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Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that has been found
in homes all over the United States. Radon is originated from the
natural decay of uranium in soil, rocks and ground water. Radon
from surrounding soil enters into a home via small spaces and openings
such as: cracks in concrete, floor drains, sump pump openings, wall/floor
joints in basements, and the pores in hollow block walls. Radon
can seep into ground water and remain entrapped there.
For more information regarding radon in ground water call the
EPA's Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.
Radon generally concentrates in the areas of a home closest to
the ground. Radon levels typically decrease as one moves higher
up within the home. Testing is the only means to determine whether
or not a home contains a high level of radon. It is not advisable
to rely on radon results taken in other homes within your neighborhood
to estimate the radon level in your home. Homes which are located
next to each other can have variant radon levels. While radon problems
may be more common in some areas in your local community or state,
any home may have a high level of radon.
The health risk associated with prolonged inhalation of radon decay
products is an increased risk of developing lung cancer. When radon
gas breaks down it releases radioactive particles that circulate
in the air. As you breathe these particles, they can become trapped
in your lungs. As the particles continue to break down, they release
bursts of energy (radiation) which can damage lung tissue. This
damage can cause lung cancer. The EPA has determined that short-term
exposure to a high concentration of radon is not as severe of a
risk as is long-term exposure to a lower level.
There are many effective and relatively inexpensive methods of
reducing radon levels in a home. The method used will vary from
house to house and from region to region. The techniques used will
depend on the source of the gas, the method of which it enters the
home and the type of construction used in the home. Normally, the
cost of installing radon reduction equipment ranges from several
hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Radon source diagnosis
and mitigation normaly require skills and equipment not available
to the average homeowner. Therefore, it is always prudent to consider
the use of trained personnel.
Each BrickKicker franchisee is independently owned and operated.
This is an optional service that may not be offered in your area.
Please contact your local BrickKicker to determine if this service
is available.
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