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Radon in Maryland: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know

When you think about home safety, things like fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors probably come to mind. But there’s another invisible, odorless, and colorless threat that could be present in your Maryland home: Radon gas. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is a leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers.

radon meter with 4.7 picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L)

Here’s why every homeowner in Maryland should be aware of radon and consider professional testing:

  1. What is Radon? Radon is produced from the natural decay of uranium found in nearly all soils. It typically moves up through the ground and into the home through cracks in the foundation, gaps around pipes, sump pumps, or other openings. Once inside, it can accumulate to dangerous levels.
  2. The Health Risks: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that radon causes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States, making it the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. There are no immediate symptoms, making testing the only way to know if you’re at risk. Source: EPA – Radon Health Risks
  3. Radon in Maryland: Maryland’s geology means that many areas of the state are prone to elevated radon levels. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) actively educates residents about radon and recommends testing, especially in certain counties. You can often find state-specific radon maps or advisories on their website. Source: Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) – Radon Program
  4. Testing is the Only Way to Know: You can’t see, smell, or taste radon. The only way to detect its presence and determine its concentration is through professional testing. Precision Building Inspections offers reliable and accurate Radon Testing services using advanced monitors to get precise readings.
  5. What if High Levels are Found? If elevated radon levels are detected, don’t panic. Radon problems are fixable. Mitigation systems, installed by qualified professionals, can effectively reduce radon levels in your home by ventilating the gas from beneath the house to the outside. The National Radon Program Services (Kansas State University) provides extensive information on mitigation techniques. Source: National Radon Program Services – Radon Mitigation

Protect your family’s health and ensure your peace of mind. If you live in Maryland, consider scheduling a Radon Test with Precision Building Inspections today.

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