There is a lot of concerns when trying to buy or a sell home, or even living in one. Having a home inspection performed by a professional is a good way to set out the issues and make a home improvement list according to priority. But have you considered having a radon inspection completed? According to the EPA, DeKalb County, Cobb County, Fulton County and Gwinett County in the State of Georgia, are areas with elevated radon levels. If you live or are looking to buy in these or surrounding cities in the Metro area, you should consider a radon test.
Avoid Buying a House with High Radon Levels
What is radon? How does it occur? Why do I need to be concerned? Why do I need a radon inspection? There are a ton of questions just like these, and we at Lifeline Home Inspections, would like to answer these questions for you. We have compiled the frequently asked questions and answered them. If you do not see your question listed below, we can provide a consultation to help you better understand the dangers of radon.
What is Radon?
Radon is an odorless and colorless radioactive gas that can cause cancer. As you cannot smell, taste or see radon, it can easily go undetected for a long time. Radon forms naturally from the breakdown of uranium and other radioactive elements found in the soil. Radon gas in the soil can then move to our underground and surface water supplies as well as the air we breathe. The Surgeon General of the United States has issued a warning that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. If you are a smoker and have high radon levels in your home, the chances of getting lung cancer is extremely high.
Where Does Radon Come From?
There is a natural breakdown that occurs in uranium within the soil, rock and water that gets into the air you breathe. Radon will move through the ground and move into the air above, slipping through holes, cracks, and any other places it can get through into your home.
Radon Exposure Health Effects
Radon has been rated a Group A carcinogen. That basically translates to acquiring lung cancer after prolonged exposure. It has been studied in animal, hard-rock miners, and recently in residential cases. It is estimated that radon contributes to over 21,000 lung cancer deaths a year.
Is There a Test for Radon?
You can get your home tested to check for levels of radon in your home. Approximately one in every 15 homes will have elevated levels of radon. Getting your home tested can help you know what you are dealing with. If levels are excessive you can you can recruit the aid of modern technology and a professional to reduce the levels of radon.
How does Radon Get into Your Home?
As stated before, radon comes through the ground and into the air on the surface. It will move through your foundation and structure weaknesses. More common ways of entry are:
a) Cracks in solid flooring or gaps in suspended floors.
b) Construction joints.
c) Cracks in the exterior walls or cavities within the walls.
d) Water supply.
e) Gaps surrounding service pipes.
Professional Radon Testing, Home & Property Inspections & More Near Me in Fulton, Spalding, Coweta, Douglas, Pike, Upson & Fayette County, GA
There are thousands of questions concerning radon in buying and selling your home. Having the home tested in either situation is a responsible measure that can be a positive for both sides of the coin. To get a home tested for radon, along with a detailed home inspection, enlist the professionals at Lifeline Home Inspections. Our specialists have the skills, and necessary equipment to give you a detailed report on the home in question and conduct a radon test for your inquiry. Call us today to schedule your appointment.
