Frequently asked questions.
Frequently asked questions.
Radon gas is a radioactive byproduct of uranium decay that exists naturally both inside and outside of man made structures. Certain properties of home construction can cause radon gas to concentrate to high levels inside homes. When you and your family are exposed to concentrated levels of radon gas over extended periods of time, your risk of developing cancer, specifically lung cancer, significantly increases. If you combine concentrated radon exposure with other known carcinogens such as smoking, you reach an even higher risk threshold.
Mitigation systems, such as the ones designed for radon removal, work by reducing indoor radon levels. These systems typically involve a combination of sealing cracks in the foundation, installing specialized ventilation systems, and using air purifiers or filters to capture and remove the harmful gas.
Mitigation systems, such as the ones designed for radon removal, work by reducing indoor radon levels. These systems typically involve a combination of sealing cracks in the foundation, installing specialized ventilation systems, and using air purifiers or filters to capture and remove the harmful gas.
There are several types of radon mitigation systems available for homeowners, each designed to address specific needs and situations. Our licensed technicians will evaluate each home and area to determine which mitigation is best for you. We know every home is different and all radon levels vary. We take the time to customize our systems to your needs.
Yes, radon mitigation systems can improve overall indoor air quality by reducing radon levels and mitigating dampness and mold issues. The process of active soil depressurization not only draws out radon gas but also helps to remove moisture from beneath your home. This can reduce the risk of mold growth and contribute to a healthier and more comfortable living environment.
The most widely accepted risk models present a linear correlation between radon exposure and risk. This means there is no level of exposure which is without risk, however, because the gas is found at very low concentrations in natural settings the risk is extremely low. Radon is only a concern when it concentrates to high levels inside of structures such as your home, where in extreme cases it may reach levels thousands of times higher than ambient levels outdoors.
Yes. Infants and children are particularly sensitive to radon due to differences in lung shape, body size and breathing rates children have higher radiation doses than do adults. Since lung cancer risk from radon exposure is based on cumulative levels, the longer you live in a household with high levels the higher your risk. Reference: Chen, J. Canadian Lung Cancer relative Risk from Radon Exposure for Short Periods in Childhood Compared to a Lifetime. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2013, 10, 1916-1926.
Generally speaking, basements have slightly higher radon levels than other parts of a home. Since radon diffuses quickly in the air and most homes in Ontario have centralized heating systems, radon levels are usually found to be similar on all levels of a home but may be marginally higher on the lowest levels. We typically see around a 30% reduction per floor (but not always!). For this reason we always recommend taking readings from your basement if you spend a significant amount of time there, which Health Canada defines as an average of 4 hours or more/per day.