When It's Time to Consider Radon Mitigation

Unlike a leaking roof or a dripping faucet, there are no obvious indications of problem that needs to be fixed when you're dealing with radon gas in your home. While radon can cause cancer, there aren't even any clear signs you may be suffering from radon poisoning, according to the Centers for Disease Control. However, there are some ways to determine if it's time to call a professional to identify and remedy the problem.

You Live in an Older Home
There's no one style of home that's more likely to have a radon problem. However, homes built before 1970 have no mitigation system in place to reduce the risk of radon gas accumulation. If you live in an older home, or if you're moving into an older home, it's a good idea to schedule an inspection for your own peace of mind. According to the EPA, radon levels of 4 pCi/L or higher require action to reduce those levels.

You Have Foundation Cracks
Cracks in foundation walls and floors can be a source for previously trapped radon gas to seep into parts of your home undetected. Taking steps to have both obvious and "hidden" cracks detected with special equipment used during a typical inspection repaired can help to prevent radon gas from entering your home. Remediation also includes making adjustments to your home to allow for proper ventilation of any radon gas that may be underneath your home. Cracks in your basement floor can also be an entry point for radon gas.

Improperly Maintained Crawl Spaces and Attics
If you live in a home that has crawl spaces or an attic that hasn't been well-maintained over the years, you could have radon gas seeping into your home through your ducts and vents. It's estimated that roughly half of the air that enters your home, including air contaminated with radon gas, comes in through either basements, crawl spaces, or attics. Mitigation efforts typically include sealing such spaces and checking vents for cracks.

Radon is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas. While there will always be some level of radon present in most homes, high levels of this gas are extremely dangerous to humans. If you suspect that it may be time for a radon inspection, companies like S.W.A.T. Environmental that provide radon mitigation can safely provide such services. For more information, click here.