Radon in a Home

Radon is a naturally occurring, invisible, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that poses a serious health risk when it accumulates inside homes. Originating from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water, radon can seep into buildings through cracks in foundations, gaps in floors, and even through well water. Despite its silent presence, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), making awareness and mitigation critical for homeowners.

How Radon Enters the Home
Radon gas forms underground and moves upward through the soil. When it encounters the foundation of a home, it can enter through:

• Cracks in concrete floors and walls
• Construction joints
• Gaps around service pipes
• Cavities inside walls
• Sump pumps or floor drains
• Well water (in rare cases)

Once inside, radon can become trapped, especially in energy-efficient homes that are well-sealed. It often accumulates in basements or crawlspaces but can be found on any level of a home.

Health Risks Associated with Radon Exposure
1. Lung Cancer
The most significant health risk of radon exposure is lung cancer. When inhaled, radon decay products release radiation that damages the cells lining the lungs. Over time, this damage can lead to cancer. The risk is higher for:

• Smokers, due to a compounding effect
• Long-term residents in high-radon homes
• Children and elderly individuals, who may be more vulnerable

According to the EPA, radon causes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually in the U.S. alone.
2. No Immediate Symptoms
Unlike carbon monoxide poisoning, radon exposure doesn’t cause immediate symptoms like headaches or dizziness. This makes it especially dangerous because residents can live in a high-radon environment for years without realizing they’re at risk.
3. Higher Risk with Smoking
Smoking in a radon-rich environment significantly increases the chances of lung cancer. For example, the lifetime lung cancer risk for smokers exposed to 10 pCi/L of radon is about 18 times higher than for non-smokers.

Testing for Radon
Because radon is undetectable without specialized equipment, testing is the only way to know if a home has high levels. There are two main types of radon testing kits:

• Short-term tests (2–90 days): Ideal for initial screening.
• Long-term tests (90+ days): Provide a more accurate average radon level over time.

Homeowners can purchase test kits from hardware stores, online, or hire a certified radon professional to conduct the testing.

Mitigating Radon in Homes
If a home has radon levels of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher, the EPA recommends taking action. Mitigation methods include:

• Sub-slab depressurization: A vent pipe and fan system draw radon from beneath the house and release it outside.
• Sealing cracks and openings: Reduces radon entry points but is usually not enough on its own.
• Improving ventilation: Increasing airflow in the home can help lower radon levels, especially in basements and crawlspaces.
• Water treatment: If radon enters through well water, systems such as aeration or activated carbon filters can remove it before it enters the home’s air.

Radon and Real Estate Transactions
Radon testing is often part of the home inspection process during real estate transactions. Buyers may request radon test results or ask the seller to conduct a test before finalizing the sale. In some states, disclosure of known radon levels is mandatory.

Conclusion
Radon is a silent but significant health hazard that can affect any home, regardless of age, design, or location. Given its proven link to lung cancer and the absence of immediate symptoms, proactive testing and mitigation are essential. Homeowners should not assume they are safe simply because their neighbors are; radon levels can vary widely from house to house. Regular testing and, if necessary, mitigation can ensure a safer living environment and protect long-term health.

​Resources for Further Information:

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – www.epa.gov/radon
• National Radon Program Services – sosradon.org
• American Lung Association – www.lung.org