Radon Information

What is radon, and why is it a concern in our homes or work places?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is produced by the radioactive decay of radium. Breathing high concentrations of radon can cause lung cancer.

What is radon and where does it come from?

Radon is a cancer-causing gas found everywhere on earth. It is released into the atmosphere as uranium-laden soil and rocks degrade. Uranium has been around since the planet was formed, so the production of radon is an ongoing, unstoppable phenomenon. Radon can come directly out of the earth, or be released when well water is used. It tends to accumulate in enclosed spaces like underground mines and in buildings. Radon exposure is inevitable; the key is to keep this exposure to a minimum.

Who should test their house for radon?

The Environmental Protection Agency says everyone should test their house for radon. National Radon Defense can help you find a certified dealer in your area and get started on radon testing and mitigation today!

Is radon dangerous?

Radon is radioactive. More importantly, it decays radioactively into other elements that are also radioactive, and unlike radon these other elements (such as polonium) stick in the lungs if inhaled. There is also evidence that radon is much more dangerous to smokers than to non-smokers.

For lower concentrations the data is less clear. Some scientists believe that there might not be much risk, if any, from low exposures, but evidence is less conclusive. In 1993, a large-scale epidemiology study was initiated and funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). Read about the Iowa Radon Lung Cancer Study here.

How does radon enter a house?

Most radon gas comes through the soil. A crawl space with a dirt floor has the potential to maximize radon exposure. But even houses with seemingly sound foundations can have high radon levels. The radioactive gas can enter the foundation through cracks in floors and walls, through floor drains and sump openings, and through holes made for pipes and/or utility lines. Radon gas that accumulates in a basement or crawl space usually has no trouble migrating upstairs into main living areas.

Since radon is also likely to be present in well water, radon gas can enter the house as people take showers and baths or run water for other uses. However, this source of radon is not usually as significant as the soil.

How do I Know if My House or Building has Elevated Radon Levels?

Through testing. National Radon Defense can test your home for radon.

If after testing it is determined that your home has concentrations high enough that you require abatement, NRD can present you with the various methods of radon mitigation, cost analysis, and installation of a radon reduction system.

National Radon Defense is dedicated to helping home and business owners, property managers, and appointed municipal employees who have tested their facility or home for radon and confirmed that they have elevated radon levels - 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. Check the Radon Map.

We can help you:

• Get in contact with a qualified radon mitigation contractor to reduce the radon levels in your home or facility.
• Determine an appropriate radon reduction method. With various methods, including Soil suction, subslab suction, drain tile suction, sump hole suction, block wall suction, submembrane suction, sealing, house/room pressurization, heat recovery ventilation, natural ventilation, etc.
• Maintain your radon reduction system. NRD dealers have fully staffed Service Departments to ensure that your system is maintained well into the future.

To schedule a radon test, contact your local NRD dealer today!

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