Did you know radon, an odorless, tasteless, radioactive gas, is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States?
Additionally, between 1990-2019, almost 30% of homes and buildings in Gwinnett tested positive for elevated rates of radon.
Radon can become trapped in a house whether it is new, old, has a basement, crawlspace or slab.
We want to help you become better aware of this important health issue and learn how to test for it in your home. Winter is the ideal time for accurate testing, as your doors and windows will be primarily closed.
What is Radon?
Radon comes from the breakdown of naturally-occurring radioactive elements (such as uranium and thorium) in soils and rocks. As part of the radioactive decay process, radon gas is produced. The gas moves up through the soil to the surface, where it can enter homes, schools and the workplace through cracks and other holes in the foundation. It can also enter the home through well water.
Uranium is often found in high concentrations in granite and rocky soils, which are common in Gwinnett and the surrounding area.
Radon can build up to dangerous levels inside homes, schools, and other buildings.
- Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after tobacco smoke.
- Radon kills nearly 21,000 people each year, more than 800 of them in Georgia.
- Smokers are at an even higher risk of radon-induced lung cancer than nonsmokers.
This Radon Fact Sheet provides helpful answers to frequently asked questions.
Testing Your Home for Radon
The easiest and most cost-effective way to test for radon in your home is with a simple test kit. A short-term radon test kit should be hung in the lowest lived-in part of your home (basement or first floor) for 3-7 days. Instructions for using the test will be shipped with the kit.
Upon submitting the test to the lab, you will receive results for the average radon level detected during the testing period. Your test result should come with instructions on the next steps you should take, if needed.
We frequently help homeowners with abatement of radon in the home, and would be happy to discuss solutions if your home tests positive for elevated levels. Contact us if you need help with radon abatement.
Get Your Home Radon Test Kit
Test your home and protect your health by visiting this website to order a $15 radon test kit.
