Effective Radon Mitigation Strategies & Radon Testing in Canada

The Science of Radon

Radon gas emanates from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water, infiltrating homes through cracks in floors, walls, and foundations. Without the right mitigation strategies, radon levels can accumulate to hazardous concentrations. Given its odourless, colourless, and tasteless nature, radon’s presence and concentration can only be determined through testing.

Radon Testing: The First Step Towards a Safer Home

Understanding Radon Testing

Radon testing is the first and most crucial step in assessing whether your home is at risk from radon exposure. Radon testing can be broadly categorized into short-term and long-term testing, each serving distinct purposes and offering unique insights into radon levels in your home.

Short-Term Radon Testing

Short-term tests offer a quicker way to gather a snapshot reading of the radon levels in your home. This method is particularly useful for initial assessments and situations requiring fast results (new home purchase or time-sensitive renovations).

Long-Term Radon Testing

For a more comprehensive understanding of your home’s radon levels, long-term testing is advised. These tests monitor radon levels for 90 days to one year, accounting for fluctuations across different seasons and conditions. Long-term testing provides a more representative average radon level, allowing for the formulation of a more effective mitigation plan.

The Testing Process

  • Initial Consultation: RadonCare begins with a thorough consultation to understand your home’s specific needs and to decide on the most appropriate testing method.
  • Test Placement: A home radon test should be strategically placed in the lowest livable area of your home, potentially your basement floor, where radon levels are likely to be highest. Tests should not be placed in the mechanical room, kitchens, or bathrooms or near regularly opened exterior windows or doors to ensure accuracy.
  • Analysis and Reporting: Testing completed with a digital monitor will begin to provide levels within 24 hours with long-term averages updating as the measurement progresses. If testing with a single-use alpha track test, the device must be mailed back to the manufacturer after which the device is analyzed and a comprehensive report is provided, detailing the radon levels and offering insights into the potential health risks and the necessity for mitigation actions, if required.

How Effective is Radon Mitigation in Reducing Radon Levels?

Key Mitigation Strategies

Sub-Slab Depressurization (SSD)

Radon Sump System

In homes with a sump pump or drain, a radon depressurization system can be created tying into the sump pit, provided adequate pressure and communication are achieved. This system captures radon gas from below the foundation and expels it outside.

Sealing Cracks and Openings

Sealing foundation cracks, openings around pipes, and other entry points can help reduce radon levels. While not a standalone solution, sealing can positively impact other mitigation strategies.

The Importance of Professional Intervention

Radon mitigation is a specialized field that requires knowledge, skill, and the right tools. DIY methods are not recommended due to the complexities involved in accurately detecting and effectively lowering radon levels. 

If you have taken on the task of radon testing yourself and your results have shown high radon levels, you should consider radon mitigation measures. 

Take Action for a Healthier Home: Contact RadonCare Today

FAQ

AT WHAT LEVEL SHOULD RADON BE MITIGATED?

Health Canada recommends corrective actions for buildings with radon levels over 200 Bq/m3 within 2 years. Buildings with radon levels over 600 Bq/m3 should be mitigated within 1 year. The higher the levels of radon, the sooner you should take action. 

WHERE DOES RADON COME FROM
DOES FINISHING A BASEMENT REDUCE RADON LEVELS

Ceiling fans can help circulate air within your home, but you will need to run the fan with your windows and doors open to have any effect on the air quality itself. Simply running a ceiling fan without a place for air to escape will not lower radon levels in your home.

DO CEILING FANS REDUCE RADON?

Ceiling fans can help circulate air within your home, but you will need to run the fan with your windows and doors open to have any effect on the air quality itself. Simply running a ceiling fan without a place for air to escape will not lower radon levels in your home.

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