Old Homes vs New Homes: Which One Has Higher Radon Levels?
Radon is a radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer and other health problems. It is naturally present in the soil and rocks, but it can also enter your home through cracks and gaps in the foundation, walls, and pipes. Radon levels vary depending on the location, construction, and ventilation of your home. But how do you know if your home has high radon levels? And what can you do to reduce them?
In this blog post, we will compare the radon levels in old homes vs new homes, and explain why you should test your home for radon regularly. We will also introduce you to Spectra Radon, a full service radon company that specializes in radon testing, radon mitigation, and radon consulting services headquartered in Calgary.
Old Homes vs New Homes: Which One Has Higher Radon Levels?
You might think that newer homes are safer and have lower radon levels than older homes, but that is not necessarily true. In fact, there is no clear correlation between the age of a home and its radon level. Some old homes may have low radon levels, while some new homes may have high radon levels. This is because radon levels depend on many factors, such as:
The type and quality of the materials used to build the home
The design and layout of the home
The soil and geology of the area where the home is located
The weather and seasonal changes
The habits and lifestyle of the occupants
For example, a new home may have higher radon levels than an old home if it is built on a radon-rich soil, has a tight and energy-efficient construction that traps radon inside, or has a basement or crawl space that is poorly ventilated. On the other hand, an old home may have lower radon levels than a new home if it is built on a radon-poor soil, has a loose and drafty construction that allows radon to escape, or has a well-ventilated basement or crawl space.
The only way to know the radon level of your home is to test it. You cannot simply rely on the age of your home or the radon levels of your neighbors' homes to estimate your own radon level. Radon levels can vary significantly from one home to another, even within the same neighborhood or street.
Why You Should Test Your Home for Radon Regularly
Radon, often referred to as the silent killer, poses a significant health threat due to its invisible, odorless, and tasteless nature. Health Canada underscores the insidious nature of radon exposure, highlighting its status as the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. According to estimates, approximately 16% of lung cancer deaths in Canada are attributable to radon exposure, emphasizing the magnitude of the health risks posed by this radioactive gas.
To mitigate the risks associated with radon exposure, regular testing of indoor radon levels is paramount. Health Canada recommends testing homes for radon at least once every two years to ensure ongoing monitoring of radon concentrations. Additionally, homeowners are advised to conduct radon testing following any significant changes to the home's structure or ventilation system, such as renovations, repairs, or alterations. Testing for radon is also recommended when moving to a new home or if individuals experience symptoms of lung cancer, such as persistent coughing, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
Testing for radon in the home is both accessible and affordable, with various options available to homeowners. Do-it-yourself radon test kits, readily available at hardware stores or online retailers, offer a convenient and cost-effective means of assessing indoor radon levels. These test kits typically include passive or active devices that absorb radon gas over a specified period, providing accurate measurements of indoor radon concentrations. Alternatively, homeowners can enlist the services of certified radon professionals to conduct radon testing and analysis, ensuring reliable and accurate results.
Placement of radon test kits is critical for obtaining representative measurements of indoor radon levels. Health Canada advises placing radon test devices in the lowest livable area of the home, such as the basement or ground floor, where radon concentrations are typically highest. By strategically positioning test kits in areas with frequent human occupancy, homeowners can obtain reliable data on indoor radon levels and make informed decisions regarding radon mitigation measures.
If radon levels exceed the Canadian guideline of 200 becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m3), prompt action is recommended to reduce radon exposure risks. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) emphasizes the importance of mitigating elevated radon levels to safeguard respiratory health and prevent lung cancer. Radon mitigation techniques, such as sub-slab depressurization, soil suction, and ventilation improvements, can effectively reduce indoor radon concentrations and promote a healthier indoor environment for occupants.
How to Reduce Your Radon Level with Spectra Radon
If your home has high radon levels, you should not panic. There are effective and proven ways to reduce your radon level and make your home safer and healthier. The best way to reduce your radon level is to hire a certified radon professional to install a radon mitigation system in your home. A radon mitigation system is a system that reduces the amount of radon that enters your home from the soil and rocks. It usually consists of a pipe that collects the radon from below the foundation of your home, and a fan that pushes the radon outside the home through the pipe. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), a radon mitigation system can reduce your radon level by up to 90% or more.
If you are looking for a reliable and experienced radon professional to install a radon mitigation system in your home, you should contact Spectra Radon. Spectra Radon is a company that specializes in radon testing and radon mitigation services in Calgary and surrounding areas. We have helped thousands of homeowners and businesses to reduce their radon levels and improve their indoor air quality. We have a team of certified radon experts who can assess your radon situation, design and install a customized radon mitigation system, and monitor and maintain your system to ensure its optimal performance.
At Spectra Radon, we care about your health and safety. We use the latest technology and equipment to provide you with the best radon solutions. We also offer competitive pricing and flexible financing options to suit your budget and needs. Whether you need a radon test, a radon mitigation system, or a radon consultation, we are here to help you. Contact us today to get a free quote or to schedule a service. We look forward to hearing from you and serving you.
Conclusion
Radon is a serious health hazard that can affect any home, old or new. You should test your home for radon regularly, and if your radon level is high, you should reduce it with a radon mitigation system. Spectra Radon is a trusted and reputable company that can help you with all your radon needs. We have the expertise, experience, and equipment to provide you with the best radon solutions. Don't let radon ruin your health and your home. Call Spectra Radon today and breathe easy tomorrow.
Do you have any questions or comments about radon or our services? Please send us a message we will get back to you as soon as possible.