Should I be worried about radon in my home?
Radon should be a concern for anyone living in a home. Here is why, and how to detect it.
Signs of Exposure
The sure-fire way to know if you’ve been exposed to radon is testing for it. Soil composition around and in your home is what affects radon levels. A radon detecting device is really the only way to notice radon as it is colorless and odorless.
Invest in a Radon Monitor
A long-term radon monitor is highly recommended for your home as a protective and preventative measure. Your average radon exposure level will be accurately estimated with such a device. Depending on the air pressure, the season, the weather, and other factors, radon levels can vary, which is why hiring someone to do a short-term test can bring inaccurate results. Those typically measure 1 – 2 days, whereas radon levels can change from week to week or month to month. Further, a short-term testing service cost just as much as investing in a long-term monitor.
Origins
When uranium and radium decompose in the ground, a byproduct of it is radon. Both elements are found in almost all rocks and soils. The resulting radon seeps in through small gaps and cracks in a home’s foundation.
Radon Causes Lung Cancer
The National Cancer Institute says that radon gives off tiny radioactive particles due to rapid decay. This radioactive material is what can cause cancer in the lungs when inhaled. It damages the cells in the lining of the lung. Breathing it long-term greatly increases the risk of cancer. For non-smokers, radon is the number one cause of lung cancer. If non-smokers in the home do develop lung cancer, it is wise to get the house accurately tested for radon exposure.
Monroe County Levels
According to the EPA, Monroe County has elevated levels of radon. The Indiana zone map shows Monroe in Zone 1, in red, indicating higher levels. In contrast, neighboring Brown County is designated Zone 2, in orange. This means Brown County’s levels are less severe. The EPA emphasizes that all homes should be tested for radon, regardless of their zone designation.
Seasonal Exposure
The winter months usually tend to have elevated levels of radon. This is often because doors and windows remain closed to keep out the cold temperatures. A tightly shut house may elevate radon levels.
To learn more about how this affects your family and home please visit us at call us at 812-327-1127 for a free estimate today.