Radon Testing

CB HOME INSPECTIONS

What is Radon?

Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from uranium in the ground that can get into your home undetected. You can’t see it, smell it or taste it.
All homes have some level of radon. The question is how much and the only way to know is to test.
In confined spaces like a house, radon can build up to high levels and over time become a health risk.
The current Canadian guideline for radon is 200 becquerels per cubic meter (200 Bq/m³).

Radon exposure is the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. 16% of lung cancers are estimated to be from radon exposure, resulting more than 3,000 lung cancer deaths in Canada each year.
Close to 10% of Canadian homes will have radon levels above the guideline, the only way to know is to test.

CB HOME INSPECTIONS

Radon can accumulate in various places, but it’s more likely to be found in homes that are:

Very well insulated.
Tightly sealed.
Located where the soil contains a lot of uranium, thorium, and radium.
About one in every 15 homes is thought to have high levels of radon, with the highest concentration typically found in basements or on the first floor. If you’re concerned about radon exposure, consider testing your home using either short-term or long-term radon tests.
The age of a home doesn’t significantly affect radon levels. Both older and newer homes can have high radon concentrations. Factors like soil permeability and pathways for radon entry play a more critical role. If you’re concerned, consider testing your home for radon.

Radon exposure poses significant health risks, primarily due to its radioactive properties. Here are the key risks:

Lung Cancer: Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. When inhaled, it decays and releases alpha particles that damage lung tissue. Long-term exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, especially for smokers.
Respiratory Issues: Even at lower levels, radon can cause respiratory problems, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Children, Pets and Radon: Children exposed to radon have a higher risk of developing lung cancer later in life due to longer exposure periods.
Mitigation: Fortunately, radon exposure can be reduced through proper ventilation and mitigation systems.

Schedule a Radon Testing

Here at CB Home Inspections we are certified for testing for radon.

Get your home tested for radon levels today and take necessary precautions if elevated levels are detected.

CB Home Inspections is a premier certified home inspection company in the Cape Breton area. We have been trusted by home owners, sellers, investors and banks to help them make informed buying or selling decisions.

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