As the colder weather arrives and we spend more time indoors, November is the perfect time to think about the air quality inside our homes. One important factor that often goes unnoticed is radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can pose a serious health risk when it accumulates indoors.
November is recognized as Radon Action Month, making it an ideal opportunity to learn about radon, test your home, and take steps to protect your household.
What Is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas released from rock, soil, and water. It is colourless, odourless, and tasteless, which means you cannot see, smell, or detect it without specialized testing equipment.
Radon can enter homes through cracks and openings in foundations, floors, and walls. Once inside, it can become trapped and build up in indoor air over time. Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels increases the risk of developing serious health problems.
One important thing to remember is that any home can have elevated radon levels. Older homes, newly constructed houses, drafty properties, and well-insulated homes can all be affected. The age, style, and condition of your home do not guarantee that radon levels will be low.
The only way to know whether your home has elevated radon levels is to test for it.
Why Is November a Good Time to Test?
Health Canada recommends testing your home for radon over a period of three months during the heating season. This makes November an excellent time to get started.
During the colder months, windows and doors tend to remain closed, and homes are typically heated and occupied more consistently. These conditions make the heating season an appropriate time to measure radon levels in your home.
Radon test kits are relatively easy to use and can be purchased at many local hardware stores. Simply follow the instructions included with your kit to ensure accurate results.
Understanding the Two Types of Radon Test Kits
There are two main types of radon test kits available:
Short-term test kits: These measure radon levels over a period of 2 to 90 days. They can provide an indication of radon levels over a shorter period.
Long-term test kits: These measure radon levels for more than 90 days and provide a better indication of your home's average radon exposure throughout the year.
For the most representative understanding of your home's radon levels, Health Canada recommends a long-term test of at least three months during the heating season.
When Should You Test Your Home for Radon?
If you’ve never tested your home for radon, now is a good time to start. However, there are several other situations when testing is important. Consider testing your home:
If it’s never been tested or you don't know what the current radon levels are.
Before and after renovations that convert an unfinished basement into a living space.
After completing repairs or renovations intended to reduce radon levels.
When preparing to buy or sell a home.
What Do Your Radon Test Results Mean?
In Canada, the guideline for radon in indoor air is 200 Becquerels per cubic metre (200 Bq/m³).
If your test results show radon levels above this guideline, it is recommended that you take action to reduce the concentration in your home.
The best next step is to consult a certified radon mitigation professional. They can assess your home, explain the available options, and recommend an appropriate solution to reduce radon levels.
Simple Ways to Help Reduce Radon Levels
While professional mitigation may be necessary when radon levels are elevated, there are also some measures that can help improve indoor air quality and reduce radon concentrations.
Consider these steps:
Improve ventilation: Increase airflow by opening windows when weather permits and using fans and vents to help circulate indoor air.
Seal cracks and openings: Seal visible cracks in floors and walls, particularly in basement areas and around the foundation. Keep in mind that sealing alone may not be enough to address elevated radon levels.
Ask questions when buying a home: If you are purchasing a newly built home, ask whether radon-resistant construction features or other protective measures have been included.
For homes with radon levels above the Canadian guideline, professional assessment and mitigation are the most reliable ways to address the problem.
Make radon testing a part of your Regina home maintenance routine. For assistance, consider me a resource for a professional recommendation.
How can I best help you today?
Jason Cossette, Regina REALTOR® - Sutton Group Results Realty
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