MEMPHIS, TN --(Marketwired - January 13, 2016) - Families across the country are at risk from a deadly gas in and around their home, yet most are not aware of the danger they face or how to protect their loved ones. This colorless, odorless gas is radon, and according to the Environmental Protection Agency, it is the number one cause of lung cancer among people who do not smoke, and the second-leading cause of lung cancer for people who do.
AmeriSpec , a leader in the home inspection industry and a ServiceMaster (
"The EPA reports that up to 21,000 people die each year as a result of radon poisoning, but sadly, radon exposure is not something we hear a lot about," says Gale Colvin, director of operations for AmeriSpec. "We want to help get the word out so that people can protect themselves."
Radon is a radioactive gas that is released into the air when uranium breaks down. Since uranium can be found in soil, well water and even building materials, radon can enter homes and buildings through:
- Cracks found in solid floors and/or walls
- Gaps in suspended floors
- Gaps around service pipes, wiring, HVAC ducting, etc.
- Holes and penetrations not properly sealed during the construction process
- The water supply
Colvin offers three strategies to reduce potential entry points for radon:
- Identify and seal cracks and other openings located within the foundation to limit the flow of radon
- Ventilate enclosed areas by opening windows, doors and vents to enhance the circulation of air flow
- Contact a qualified mitigation specialist to install a radon mitigation system
While radon test kits are available online and at local home improvement and hardware stores, Colvin encourages homeowners to schedule a professional inspection for the most thorough testing and advice on how to avoid problems in the future or address any issues that are identified.
Any home can have a radon problem. "We routinely get elevated readings on new homes, old homes and homes with basements, crawl spaces and even slab constructions," explains Colvin. "Whether you're looking to buy or sell a home, or you've been in your home for years, getting it tested for radon is important to keep your investment and its valuable inhabitants safe."
According to the EPA, radon levels of 4.0 pCi/L or less are considered to be within an acceptable range, although the agency also recommends addressing levels between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L. However, any reading higher than 4.0 pCi/L should be mitigated by a professional.
Radon is a serious health risk, but it can be reduced easily and cost‐effectively. For more information about radon testing or other professional inspection services with AmeriSpec, visit amerispec.com or call (877) 769-5217.
About AmeriSpec AmeriSpec has approximately 275 independently-owned and operated franchises and licensees located throughout the United States and Canada. The Memphis-based company has been in operation since 1987 and has performed more than 1.5 million quality home inspections. AmeriSpec is a business unit of ServiceMaster Global Holdings, Inc. (
About ServiceMaster ServiceMaster Global Holdings, Inc. (
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