Micronix Mold & Trauma Services

What is Radon?

Radon is a colorless, tasteless and odorless gas that causes lung cancer. Exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after smoking. Radon-related lung cancers result in an estimated 21,000 deaths annually in the United States.

​How Does Radon Enter My Home?

Radon forms naturally. Uranium in soil or rock breaks down to form radium, which then turns into radon gas. Once formed, radon enters a building through cracks in walls, basement floors, foundations and other openings. As radon decays, it releases radioactive byproducts that are inhaled and can cause lung cancer. Because radon comes from rock and soil, it can be found anywhere. Being exposed to limited amounts, like those found outdoors, is impossible to avoid. However, when radon gets trapped indoors, it may exist in dangerous at dangerous amounts.

Less often, radon may enter buildings from water used in bathroom showers and faucets. Concerns have also been raised about the radon released indoors from building materials, such as granite counter tops or tiles. However, these sources have rarely proven to be a problem.

 

If you have an existing home with elevated levels of radon,

you can fix the problem by having a radon mitigation system installed. A radon mitigation system consists of a vent pipe, fan and the sealing of cracks in in the baseline floor and foundation. This system collects radon gas from underneath the foundation and vents it to the outside of your home. If you need to have a radon mitigation system installed, it is best to hire a certified radon mitigation professional.

​

Here are some benefits for having a Radon Mitigation System Installed: