What is RADON?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes up out of the ground. It is looking for the easiest way into the atmosphere. If it enters the basement or first floor living area, it tends to pool or collect there, as we weather-strip our windows and doors, and insulate our attic to keep in heating dollars. This also keeps in indoor air pollution, and radon is considered one of those indoor air pollutants. The EPA, and most in the medical community, do feel radon can be a health hazard. Like smoking, it can cause scarring of the lungs. The EPA has recommended the level be between zero and four (0-4) PicoCuries per Liter of air. Between 4 and 20 is the second level, 20-200 is the third and over 200 the fourth level.

Radon is a breakdown process of uranium, which is found in granite, and everyone knows what all of New England is made of...Granite. This is why you hear so much about radon in New England. As this is usually an easily remedied condition, it is our opinion that an above acceptable level of radon should not keep anyone from buying the home they love. There are remediation companies that will come in and determine where the radon is coming in, as well as determine the best way of remediation.

Because there have been Bills in front of the Massachusetts Legislature to have this test mandatory at the sale of a house, we recommend testing now if purchasing a home. Most people feel they want to know if the home does have radon so they can assess their risks. Smokers are at greater risk than nonsmokers, as are children that may play in a basement, etc. Usual testing is done in the basement or lowest living level of the home. EPA protocol is for a canister in the basement as well as the first floor, but considers the testing is being done by the home owner. We find that a single canister is fine, as it lets you know whether or not radon is getting in the house. At the time of a home inspection, that is usually sufficient. An elevated level will usually necessitate further testing. EPA protocol also calls for windows and doors to be closed 12 hours before the canister is placed, as well as the 48 hours the canister is open. This allows for a standard testing procedure.

This is a very brief review of a very extensive subject. There are many good booklets available and we would be very happy to mail or deliver one to you. For more information, please write or call Mary LaVergne, co-owner of CraMar, Inc. Home Inspectors, P.O. Box 1014, Webster, MA 01570, 508-949-1014 or 800-421-1014.