Radon is a radioactive gas that is formed when uranium in soil, rocks and water breaks down. Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and because it is invisible, odorless and tasteless, radon testing is the only way to find out if you have high levels in your home. While certain areas are known for high radon levels, the gas can contaminate homes everywhere.
Causes of High Levels
When naturally occurring radon reaches the surface, it can enter a home through cracks and gaps. Common problem areas are spaces in floors, construction joints, gaps around pipes and wall cavities, according to the EPA. Less commonly, radon may enter a home through well water or ground water from a public supply. Radon that is present in water can become airborne when you shower or use water for other household purposes.
Health Effects
Radon gas breaks down to form radioactive particles that can enter the lungs when you breathe. As the particles continue to decay in the lungs, they release bursts of energy that damage lung tissue, according to the EPA. Over time, this damage can lead to lung cancer. The risk of developing lung cancer increases as a home's radon level increases. For instance, the EPA estimates that about seven out of 1,000 people living with a lifetime radon level of 4 pCi/L, or picocuries per liter, will get lung cancer. When levels reach 20 pCi/L, about 36 people out of 1,000 could get cancer. The cancer risk is significantly higher if you also smoke.
Testing
Short-term radon tests are available at hardware stores. These devices are placed in a home for a period of time ranging from a few days to three months, depending on the product. Long-term tests are left in a home for more than three months, and they can offer more information about a home's average radon level. The EPA recommends homeowners use a short-term test first, and then retest if levels are above 4 pCi/L. If the first test result is more than 8 pCi/L, you should follow up with another short-term test immediately so you can fix your home if needed. If the initial test shows a radon level under 8 pCi/L, a long-term test might be beneficial.
Reduction
The EPA recommends any home with radon levels higher than 4 pCi/L be fixed by a qualified radon mitigation contractor. You can contact your state radon office for a list of qualified contractors. If you want to fix your home yourself, you should ask your state radon office about training courses, and get guidance documents from the EPA.
Considerations
If you are planning to sell your home, consider testing it for radon so results will be available if a potential buyer asks for them. If you are planning to buy a home, consider asking if it was built with radon-resistant construction techniques, especially if you live in an area known to have high radon levels.
