Knowing that radon gas is naturally occurring might lead you to think it shouldn’t cause you harm. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case. Prolonged exposure to this radioactive gas poses serious risks to your health. Fortunately, there are practical measures you can take to reduce radon levels in your home.
Test Regularly
Radon testing should be conducted every 2-5 years to keep track of radon levels in your home. There are a variety of options available that provide accurate results and inform your next steps. Even if your radon levels are below EPA and Surgeon General standards (4pCi/L), it’s a good idea to take precautions to prevent future build up.
Increase Ventilation
Once inside, radon can accumulate and reach harmful levels. To disrupt this process, it’s important to increase airflow and ventilation. This means using fans to circulate the air and making sure vents are open to maximize their air circulation. When weather permits, having windows open throughout your home will help those harmful gasses to escape.
For basements and crawl spaces, which often have higher radon levels, installing a ventilation system might be necessary.
Seal Cracks and Gaps
Radon gas is released into the air after it escapes from soil and rocks, and enters your home through cracks and gaps in the foundation. A good first step in radon control is to use sealants and caulks to fill any visible cracks or openings in your foundation or lower-level cement floors in your basement. Remember to make sure there aren’t any openings where walls meet the floor.
Install a Radon Reduction System
For homes with higher radon levels, a radon reduction mitigation system might be required. Radon mitigation systems work by diverting radon from the soil around your home and venting it to the outdoors.
Pairing your radon mitigation system with other preventative measures increases the effectiveness of the system. Following installation, it should still be paired with a radon detector to ensure it’s doing the job and radon levels are staying low.
Reduce the Risk of Radon
While the presence of radon sounds alarming, remember that it is a manageable issue. Regular testing and steps like improving ventilation, sealing cracks and possibly installing a radon mitigation system can significantly reduce radon levels and help ensure a safer home.
At Radon Crew, we want to make sure you and your family are protected from the risks of radon. Reach out to schedule a radon test today.