We like to think that our homes are our safe place. It seems nothing can get to us when we are behind those doors. Unfortunately there is one harmful thing that can enter your home without you knowing. Radon gas, which accounts for up to 70% of our radiation exposure, is odorless, tasteless and colorless. It is the natural by product of uranium decaying in the soil around your house. Radon is also the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, second only to smoking.

Radon Entry

In order to keep this threat out of your home, you first must understand how it enters. Let’s learn a bit about radon entry.  The main way that radon enters your home is through pores, cracks and other openings in the foundation. Radon is pulled into your home through a vacuum created by lower air pressure in your home than in the soil. It can enter through sumps, construction joints, drains, etc. and can pass through most surfaces that are in contact with the soil, including your concrete foundation.

It would seem logical that you could seal cracks and openings around construction joints or sumps and stop radon from ever entering your home. Radon is so small that we cannot see it, which means it can enter through cracks and pores so small, they can’t be seen either. Sealing and caulking can help but it is not usually enough to reduce radon to a safe level according to the EPA.

What can be done about high radon levels?

Don’t be discouraged if you have tested your home and found high radon levels. Radon levels are quickly and affordably reduced with a radon mitigation system. These mitigation systems consist of a series of pipes and a fan. They help pull the radon from the soil below the foundation and vent them outside above the house.

The first step is always testing your home. If you haven’t yet tested, simply fill out the form on this page. If your home has high radon, call Utah Radon Services at 801-871-0715 to request a free mitigation bid.