If you are wondering what radon is, it is a odorless, colorless gas that is produced by the radioactive
decay of the element radium. Radioactive decay is a natural, spontaneous process in our atmosphere.
Radon is measured at about 1 picocurie per million in the air we breathe and is no threat to us at that
level. The problem exists if you are in an enclosed space with little ventilation, such as your basement.
According to the US Surgeon General's office, radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in
the country. A thorough explanation of radon is given at US Environmental Protection Agency.
The National Safety Council also provides information and help toconsumers for lowering radon
levels in their homes.
The Kent County Health Department has short term test kits available
at the 700 Fuller NE Ave location Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to
5:00PM for about $ 5.00. This test will give you results of the radon
level in your home. It has to be set up for about 2 days and then
simply mailed in to a lab for testing. You are notified of the results by
email or you can get your results on the website.
Nearly one in eight homes in Grand Rapids, Michigan is expected to have elevated radon levels.
The gas could be seeping into your home through tiny cracks in your foundation. The experts tell us
that anything over 4 picocuries per million is a possible danger through long term exposure. If corrective
action is necessary, detailed information and local certified contractors are available to you from the
Kent County Health Dept. or give me a call. I have radon mitigation experts that I can recommend.
If you are planning on selling your home, this information could save you a lot of trouble. I have seen
clients walk away from a home purchase because of radon issues. If you find out ahead of time and correct
the problem, there is much less chance of a problem occurring. Radon testing is also commonly done by
buyers along with home inspections. If you have recently tested, it could forestall any complications on
closing your home sale.
Be safe, whether you are planning on selling your home or staying there for the next 20 years.
Get a radon test kit and use it!
Copyright 2008 Terry Westbrook
Contact me at 1-888-240-1968 ext 0
Website url: Terry Westbrook.com
Email: terry@TerryWestbrook.com
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You know, I've often wondered about whether we are minimizing the impact of the radon issue by primarly being concerned about the basement? With so many homes being built which are sealed much more tightly, I wonder if this is an issue which may be more than what we currently normally consider.
Lola:A number of the builders are building radon mitigation systems into the home during construction because of that issue. It is not expensive to add during construction.