Choosing a Radon Testing & Mitigation Contractor

What is radon?

Radon seems so mysterious because it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless to those who are exposed. Radon is produced when the elements uranium, radium, and thorium decay. Radon itself is a known carcinogen and is hazardous when it breaks down inside of the home. Among non-smokers, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer. Learn more.

Can homes without basements have radon?

Radon is produced when the elements uranium, radium, and thorium decay, and this can occur in many different environments. Radon gas is most commonly found in the soil underneath a home, but can also be found in water, air, and building materials. No certain home style is immune to radon gas, which is why it’s essential to be proactive with radon testing whether your home has a basement or not.

What are the symptoms of radon poisoning?

Radon poisoning occurs when a person breathes in high levels of radon for an extended period of time. Radon poisoning has no symptoms itself, but can lead to lung cancer and other lung issues, which will present uncomfortable symptoms early on. The early warning signs of lung cancer include:

• Coughing & wheezing
• Fatigue
• Coughing up blood & loss of appetite
• Chest pains & respiratory infections

If you think you may have been exposed to radon gas, seek medical help. HomePro Match can connect you with a radon testing or radon mitigation contractor to mediate high radon levels in your home.

Does radon cause cancer?

Radon gas is an extremely hazardous carcinogen, confirmed in 1998. In fact, radon is known to be the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., and the highest leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. People who smoke are at an increased risk of developing lung problems if they live in a house with radon gas emissions.

Are radon levels higher in the winter?

It is estimated that 1 in 15 homes has high radon levels. Technically, these high radon levels are not higher in the winter. The reason for this common misconception is due to more time spent indoors during the window, along with windows being closed for several months which can insulate radon gas inside of your home. Tightly insulated homes are more likely to test for higher levels of radon.

How do I get rid of radon?

Radon mitigation systems are the most successful method to reduce high radon levels in your home. There are a number of radon mitigation system types, and your radon mitigation contractor will review these products with you to determine which one is best for you. Essentially, radon mitigation systems use pipes and fans to absorb high radon levels and expel them to the outdoors. Some radon mitigation systems remove radon before it enters the home, while others may work to mitigate radon that is already inside. The type of home, levels of radon present, and other factors will make a difference in this decision.