Frequently Asked Questions
Radon is a radioactive gas that forms naturally in the soil. When it accumulates indoors and is breathed in over time, it increases the risk of developing lung cancer.
Radon is produced during the natural decay of small amounts of uranium found in rock and soil. During past ice ages, glaciers ground up uranium-containing bedrock and distributed those particles across North America. As uranium continues to break down, it releases radon gas into the soil.
Radon is present at some level in every home — the key is determining how much. Because radon has no smell, colour, or taste, testing is the only way to know your exposure level. It exists in very small concentrations and would be impossible to detect without specialized equipment.
Homes typically have lower air pressure inside than the surrounding soil. This pressure difference draws soil gases, including radon, into the building. The gas can enter through small cracks in the foundation, gaps around pipes, floor drains, or other tiny openings
Radon levels can fluctuate for several reasons, with weather being the biggest factor. Levels often rise before and during rainstorms, as well as throughout the winter months. In contrast, calm days with high atmospheric pressure and little wind usually result in lower readings.
Radon concentrations also vary because radioactive decay is naturally random. Since radon breaks down over time in a process measured by “half-life” — the time it takes for half of a substance to decay — its levels can shift from day to day even without major environmental changes.
Radon testing is the process of measuring how much radon gas is present in your home. Because radon cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, specialized testing equipment is required to detect it. Testing is the only reliable way to determine your level of exposure and whether action is needed.
Health Canada recommends long-term testing of at least 91 days (3 months) to estimate the average annual radon level accurately. Shorter tests are not considered reliable for making mitigation decisions and should be confirmed with a long-term test.
If your test results show elevated radon levels, the next step is to contact a C-NRPP certified radon mitigation professional for an assessment and quote. A certified mitigator can evaluate your home and recommend the proper system to safely reduce your levels.
We are proudly C-NRPP certified and would be happy to provide a professional estimate and help you schedule mitigation at a time that works best for you.
