- November 14, 2024
- Posted by: Chris Croft
- Categories: News, Radon Testing
In this post, you’ll learn why radon isn’t just an “old home” problem, what factors contribute to radon exposure, and why testing is essential for all types of homes in regions like Windsor-Essex County and Chatham-Kent.
Why Radon Can Accumulate in Any Building
Radon is often associated with older homes, but the truth is that any building—whether new or old—can have high radon levels. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes through soil and foundation cracks, and it has nothing to do with the age of the property.
Radon forms from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It can enter buildings through foundation cracks, wall gaps, or around pipes. Since radon comes from below the ground, it’s a concern for homes regardless of their age or style of construction. Here’s why:
- Modern Construction Practices: Newer homes are often built with improved insulation and energy-efficient materials, creating tightly sealed spaces that trap indoor air. While this makes homes more energy-efficient, it also prevents radon from escaping, allowing it to build up to potentially harmful levels.
- Building Materials: Some building materials, including stone, concrete, and certain types of brick, can contain trace amounts of uranium, contributing to radon levels indoors. Although minimal, this can add to radon accumulation, especially in tightly sealed homes.
- Ventilation and Air Flow: Whether a home is old or new, inadequate ventilation can lead to a buildup of radon. Homes with poor airflow, sealed windows, or limited air exchange with the outside environment can trap radon, increasing its concentration over time.
- Foundation Types: Properties with basements, crawl spaces, or slab foundations are equally susceptible to radon intrusion. Radon gas can enter through any foundation type, as it seeps up through the soil and can find its way into gaps, cracks, or other entry points in the building’s structure.
Why New Homes Aren’t Immune to Radon
While older homes may have cracks or gaps due to age, newer homes aren’t exempt from radon. In fact, newer construction techniques sometimes make them more prone to trapping radon indoors. Here’s why:
- Energy Efficiency Sealing: Modern homes are often more airtight, which helps conserve energy but can also trap radon inside.
- Basement Living Spaces: Many newer homes incorporate finished basements, which are closer to the ground and increase the chance of radon exposure.
- Open-Plan Designs: Open designs with interconnected spaces can lead to radon from the basement circulating throughout the home.
What Radon Levels Are Unsafe?
Health Canada considers radon levels above 200 becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m³) unsafe. Any building—new or old—can reach or exceed this level, which is why radon testing is essential, regardless of the property’s age or location.
How to Test for Radon in All Property Types
Testing is the only way to know a property’s radon level. Here’s a look at some effective methods:
- Short-term Testing Kits: Ideal for an initial snapshot, these kits can detect radon levels over a few days.
- Long-term Testing Kits: Recommended for a more accurate average, long-term kits measure radon over three months or more, accounting for seasonal variations.
Professional radon testing services are available if you prefer more detailed readings and expert advice on remediation if necessary.
Radon Mitigation for New and Old Homes
If testing reveals high radon levels, mitigation measures can help reduce it to a safer level. Here are some common mitigation methods:
- Sub-slab Depressurization: A highly effective system where a vent pipe is installed beneath the foundation, drawing radon from below and releasing it outside before it enters the home.
- Improved Ventilation: Enhancing airflow with fans or other ventilation systems can help dilute radon indoors.
- Sealing Cracks and Openings: While not a standalone solution, sealing entry points helps minimize radon infiltration.
Conclusion
Radon is a silent risk that can affect any home, whether it’s new or old. Since the gas enters from the ground, all properties are susceptible, especially if they lack proper ventilation. Testing your home for radon and taking necessary mitigation steps if levels are high can help you create a safer living environment.
Contact Us Today
At IES Consulting Group, we offer comprehensive radon testing and mitigation solutions for homes and businesses throughout Windsor-Essex County and Chatham-Kent.
Whether your property is new or has been around for decades, we’re here to ensure it’s safe from radon exposure. Contact us today to schedule a test or visit our website to learn more about our environmental consulting services.
