A Guide to Protecting Your Home from Radon In Los Angeles
Understanding Radon and Its Presence in Los Angeles
Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that forms from the decay of uranium in soil and rock. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it undetectable without specialized radon testing. While radon levels are often associated with colder climates and basements, homes and buildings in Los Angeles, Thousand Oaks, and the surrounding areas are still at risk of radon exposure.
Southern California's diverse geological formations contain varying amounts of uranium, meaning radon gas can seep into homes through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, and other openings. Although the risk is generally lower in areas with well-ventilated structures, some properties still test above the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a lower action level of 2.7 pCi/L to further minimize health risks.
The Health Risks of Radon Exposure
Radon exposure is a serious health concern, as it is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States after smoking. When radon accumulates in indoor spaces, long-term exposure increases the likelihood of developing lung cancer, particularly for smokers. The risk is higher in homes with poor ventilation, as radon gas can concentrate in enclosed spaces.
According to the EPA, radon-induced lung cancer results in an estimated 21,000 deaths per year in the U.S. Because of its health implications, radon testing and implementing radon mitigation strategies when necessary is crucial for homeowners in Los Angeles and Thousand Oaks.
Radon Testing in Los Angeles and Thousand Oaks
The first step in radon mitigation is conducting a radon test. Radon levels can vary from house to house, so even if a neighbor’s home has low levels, yours could still be elevated. Testing options include:
Short-term radon tests: These tests, which take anywhere from 2 to 7 days, provide a quick snapshot of radon levels.
Long-term radon tests: Conducted over 90 days or more, these tests provide a more accurate average of radon concentrations.
Continuous radon monitors: Often used by professionals, these devices track fluctuations in radon levels over time.
Homeowners should test their properties, especially if they spend significant time indoors or are planning renovations that could affect ventilation and radon levels.
Radon Mitigation Techniques
If radon levels in your home exceed the EPA’s recommended threshold of 4.0 pCi/L or the WHO’s guideline of 2.7 pCi/L, radon mitigation is necessary. The most effective radon mitigation methods include:
Sub-slab Depressurization: This involves installing a vent pipe and fan system to pull radon from beneath the home and release it outside, preventing radon gas from entering living spaces.
Sub-membrane Depressurization: For homes with dirt crawl spaces, a heavy-duty plastic barrier is placed over the soil and connected to a venting system to channel radon away from indoor areas.
Protecting Your Home and Family from Radon Exposure
Radon mitigation is a proactive step toward safeguarding your family’s health. If you own a home in Los Angeles, Thousand Oaks, or nearby communities, consider conducting a radon test, particularly if you live in an area with rocky soil or a history of elevated radon levels.
While California does not require radon testing for real estate transactions, it is a good practice for home buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals to be aware of radon risks and take action when necessary.
Professional Radon Mitigation Services in Southern California
At MG Remediation, we specialize in radon mitigation services to help homeowners achieve safer indoor air quality. Our experienced team can assess your property, recommend the best radon mitigation strategy, and install a system tailored to your home’s unique structure.
If you’re concerned about radon levels in your home or business, contact MG Remediation at 510-293-3009 or submit a request here to schedule a radon consultation. Protect your loved ones by ensuring your indoor environment is safe from harmful radon exposure.