Radon- chemical dangers page

Radon

Key Concerns

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms in the soil and rocks beneath our homes. It seeps indoors through cracks in the foundation, gaps in floors and walls, construction joints, crawl spaces, sump pump openings, and even around pipes and drains. In some cases, radon can also enter a home through well water. This gas is especially concerning in older homes, where structural wear, poor sealing, and outdated construction practices make it easier for radon to accumulate particularly in basements and lower levels with limited airflow. Unlike other gases, radon has no color, smell, or taste, making it impossible to detect without proper testing. Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. Older adults may be especially vulnerable due to weakened lung function, a history of smoking, or chronic respiratory conditions. Because symptoms of radon exposure do not appear immediately, families may remain unaware of the danger for years. Regular radon testing and, if necessary, the installation of a mitigation system are essential steps to protect the health of those living in older or aging homes. According to the U.S. EPA, 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher is considered unsafe and requires action. However, even lower levels may still pose some risk over time.

Sources

Natural Breakdown of Uranium in Soil and Rock

Radon comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. As it forms underground, it rises and can enter homes through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, unfinished crawl spaces, and floor or wall joints. It can also be present in well water and released into the air during household use. While radon exists outdoors in low, harmless levels, it becomes dangerous when trapped and concentrated indoors especially in basements or poorly ventilated areas. Homes built over soil with high uranium content or with aging structures are more likely to have elevated radon levels.

How to Limit & Avoid Risks Associated with Radon

Test your home for radon using a simple, affordable radon test kit available online or at hardware stores.
Hire a professional for radon testing if you prefer a certified inspection or need detailed results.
Repeat radon tests every 2–5 years, or after major home renovations or changes to ventilation systems.
Seal cracks and openings in floors, foundations, and walls to reduce radon entry points.
Improve ventilation, especially in basements and crawl spaces, to help reduce indoor radon levels.
Install a radon mitigation system (such as a sub-slab depressurization system) if test results show high levels.
Avoid sleeping or spending extended time in basements if radon levels are elevated and not yet mitigated.
Ensure all fuel-burning appliances are vented properly, as they can contribute to indoor air quality issues.
Check local radon maps or consult your health department to see if your area has high natural radon levels.
Talk to your doctor if you’ve lived in a high-radon home for years, especially if you have a history of smoking or respiratory issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is radon and why is it dangerous?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It’s invisible, has no smell, and no taste—yet long-term exposure can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer.

2. How can I suspect if my home might have radon?
You cannot see or smell radon, so the only way to know for sure is through testing. However, you should consider testing if:

Your home has a basement or crawl space.
Your home is older or has foundation cracks.
You live in a high-radon zone (check with your state or local health department).
You or your family experience unexplained coughing, shortness of breath, or frequent respiratory issues and have lived in the home for years.

3. Where does radon come from?
Radon comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks. It rises through the ground and enters homes through cracks in the foundation, openings around pipes, floor joints, sump pump pits, and sometimes through well water.

4. Is radon only a concern in certain parts of the country?
Radon levels can vary widely, but it has been found in homes across all 50 states. Certain regions are more prone to higher radon levels due to underlying geology. Local health departments or the EPA provide radon zone maps.

5. How do I test my home for radon?
You can buy a radon test kit at a hardware store or online and place it in your lowest livable space (like a basement). Alternatively, you can hire a certified professional to conduct a test with specialized equipment for more accurate results.

6. What level of radon is considered unsafe?
According to the U.S. EPA, 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher is considered unsafe and requires action. However, even lower levels may still pose some risk over time.

7. What can I do if my radon levels are high?
If your test results are high, a professional can install a radon mitigation system—usually a vent pipe and fan that draws radon from under the home and releases it outside, away from living spaces.

8. Is radon only a concern in homes with basements?
No. While basements and lower levels are more likely to have high radon levels, any home can be affected—even those built on slabs or crawl spaces.