Radon Testing
Radon is a gas that you can't see, smell, or taste - but it can be dangerous. It is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Learn more about radon here and the value of radon testing to keep your family safe.
What is Radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rocks, and water. It can seep into homes from the ground. It is invisible, odorless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without proper testing
Health Risks
As radon decays, it releases tiny radioactive particles that, when inhaled, can damage lung tissue over time. When radon particles are inhaled, they damage lung tissue and increase the risk of cancer. It's not just smokers who are at risk; even non-smokers exposed to elevated radon levels face potential health hazards.
Mitigation Opportunities
If your home tests high for radon, mitigation measures can be taken to reduce the levels and minimize the risk to you and your family. Radon mitigation systems, such as active sub-slab depressurization or ventilation, can be installed to prevent radon from entering your living spaces.
Radon in Georgia
North Georgia has been found to have radon levels above the recommended safety thresholds set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The area's geological composition, which includes granite rock and certain types of soil, contributes to the higher concentration of radon gas in the region.
Common Presence
Radon can be found in homes of any age, location, or construction type. It can seep into your home through cracks in the foundation, gaps in floors, walls, and around pipes, as well as through well water. Even well-sealed and insulated homes are not immune to radon infiltration. Homes with basements have a higher risk of elevated radon levels.
Real Estate Transactions
Radon testing is often recommended during real estate transactions. Buyers want to ensure that the home they are purchasing is safe from radon exposure. Sellers, on the other hand, can use radon testing as a selling point if their home has low radon levels.