Radon is an odorless and colorless gas that comes from radioactive elements underground. It leaks into a building through cracks in the foundation. Because of its radioactive origins, radon poses a low-level background radiation hazard in a building. Long-level exposure to radon exposes the occupants to health risks, including cancer. Therefore, it is advisable to schedule regular residential radon tests to mitigate this risk. If you are a homeowner or looking to buy a house, there are several good reasons to schedule residential radon testing:
Mitigate Against Cancer Risks
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identifies radon as a carcinogen. The agency says this gas causes the second-highest number of lung cancer deaths after tobacco smoke. This is because the radioactive particles in the gas trigger the formation of cancerous cells.
The problem is that this gas is odorless and invisible, which makes it hard to detect without special kits. Building contractors may not test for radon before putting up a house. The only way to mitigate against this risk is by residential radon testing with special radon kits. You can then do remedial measures when there is a confirmed presence of radon in the house.
Safeguard Children Development
Radon exposure is even greater for children than adults because their body cells are still in physical development. Inhalation of radioactive particles can alter the development of their cardiovascular system. There is a high probability of the growing cells mutating into cancerous cells.
Residential radon tests can be very helpful for a family with children and teens in the house. It safeguards against serious illnesses at an early age, which can alter their path in life completely. It also saves the family the emotional agony and financial pressures of a serious illness like cancer.
Mark the House as a Safe Purchase
If you are selling your house, it is highly advisable to schedule residential radon testing. You can organize for remedial measures before a serious buyer starts the process of buying the house. Today's buyers are more aware of radon and can ask for a test when doing a home inspection.
Scheduling a radon test beforehand and remedying the situation gives your potential buyers confidence to make a safe purchase. You can also sell your house as intended without the buyer seeking to lower the price on account of radon mitigation.
Would you like the peace of mind from knowing your family is safe from radon exposure? Talk to a radon testing service on scheduling a test.