Radon is estimated to cause about 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year.
US Environmental Protection Agency
In Colorado, if you don't have an active system of removing radon from your house, you probably have it.
Radon is a naturally occurring gas that seeps into your home through the foundation and into the air you breathe. Breathing high concentrations of radon or concentrations over a long period of time can cause lung cancer. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, radon is the second most frequent cause of lung cancer, after cigarette smoking, causing 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the United States.
For that reason, radon is considered by the Environmental Protection Agency to be a significant contaminant that affects indoor air quality.
If you can’t hear it, smell it, touch it, or taste it, how do I know it’s there?
The only way to know if radon is in your home is to test for it. Certified radon Testers such as Home Inspectors have a Charcoal Canister, Electret Ion Chamber, Continuous Working Level Monitor or Continuous radon Monitor. The results will be sent to a laboratory to produce your results or printed out for the radon Technician to report to you.
All tests are required to have a 12 hour closed house conditions before your 48 test starts for the full measurement time needed. Which means all doors and windows closed except for normal in and out. Your test will last for at least 48 hours (2 days). This is called a short term test. A long term test will be a 90 day test or longer.
Certified radon Testing and Mitigation Professionals are required to follow the rules or Standards of the EPA. But when it comes to you and your family's health, you don't want to cut corners.
In the same way that you look for a good Mechanic or Contractor, do your homework. Ask someone you know, call your local building department to find a local Mitigator in your town, or check your local Chamber of Commerce for a good quality radon Mitigator.
Check around or contact us. We'll be happy to answer any of your questions or provide referrals to help you feel confident that you're making the best choice.
Or learn more about this through the The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors' Home Owners Guide to Radon.
Peaks to Plains Construction is the only Castle Rock-based Certified Radon Mitigation Company. We want to provide you with everything you need for your home or business. Contact us today to get your house tested and mitigated so you can feel comfortable knowing you are safe from radon.