Radon is a naturally occurring gas caused by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. It is radioactive and can cause damage if breathed in over long periods of time. In fact, radon is second only to smoking as the leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

Airborne Radon

Radon is created in the ground and rises up through the soil and into the air. This is not a problem outdoors because the gas cannot concentrate in the open air. However, radon can seep into your home through cracks in the foundation and become trapped in the air indoors. If it continues unaltered, it will build up to dangerous levels. Radon is tasteless, colorless and odorless. The only way to know if it is present is to have your home tested, which the EPA recommends all concerned homeowner should do. If radon is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) of air or higher, you need to take action.

Waterborne Radon

Soil radon is the most common form, but radon can also be found in well water. If you live in an area with granite or gravel formations, radon may be concentrated in the groundwater. It can then seep into drinking wells. There are no recommended standards for radon levels in the water. Water consultation services Weston CT can let you know if you should consider mitigation.

Radon Mitigation

If your home tests high for airborne radon, you can have a radon reduction system installed. These systems will either prevent the radon from entering your home or lower the levels of radon already in your home. If you have waterborne radon, your options are aeration treatment (mixing the water with air) or GAC treatment (running the water through a carbon filter). For any type of mitigation, be sure to hire a licensed contractor with specialized skills in radon mitigation.