What is radon?

Radon is a colourless, odourless gas that is widely present in the earth’s surface. It comes from the radioactive breakdown of uranium. Uranium occurs naturally and can be found in small amounts in the soil, water and air.

Radon seeps into a home from surrounding soil. It comes up through pores in the soil under homes and buildings through gaps and cracks in foundation, concrete walls and floors, sumps, joints, basement drains and other openings. Unsafe levels of radon could accumulate in poorly ventilated homes and buildings.

Radon is usually not a problem outdoors as the air quickly dilutes it to lower levels. It sometimes contaminates well water.

What are the health effects of radon?

Radon is a radioactive gas and naturally breaks down to form decay products, called “radon daughters.” These can be inhaled deep into the lungs and seriously damage tissues.

Exposure to high levels of radon increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Your risk depends on the amount of time you are exposed to radon. Radon also increases the risk of lung cancer from smoking.

How do I know if I have radon in my home?

Since radon concentration varies from house to house even in the same area, the only way to find out if you have radon in your home is to test for it.

 Should I consider testing for radon if I am buying a home?

Testing of private homes for radon is currently not required during real estate transactions in Canada. However, if you are concerned about the radon levels of a home that you are considering purchasing, you can always request that a thorough house inspection be conducted to include radon testing as a condition of your offer

 

Give us a call to Schedule a radon test today. We offer short term (48hrs) and long term (1-12 month) testing.