This has turned out to be a myth; consumers can rest easy as the EPA has no substantial evidence of a health threat from granite countertops
Macomb, MI - Reports have been published about granite countertops emitting radioactivity. Some reports have said that even though most granite countertops tested were nothing to be worried about, some have had "hot-spots" that emit levels that can be life threatening. You may even read reports that claim some colors of granite pose more of a threat than others. Another report showed higher test results in exotic granite and recommends that anyone who is concerned should have their granite countertop tested. So, is there a danger of radiation exposure from granite countertops or is this myth?
During a recent series of interviews, Charlie Thiede, owner of Rock Tops Granite addressed the issue of radon and radiation exposure with granite countertops. He explained, "Radon is a radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless and tasteless. It is formed by the breakdown of uranium, a natural radioactive material found in soil, rock and groundwater. When radon escapes from the ground into the outdoor air, it is diluted to low concentrations and is not a concern; however, in an enclosed space it can accumulate to high levels and break down to form additional radioactive particles called progeny that can contaminate the air you breathe."
Charlie went on to say, "Knowing something about radon and its origin, it is understandable that consumers may be concerned about exposure from granite countertops. Granite countertops have been a very popular addition to homes since the 1990's. If any reputable studies showed that they were a serious health threat, then they would have either been outlawed by now or necessary steps would be taken to cure the problem."
Charlie made another good point during the interview. When asked why so many reports published he said, "Some of the reports that have been printed were later proven to be marketing scams by companies who sell synthetic products rather than natural stone. The hype and panic caused by this competitive marketing has proven to be more harmful than the threat they are claiming against granite being used in homes."
Charlie also provided some valuable information to put consumers at ease about granite countertops in their homes. He pulled up a web page from the EPA website that showed the following: According to the EPA, "There is radiation all around us and we need to be aware of the various sources--when to be concerned and how to protect ourselves from harmful exposure. Radiation has been part of the earth since its beginning. Construction materials such as concrete, cinder blocks, bricks, and granite contain small amounts of radioactive materials that are found naturally in the materials used to make them." These quotes were taken from the web page at http://www.epa.gov/radiation/sources/index.html#construction
Though there have been many reports to generate concern, studies have failed to produce evidence that granite countertops pose a significant health risk. The EPA believes that the main source of radon in homes is soil gas that is drawn indoors through a natural suction process. The EPA has no reliable data to conclude that countertops are increasing indoor radon levels.
So rest assured, your elegant granite countertops do not pose a health threat. Rock Tops Granite fabricates and professionally installs over 9,000 countertops per year. They have a 15,000 square foot showroom in Macomb, Michigan where people can take a tour to learn more about this natural stone product and how it is harvested, cut, polished and installed to form countertops and tile. Visit their website at http://www.rocktopsgranite.com to locate a showroom and learn more.
Contact:
Charlie Thiede
17411 23 Mile Road
Macomb, MI 48042
Phone: 586-263-6621
Toll Free: 1-877-ROCKTOP
This press release was submitted by Right Now Marketing Group, LLC
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