Unless you have been living under a rock, you probably don’t know about radon. Radon, for the unversed, has been linked to lung cancer, and it is important to get homes checked for the presence of radon. Thankfully, there are some amazing services that can help in detecting and treating the concern. In New Jersey, services like RAdata work closely with property managers and homeowners, offering radon treatments at affordable prices. In this post, we are sharing answers to common questions about radon.
- What exactly is radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas found in nature, with no color, odor, or taste. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over 20,000 people die of lung cancer every year, because of potential exposure to radon. It is a serious health hazard, especially when someone is directly exposed to the gas. Radon is also one of the leading causes of lung cancer among non-smokers.
- Should you get your home tested for radon?
It is possible for radon to get into your home from the soil surrounding it. Homeowners are often shocked to find the presence of radon in wells. Getting your home tested for radon is a smart idea, even if you live in an area that’s not known for high radon levels. Radon gas can actually seep through cracks and make way into the foundation and walls, and given that there is no odor or color, it can be hard to detect. If you are buying a new home, ask the home inspector if the property has been checked for radon.
- What are other things to know about radon?
The biggest concern with radon is the lack of immediate health symptoms after exposure. There is no way you can know if there is radon gas in your home, unless you have checked. By the time someone is diagnosed with lung cancer, the symptoms may have worsened considerably. Studies show that at least one in four homes in the US have a higher level of radon gas. The current recommended action level at 4 pCi/L. Radon treatment doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated, and ideally, you should test your home for radon gas at least once every two to three years.
If you have made any structural changes to your home, or are purchasing a new property, radon testing is an absolute must. Call a professional service to get your home checked for the presence of radon.
