Radon is a radioactive gas that naturally occurs after the breakdown of uranium and other elements underground. Over time, radon rising from the ground can accumulate in your home, dramatically increasing your risk of developing lung cancer. Because this gas is odorless and colorless, radon testing is essential for ensuring your home is safe.

A Homeowner’s Guide to Radon Gas

The Dangers of Radon

According to the EPA, radon exposure is responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths due to lung cancer every year, making it the second-leading cause of this dangerous disease. While smokers have a heightened risk of developing cancer, nonsmokers are not immune to radon. Even low doses of radon can be hazardous, so it’s important to mitigate the risk as much as possible.

Risk Factors for Radon Exposure

Radon is found in every state, from Georgia to California. While exposure is usually associated with homes that have basements, where radon seeps through the walls, the gas can collect in any type of dwelling.

Even houses with pier-and-beam foundations may contain elevated levels of this dangerous gas. The crawlspace under a house can trap radon, which eventually works its way through cracks in the wood and into your living space.

How to Reduce Radon Risk

Professional radon testing is the only way to measure the levels of gas in your home. If you’re buying a new home or your house has never been tested, schedule a radon test as soon as possible.

Fortunately, radon mitigation professionals have a variety of techniques for reducing gas concentrations. They may seal the soil to prevent radon from rising to the surface or install pipes that vent gas through the roof. Even if the tests reveal high concentrations, a professional can make your home safe for you and your family.

Have your home tested for and safeguarded against radon gas with cutting-edge technology and prompt service from Top To Bottom Inspection Services. They help keep homes throughout the Metro Atlanta area safe. Their team performs 48-hour testing and prepares detailed reports to ensure you understand the risk. Visit their website for more on their radon testing services, follow their Facebook for expert tips, or call (404) 838-0894 for a free estimate.