Do You Understand Radon Gas and What to Do About It?

Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally as a by-product in the decay of uranium, which is found in small amounts in rocks and soil in most parts of the United States. The gas is odorless and colorless. Here are some facts about radon that you’ll want to know when you look for your first home:

What does radon do?
Outdoors the gas passes off into the air relatively harmlessly. Indoors, however, it clings to dust and smoke, which can be inhaled. Inhaled in large quantities over a long period of time, it is believed to damage lung tissue and cause cancer.

How does radon get into homes?
Radon seeps into homes through cracks and holes in foundation walls and floors, through ventilators, sump pumps and other ground connectors.

How do experts tell if there is radon in a home?
Within the next two years or so, homes in many neighborhoods may be spot-checked by state and federal agencies. Some states provide radon test kits for homeowners to do their own testing, at little or no cost. Private firms also sell radon testing kits; the reliability of such firms can be ascertained by referring to the EPA’s radon-testing report (free by calling (800) 541-6442 or (800) 334-8571 or by writing to Radon Quality Assurance Coordinator, Research Triangle Institute, P.O. Box 12194, Research Triangle Park, N.C. 27709).

What can be done if radon is found in a home?
Steps include repairs as simple as sealing foundation cracks or methods as complex as installing ventilation systems that divert the gas, keeping most of it out of the house. Probably the best bet is to hire a contractor trained in radon treatment. Some situations may require the installation of a special vapor barrier under a new basement floor.

Where can someone find out more about radon?
The Environmental Protection Agency has recently completed two free information booklets on radon gas. "A Citizen’s Guide to Radon" is a basic 14-page introduction booklet that explains what radon is, what it does, the type of detectors used to monitor radon and the health risks associated with different concentrations of the gas.

If you want to be sure that you know about other things you should consider when buying your first home, e-mail me for more information.


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