Radon Levels and Cleanspace in Jasper, IN

Know the Facts! Test Your Radon Knowledge!

 What is radon?

Radon is a cancer-causing radioactive gas. You cannot see, smell, or taste radon, but it may be a problem in your home. When you breathe air containing radon, you increase your risk of getting lung cancer. In fact, the Surgeon General has warned that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today. If you smoke and your home has high radon levels, your risk of lung cancer is especially high. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas and comes from the natural breakdown (radioactive decay) of uranium. Most soils contain varying amounts of uranium. It is usually found in igneous rock and soil, but in some cases, well water may also be a source of radon.

 Test Your Knowledge in this Radon Quiz!

True or False? Elevated radon levels have been discovered in virtually every state.

 True.  The EPA estimates that as many as 8 million homes throughout the country have elevated  levels of radon.

 True or False? Radon comes from building a home over old dump sites.

 False.  Radon seeps into homes from the surrounding soil through cracks and other openings in the foundation. Indoor radon has been judged to be the most serious environmental carcinogen to which the general public is exposed and which the EPA must address. Based on current exposure and risk estimates, radon exposure in single-family houses may be a causal factor in as many as 20,000 of the total lung cancer fatalities which occur each year. Radon decay can attach to the surface of aerosols, dusts, and smoke particles which may be inhaled, and become deeply lodged or trapped in the lungs. Once lodged, they can radiate and penetrate the cells of mucous membranes, bronchi, and other pulmonary tissues.

 True or False? Concrete, gypsum, and cement produce radon emissions.

                True.  However, radon emissions only increased while these items were hardening.  Levels returned to within acceptable limits once the concrete, gypsum, and cement hardened.

 True or False? Granite countertops emit high amounts of radon.

                False. While all soil and rock emit some level of radon, granite emits negligible amounts naturally and once the granite countertop is sealed, radon emissions are virtually eliminated. 

 True or False? Dirt Crawlspaces allow radon to enter your home.

True.  Exposed dirt underneath a home does allow radon present in the ground to permeate a home.

 What can you do to reduce your radon exposure?

43% of the homes in Jasper, IN have elevated radon levels.  Many of those homes have exposed dirt crawlspaces, which is definitely an unnecessary risk.  By using a crawlspace encapsulation system, you can reduce your home’s exposure to radon gas.  CleanSpace is one of the only multi-layer, engineered film systems that can actually help your family have better indoor air quality.  It’s not just radon—CleanSpace is also perfect for reducing the relative humidity, mold growth, allergens, and pest infestations. 

Cleanspace is guaranteed against ripping and tearing.  That way, once it’s installed, you can crawl across the liner, store boxes, and have service technicians down in your crawlspace without worrying that they will destroy your vapor barrier. 

Do you have concerns about mold, pests, radon gas, or other health concerns?  Contact one of our crawlspace experts today and we’d be happy to answer your questions!