3 Potential Sources of Radon Within a Home

Radon is a gas that is extremely dangerous and hard to detect without the proper equipment. In fact, statistics gathered from the United States Environmental Protection Agency found that nearly 20,000 deaths caused by lung cancer took place due to exposure to radon. Exposure to radon is the second most common cause of lung cancer, only behind smoking cigarettes. Considering that, it’s crucially important to ensure you’re aware of the certain sources that can cause radon levels to skyrocket. Here are three sources of radon to watch out for on your property.

1. Building Materials
   
   Many instances of radon are found in and around certain building materials. These materials can contain trace amounts of dangerous materials including radium and uranium, both of which can cause radon emissions. Radon mitigation services commonly are called upon to check for this gas emitting from concrete, granite, brick, and other similar materials. If your property is made with any of the previously mentioned materials, it’s wise to have radon testing conducted.
2. Older Smoke Detectors
   
   It’s important to note that certain types of smoke detectors can emit low amounts of radon. With that in mind, the main types of smoke detectors to watch out for are those that utilize ionization. In addition, you’ll want to remember that smoke detectors can’t detect the presence of radon which is a common misconception. Radon testing companies will ensure that any sources of this dangerous material are found so that they can be removed from your property.
3. Certain Types of Watches
   
   Don’t worry, it’s highly unlikely you’re wearing a watch that is currently emitting radon. However, it’s important to know that a few rare types of watches are made with materials that vastly increase your risk of radon exposure. With that in mind, older watches that feature paint meant to give the watch a glowing look can contain radium which emits high levels of radon. No matter how small the emission rate, it’s important to note that all potential sources of radon are looked at. In fact, statistics show that a people living in a home with radon levels of 4 PCI/l are being exposed to 35 times more radiation allowed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in the event the family was next to the barrier of a radioactive waste site.

To summarize, there are several sources within a home that can cause excessive exposure to radon. In many cases, radon can emit from certain building materials including brick, cement, granite, and concrete. Certain smoke detectors, especially those that utilize ionization, are known to contain smaller amounts of radon. With that in mind, homes that contain these types of smoke detectors in each room raise the amount of radon one is exposed to. While not extremely common, older watches that utilize a glow in the dark feature can be made using certain paints that emit radon. It’s wise to contact a radon testing service to ensure that your property is safe from this dangerous gas.

air max 90 air max 90 air max 90