FAQs

What You Need To Know About Radon

Radon is a harmful gas that can have serious effects on your health. It occurs during the natural breakdown of uranium in water, rock, and soil, which releases the gas. It gets into the air you breathe and can be dangerous.

At Safe Shelter Environmental, we want all our customers to be well informed, so we’ve answered some common questions you receive. If you need radon services, including testing, mitigation, and remediation, turn to our highly trained professionals.

Is radon gas really that dangerous?

Because radon gas does not have a scent, color, or taste, it can be difficult to detect. However, inhaling too much of it can do serious damage to your health. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Surgeon General’s Office, radon is a known carcinogen linked to lung cancer. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer, second only to smoking. Statistics show that an average of 20,000 people are killed every year because of radon poisoning.

How does radon get in the house?

Radon gas is released when the uranium in soil, water, and rock breaks down in the foundation. It rises up through the ground and into the air. It enters your home through cracks and holes in the basement floor or foundation.

Should I get my home tested for radon?

The simple answer is yes! Because radon has no color, smell, or taste, it can be very difficult to detect. Yet, the EPA estimates one out of every 15 houses in the United States has high levels of radon gas. The only way to know for sure is to test your home.

What is considered a high radon level?

Radon is measured in picocuries per liter. Anything over 4.0 pCi/L is considered elevated levels of radon while anything 2.0 pCi/L and below is considered safe.

How can I fix my radon problem?

Radon issues can be dealt with either through mitigation or remediation. If you have lower levels of radon, you can take preventative measures by airing out your home and keeping it ventilated. With higher levels of radon, it is important you contact a professional.

At Safe Shelter Environmental we use advanced methods and cutting-edge technology to locate the source of the gas and remove it, so you can breathe easier knowing your home is safe.