Living in NH, the possibility of elevated radon levels is a thing. This is the Granite State and granite contains uranium (in small amounts), which during decay, produces radon gas. Radon gas finds its way into indoor air mainly by migrating from bedrock, through the soil and into the home via cracks or other openings in the foundation.
Because of the widespread presence of granite bedrock, the state has high percentages of homes with elevated radon levels. The USGS says 55 percent of the state is more likely than not to have elevated radon in groundwater. (source)
Because of this concern, DHHS has a radon program and gives out free radon tests.
I haven’t really never thought too much about radon. When on a well, we would have our water tested occasionally. In my present home, the envelope is not very tight, so there has been a good exchange of air. However, as I've tightened things up, especially getting the old chimney sealed up and the two large windows blocked in last summer, along with the groundwater seepage up thru the basement floor, it is more of a concern. Although I still hadn't thought much about it, I ran into an ad for free radon testing. So I figured, "why not".
And, with winter being the time of year that it is most likely to build up, the timing was perfect.
I applied for a test kit and received it about 10 days ago. The test goes for at least 48 hours, so I started it last Saturday morning and ran the Monday morning. Then I packaged up the kit and sent it in, not expecting response for a couple of weeks.
This morning I opened my email, and the results were in. I am happy to report, that radon levels are below the window of concern. From the report:
Can't ask for much better than that.
The air-tightness of modern home construction is not always a plus. Happy that your hard work on your house hasn't caused you problems.
Posted by: Cop Car | February 22, 2024 at 12:20 AM