Did you know that radon is the number one cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers? And yet, many people don’t even know what radon is. This blog post will explain why radon gas is such a common problem across the US, how radon gas gets into our homes, & how to assess and implement a mitigation system at home.
Where Does Radon Gas Come From?
The Radon gas is naturally present in the soil and atmosphere at minimal concentrations. It’s an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas that comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in the soil beneath us. One of the reasons radon is so common in US homes is that we have many uranium deposits in our soil, especially in granite-rich grounds.
How Does Radon Gas Get Into Our Homes?
Radon seeps through the soil up to the surface, and sometimes our home is on its way. The air pressure inside a house is typically lower than the pressure outside the foundation. The pressure creates a vacuum, drawing radon inside your home.
These are the most common way radon seeps into your home:
- Cracks & other openings in the foundation. Radon rapidly builds up in your basement and rooms, reaching dangerous levels over time.
- Water wells pipes and through the shower. If our water source gets contaminated with radon traces, we expose ourselves to this radioactive gas.
High-Risk Area Radon Map
These maps can help you visualize if you live in an area prone to radon contamination. It’s essential to use these maps as a reference only. As radon gas is present everywhere, only through the proper test you’ll be confident your home is safe.
Worried About Radon? Install a Radon Mitigation System
Radon is a very common contaminant and the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers in the US. And unnoticeable to the human senses. So yeah, you’re right to be worried. However, you can get your indoor air fixed quickly and reasonably inexpensively with a radon mitigation company, like Radon Control Services.
With over 20+ years of experience, Radon Control Services is the leading radon mitigation services provider in St. Louis, MO. You can rely on our accurate measurements, diagnoses, and radon solutions. Get in contact with us to schedule an appointment.
