Why Radon Should Also Be Measured Regularly Outside of Radon Protection Areas
When most people hear about radon testing, they think it’s only necessary in designated radon protection areas—regions known for having higher levels of radon. However, this assumption can be misleading and potentially dangerous.
At Peerless Air, we believe that radon testing should be a priority for all homeowners and businesses, regardless of whether they live in a recognized radon zone. Here’s why measuring radon regularly, even outside of these zones, is crucial for safeguarding your health and peace of mind.
Understanding Radon: A Silent Threat
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It’s odourless, colourless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without proper testing. When radon seeps into your home or workplace, typically through cracks in the foundation or gaps around pipes, it can accumulate to dangerous levels.
Prolonged exposure to high radon levels is a leading cause of lung cancer, second only to smoking. Since radon is so difficult to detect without professional testing, regular measurements are essential for identifying and addressing this invisible hazard.
Why Measure Radon Outside of Radon Protection Areas?
Radon Levels Can Be Unpredictable
Radon doesn’t follow predictable boundaries. Just because your home is outside a designated radon zone doesn’t mean you’re safe. Radon concentrations can vary from one neighbourhood to another—even from one house to another on the same street—due to differences in soil composition, building materials, and ventilation.
We’ve seen instances where homes outside of protection areas registered dangerously high radon levels. Regular testing is the only way to be certain your home is safe, regardless of your location.
Evolving Geological Conditions
Geological shifts over time can alter the concentration and movement of radon in certain areas. Factors such as construction, new developments, and natural changes in the soil can affect radon levels in unexpected ways. Areas previously deemed low-risk can become vulnerable as these conditions evolve.
Routine radon testing ensures that your home is continuously monitored for changes, giving you the confidence that your indoor environment remains healthy.
Older and Newer Homes Are Equally at Risk
There’s a common misconception that only older homes are susceptible to radon infiltration due to wear and structural aging. However, new builds can also trap radon because modern homes are often built to be more airtight for energy efficiency, which can inadvertently seal in harmful gases.
Regardless of your home’s age or design, regular radon measurements are necessary to ensure your living space remains safe and well-ventilated.
Lifestyle Changes and Renovations
Changes in your home, such as basement renovations, adding new extensions, or upgrading insulation, can inadvertently impact radon levels. Sealing off areas or modifying ventilation can change how radon flows through your home.
If you’ve recently made significant changes to your property, it’s important to recheck radon levels to ensure that these upgrades haven’t inadvertently increased your exposure risk.
Health Implications of Radon Exposure
The primary risk associated with radon exposure is lung cancer. According to health experts, even low levels of radon can pose a long-term health threat. Regular testing helps you address potential radon exposure before it becomes a problem, significantly reducing your family’s risk of developing serious health issues.
For businesses, ensuring that your workspace is radon-free is not just about compliance—it’s about protecting the health and safety of employees. Providing a safe indoor environment can also boost employee well-being and productivity.
The Importance of Long-Term Monitoring
Radon levels can fluctuate based on seasonal changes, weather conditions, and ventilation patterns. For example, radon levels tend to rise during the winter months when homes are sealed to keep in heat. Because of these fluctuations, it’s beneficial to perform long-term radon monitoring rather than relying solely on short-term tests.
At Peerless Air, we recommend conducting a long-term radon test that provides an average reading over several months, giving you a more accurate picture of your home’s radon levels year-round.
What to Do if Radon Levels Are High
If your radon test results reveal elevated levels, it’s essential to take action promptly. Our team at Peerless Air offers tailored mitigation solutions to reduce radon exposure. Here’s what you can expect from our process:
Detailed Inspection: We assess your home’s structure to identify the primary entry points for radon.
Customized Mitigation Plan: Based on our findings, we design a radon mitigation system that suits your home’s needs.
Installation of Mitigation Systems: This often includes the installation of a radon reduction system that redirects radon gas safely out of your home.
Follow-Up Testing: We conduct follow-up tests to ensure that the mitigation system is effectively keeping radon levels low.
Proactive Protection for Peace of Mind
Waiting until you experience symptoms or relying on your area’s radon classification can lead to unnecessary risks. By scheduling regular radon tests, you’re taking a proactive step toward creating a healthier environment for you, your family, and anyone who enters your home.
At Peerless Air, we’re committed to protecting Toronto residents from the hidden dangers of radon exposure. Our team provides professional testing, expert guidance, and proven mitigation solutions that help you breathe easy—both literally and figuratively.
Take the First Step Toward Safer Air
Whether you’re inside or outside of a radon protection area, regular radon testing is essential for your health and peace of mind. Contact Peerless Air today to schedule your radon test and learn more about our comprehensive mitigation services. Together, we can ensure your home or business remains a safe, comfortable place for everyone.