and post-mitigation testing, and carry insurance.
Take Action by Calling RDS Environmental for Radon Mitigation Services in Denver
Radon exposure builds up over time, so the sooner you test, the better. A sound mitigation system can make your home safer if tests show high levels.
You can protect yourself and your family from potential health risks by testing and reducing radon levels in your home. Take action now to keep your home safe before symptoms appear.
Contact RDS Environmental to schedule a free consultation.
