What is Radon Gas and Why Its Important

What is radon gas?

Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, naturally occuring radioactive gas, that is formed from the breakdown of the minerals uranium and radium. 

Why is it Important?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that each year 21,000 people die of lung cancer as a result of being exposed to elevated levels of radon. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer for smokers and the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers. Although radon is present throughout the environment, radon levels indoors are generally higher which increase the risk of cancer.

Why Is Radon A Common Problem In Minnesota Homes?

Much of the soil in the Upper Midwest contains widespread uranium and radium. These minerals continuously break down to release radon gas. Therefore, Minnesota's geology provides an ongoing supply of radon.

In addition, a large percentage of Minnesota homes have elevated levels of radon in the indoor air because of how they are built and how they operate in our climate. One important factor is that many Minnesota homes have basements that are used as living spaces.

The Minnesota Department of Health estimates that about one in three (1/3) Minnesota homes have enough radon to pose a significant risk to the occupants' health over many years of exposure.

Randy King, Progressive Home Services. Serving Greater Mankato, Owatonna, and South Central Minnesota Communities.

Get your home tested for radon today! Don't wait any longer! Give us a call now at 507-382-7007, or log on to our website at www.progressivehomeinspection.com to schedule your home inspection today!