Radon is a carcinogenic gas that is hazardous to inhale. In the open air, the amount of radon gas is very small and does not pose a health risk.
However, in some confined spaces – like basements and crawlspaces– radon can accumulate to relatively high levels and become a health hazard. Build-up of radon in homes is a health concern, and many lung cancer cases each year are attributed to radon exposure. About 12% of lung cancer cases are blamed on radon, resulting in an annual death toll of more than 25,000 in North America.
Any home can have a radon problem, new or old. and potentially dangerous levels of radon have been detected in homes in all regions of Canada. The fact is, you and your family are most likely to get your greatest radiation exposure at home, where you spend the most time. In our experience, around 5% of homes in our region will have an elevated radon level. Testing is the only way to determine a home's radon levels.
Clarion Home Inspections recommends that all home purchases should include a radon detection test and we always make sure to inform our clients about the potential dangers of radon gas. We can provide customers with radon test test kits that they can use themselves after they have settled into their new home. For most people, the peace of mind they get from knowing their new home is safe is well worth the small amount of effort required. (Tests should be conducted for a minimum of 90 days and are best done during the heating season, when closed house conditions are easy to maintain.
You can learn more about radon gas by visiting the Health Canada website or by clicking here.
