How to determine if your Home has High Radon Gas Levels
Radon gas results from decomposition of of naturally-occurring uranium in the ground. Radon collects in attics and cellars through cracks in the floor or walls. Here are my 3 best tips when it comes to radon testing and mitigation:
1) There are affordable home radon testing kits available today. This is the best first step in detecting high radon levels in your home.
2) Symptoms of high radon gas levels include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, and respiratory ailments such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Unfortunately, detecting radon without proper testing kits and no symptoms is that the gas is colorless and odorless. This is where radon got the name "the silent killer."
3) Because radon comes from decaying uranium, those who live near uranium mines should be especially vigilant in their testing and mitigation efforts. Radon has a half-life of 3.8 days, which means that when detected, prevailing radon can be quickly eliminated. Ventilating your of home and sealing off cracks in the basement, walls, and floors is your best bet. In particular, you should check for cracked seals in basement floors and ceilings.
Preventing High Radon Gas Levels in your Home
The best way to avoid being harmed by high radon gas levels is to prevent exposure. Prevention primarily takes two forms:
1) Ventilation. Ensure that you have proper ventilation throughout your house. Invest in some ceiling and attic fans, and open doors and windows to get a cross-breeze through the home whenever possible.
2) Sealing cracks. Seal off any cracks in the floors that could possibly introduce radon into your home. Use a zero-permeability barrier to keep radon gas outside your living areas.
These steps will increase your family's protection against radon poisoning. However, if you test your home and find out that levels are extremely high, it is best to contact a radon mitigation professional to handle the job.
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