There are many toxins and harmful elements in the environment around you that are naturally occurring, such as mold and radon. However, just because they exist around you does not mean they need to be a part of your home interior and there are methods to make sure your home is and stays free of the risk of exposure. Here are some recommendations to keep your home safe and free of radon and its harmful exposure risks.
Recognize Radon Risks
When radon exists in the soil and foundation below your home, there is no way to tell from the appearance of the soil, rocks, or the surrounding landscaping. Depending on where you live in the country, the type of minerals found below your home, and the way radon gas can seep into your home can all affect how much or the amount of radon that collects in your home. Decaying uranium naturally present in the soil will emit radon gas up and into your home. And if you have a water well on your property, this can be a source and route for the radon entering your home, as well.
The problem with radon entering your home through cracks and small openings along the foundation is that once it gets in your home's air it becomes trapped and accumulates to a high and dangerous level. This is why it is important to recognize the risk of radon and have your home's air tested for dangerous levels so you can correct them and vent them from your home.
Arrange for Testing
You can test your home's interior air for radon levels through several different options. You can order a radon test from a residential radon testing company and set up the test yourself. Or you can buy one from a local home and garden retailer to complete the test yourself. Professional radon testing services are available in many areas locally and you can arrange for them to come to your home and set up the test to get the most accurate results. There are short term and long term tests to measure the air radon levels over a period of a day or several days to weeks.
When you test for radon, you should place it in the lowest level of your home that you use regularly, such as a basement living space or bedroom. Place the test up off the floor, such as on a chair. Testing during the winter when your home's heating system is on is a great time to test because you test the home's air quality during a closed-off environment when radon is likely to accumulate. You don't want to leave exterior doors or windows open during the test because they will allow the radon to vent out instead of measuring the radon.