What the HECK is Radon?
Well, in a nutshell, Radon is a poisonous gas that comes from soil, rock and even water. When Uranium is broken down, a gas is produced that can, at certain levels, be toxic to inhale. This gas enters homes through cracks and holes in the home's foundation.
Why Is Radon Deadly?
Radon gas, if inhaled at high enough levels for long enough, can cause lung cancer. So, basically, Radon is a cancer-causing gas. Scary...I know. Now, here are the scary facts:
Radon is estimated to cause about 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year, according to EPA's 2003 Assessment of Risks from Radon in Homes (EPA 402-R-03-003).
What are the Odds?
So, what are the odds of living in a house with elevated Radon levels you may ask? Well, according to the US EPA, "Nearly 1 out of every 15 homes in the United States is estimated to have an elevated radon level (4 pCi/L or more)."
Holy Crud!!! So, basically, the EPA is saying that you have a 7% chance of living in a home with toxic Radon fumes. That's 7% higher than I would want to chance.
But...the good thing about all of this, is that a Radon problem can be fixed.
How to Test and Fix the Problem
The EPA suggests testing all floors of home below the third for Radon gases. ESPECIALLY the basement. You can either hire a professional home inspector or a more specific Radon testing company...or, go to your local Lowes or Home Depot store and purchase a DIY kit for around twenty bucks. Either way, the results seem to be accurate. In my experience that is.
Now...how on earth do you get that nasty gas out of your home? I'm glad you asked. There are a few different ways, but, this guide will tell you everything you need to know for Radon removal: http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/consguid.html
Moral of This Radon Story
So, if you are planning on buying or selling a home..PLEASE have the home tested for Radon. There are more homes in our area that are harboring this poisonous gas, especially in Fulton and Gwinnett Counties. check out this local site to get more information: http://www.epa.gov/radon/states/georgia.html
Emily Benner
REAL Estate Expert
PalmerHouse Properties
678.458.2284
