Testing Your Home For Elevated Levels Of Radon

Posted on: 18 August 2022

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Unfortunately, there can be many invisible threats in your home that could put you and your loved ones at severe risk. Radon is one example of this, as it can be a gas that is clear and odorless. Due to these factors, individuals may not be able to notice when they are being exposed to excessive concentrations of it.

Radon Testing Can Protect Yourself And Your Family

Radon testing can be the only reliable way of determining whether this gas is a developing problem in the home. While radon is a naturally occurring gas, it will generally only be found in trace concentrations. In the confines of a home, this gas can start to accumulate to levels that may contribute to individuals developing cancer or other serious health problems. Regular radon testing can be an effective tool for determining whether this is an issue that is potentially starting to develop in your home.

Radon Can Be Effectively Mitigated

While exposure to radon gas can be extremely harmful, it can be possible to mitigate this gas's ability to enter your home. In particular, sealing the crawlspaces and basement can be an effective step in this process since radon will be released by the soil under the home. In addition to sealing these areas, air circulation and ventilation may also be increased to allow any radon to be quickly removed from this space. The particular process that is needed for radon mitigation can vary depending on the design of the home and the areas that are vulnerable to radon gas.

 Radon Tests Should Not Be Disturbed During The Test

Radon will typically only be present in very small concentrations. This can make testing for this gas a challenge. However, modern radon testing kits are sensitive enough to be able to detect this gas. To do this, these tests may need to be left in place for an extended period of time as this will allow the test kit to accurately measure the amount of radon that is in the air. Throughout the time that the test is being conducted, you have to avoid disturbing it as this could significantly impact the quality of the results that you are able to get from it. For those with children or pets, it is advisable to position these test kits in an area where they will be unable to reach, as they may become curious about these new devices that have been placed in the home.