The Invisible Threat Lurking Beneath Your Home: What Calgary Homeowners Should Know

Most people think of dangers like fires and floods when considering home safety. However, radon gas is a danger that many people in Canada may not be aware of. It is possible that this hazard could hide under your house. This is true, especially if you live in Calgary.

What Is Radon andWhy Should You Be Concerned?

Radon is invisible, without a smell or taste. You can only detect it with special testing. Radon can sometimes build up in homes, especially in the basement and foundation, to unsafe concentrations.

Health Canada has stated that radon causes more lung cancer cases than any other substance except smoking. It is estimated that radon is responsible for about 16% of lung cancer cases in the country. Because of this, radon is viewed as a health issue for Canadians, mainly in high radon regions.

Calgary is one such area. As per Calgary radon map, radon levels are often higher than recommended in many Calgary homes. The region’s particular soil and geology let radon gas to enter houses and buildings.

How Radon Enters Your Home?

Radon moves from the ground and travels through the air into houses through small cracks and open spaces around pipes. Once a home is well sealed and energy efficient, air pollutants are easier to trap inside. As this increases, it could eventually harm a person’s health.

Because newer homes are constructed more tightly, they might experience increased radon levels. This is because of less natural ventilation. Also, Calgary’s chilly climate leads people to spend more time indoors during the winter. Usually, this makes them more likely to be exposed.

Testing Your Home for Radon

Testing for it is the only way to determine whether your home has high radon levels. Testing for radon can be done easily and at a low cost, either with kits or through professional help. Health Canada suggests testing lasts at least 90 days to provide correct measurements.

It is important to test for radon in Calgary. This is important, considering the studies show that one out of five homes has radon concentrations above the safety standard of 200 Bq/m³. Radon levels in nearby houses may differ, making testing all homes essential. Should high concentrations be found, ways to mitigate the issue can be used.

Reducing Radon in Your Home

If the radon tests detect a higher level than normal, you should not panic – look for solutions. The following are solutions that can help reduce radon in your home.

• Install a radon mitigation system
• Seal cracks and openings
• Increase ventilation

Taking Action

Being aware and taking action are important to protecting your family from radon. If your home has a higher level of radon, contact trained professionals. Experts will advise you accordingly.

It’s also important to know that some steps can help you avoid radon exposure. By following the necessary steps, you won’t just protect your home. You will also keep your family safe.