Radon Mitigation in Ontario

Mar 28, 2016

Did you know that radon exposure is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in Canada, behind only smoking? Radon is an odourless, colourless gas caused by the natural breakdown of uranium in the ground. Radon seeps into our homes through tiny cracks and holes and builds up to dangerous levels if not mitigated.

Approximately 7-10% of Canadian homes are above-recommended radon levels. An estimated 2,000 Canadians die every year due to radon exposure. Thankfully, there is a way to reduce radon in our homes: radon mitigation.

First off, what is radon?

Radon is a group 8 noble gas that is present in the air and has no colour or odour. It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in rocks and soil. It also happens to be the only gas that has radioactive isotopes and it is this very nature of the gas that makes it a health hazard. Radon is radiation, and there are no safe levels of radiation!

How does radon get into my home?

Radon is a gas, so it can seep into your home through cracks and openings, floor drains, open sumps, joints, voids, exposed soil, and more. The gas can build up to dangerous levels in your home if these cracks are not sealed off.

How can I reduce radon in my home?

Depending on the radon concentration in your home and the source of radon exposure, the following radon reduction methods may be effective:

  • Seal cracks. Radon can be reduced or mitigated by sealing major entry routes like wall and floor cracks. Give The Crack Doctor a call and we’ll seal off the major entry routes in your home. It is best to call a professional for this, as you do not want to risk something as dangerous as radon exposure to DIY.
  • Install/improve HRV and ERV systems. Increased ventilation may be helpful in reducing radon in some homes (most effective in airtight homes with low natural ventilation rates). Consider investing in a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) or energy-recovery ventilator (ERV) system.
  • Active soil depressurization. If your home has a large radon problem, this is a very effective method and can reduce radon concentrations by 90%. A pipe and fan system is installed on the foundation floor. The pipe draws radon up and vents it outside, preventing it from building up in the home.

Your health is too important to risk. Don’t sit idly by – protect your home with the crack repair or one of the other recommended methods listed above. Contact The Crack Doctor to learn more!

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