Get matched with top radon detection and reduction specialists in Hill City, MN

Radon is the number one non-smoking cause of lung cancer in the United States, but it can cause some other concerning side effects in the meantime. If you have a raspy voice, chest pains, trouble breathing, difficulty swallowing, or any of the above, don’t hesitate to perform radon testing and install a mitigation system as soon as possible.

The soil beneath your house is most likely what’s causing an increased level of radon. This is because soil holds radioactivity for a long time and it’s also what most buildings are built on. Another common source of radon is water from a source that hasn’t been through periodic radon tests, such as well water. Over time, the radon from the soil can inhabit other parts of your house like the foundation or plumbing.

The natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water can cause radon to appear in a home. The gas seeps into homes through cracks in foundations, walls, or floors, as well as through gaps around pipes or construction joints. Radon levels are influenced by soil composition, building materials, and ventilation. Poorly sealed or airtight homes can trap radon, allowing it to accumulate.

Keeping radon from getting into your home is much better than having to get rid of it once it's already indoors. While there may not be a way to fully prevent radon from getting into your home, there are things you can do to reduce the gas's ability to enter. 

Sealing foundation cracks and openings can help keep the gas from seeping inside. Improving air flow, such as by opening windows, can also be helpful. If you're building your home from scratch, talk to your contractor about using radon-resistant construction to keep the gas out.