Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It seeps into homes through cracks in the foundation, walls, or floors.
What makes radon particularly insidious is that it is:
- Colorless
- Odorless
- Tasteless
You can’t detect it without proper testing, yet prolonged exposure to radon can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer.
The Health Risks of Radon Exposure
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Surgeon General, radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after smoking. In fact:
- Radon exposure is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year.
- If you’re a smoker and your home has high radon levels, your risk of developing lung cancer is significantly higher.
The danger of radon lies in its ability to damage lung tissue when inhaled over time. Unlike carbon monoxide poisoning, where symptoms manifest quickly, the effects of radon exposure develop gradually — making it a silent but deadly threat.
Why Homes in Long Island, Brooklyn, and Queens Are at Risk
New York State, including Long Island, Brooklyn, and Queens, is not immune to radon leakage. While radon levels can vary by region, certain geological conditions make our local areas prone to radon infiltration. Homes with:
- Basements or crawl spaces
- Cracks in foundations or walls
- Poor ventilation or airtight construction
are especially susceptible. Even newer homes built with energy-efficient designs may trap radon inside, allowing it to accumulate to dangerous levels.
Urban Myths About Radon
Many homeowners mistakenly believe radon is only a problem in rural or older homes. But radon doesn’t discriminate based on the age or style of your property. Even if you live in a densely populated urban area like Brooklyn or Queens, your home could have elevated radon levels.
How Does Radon Get Into Your Home?
Radon gas moves up through the soil and enters your home through:
- Foundation cracks
- Wall joints
- Sump pits
- Floor drains
- Gaps around pipes and wires
Once inside, radon becomes trapped and builds up, particularly in low-lying areas like basements. Over time, this gas infiltrates the entire home, making the air hazardous to breathe.
Real-Life Consequences: A Local Case Study
In a recent project, a homeowner in Long Island contacted Zavza Seal after learning their neighbor had dangerously high radon levels. Our team conducted a thorough inspection and discovered that several cracks in their basement foundation were allowing radon to leak inside.
The Results of Ignoring Radon
The homeowner’s radon levels were over 10 pCi/L — significantly higher than the EPA’s action level of 4 pCi/L. Had they not addressed the issue, they and their family could have faced severe health risks.
Key Takeaway: Radon is a widespread issue that many people unknowingly live with. Taking preventive action could save your life.
How Zavza Seal Helps Protect Your Home
At Zavza Seal, we don’t just seal cracks — we safeguard your home’s health. Our radon mitigation services focus on:
- Identifying Radon Entry Points: We perform a detailed inspection to locate potential pathways.
- Sealing Cracks and Gaps: Using advanced sealants, we block radon’s access.
- Improving Ventilation Systems: In some cases, we install systems to safely vent radon outside.
- Continuous Monitoring: We recommend regular radon testing to ensure your home remains safe.
Is Your Home Safe? Get a Radon Test Today
Radon testing is the only way to know if your home is safe. Don’t assume your home is free of radon just because you haven’t experienced symptoms. Early detection and mitigation can prevent long-term health consequences.
Schedule Your Radon Inspection with Zavza Seal
If you live in Long Island, Brooklyn, or Queens, contact Zavza Seal today to schedule a professional radon inspection. We’re committed to keeping your home safe, secure, and radon-free.
Protect Your Family’s Health — Don’t Let Radon Go Unchecked
Ignoring the risk of radon could be a costly mistake. Take action now to ensure the air you breathe at home is safe.
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- Buying a House with Foundation Problems and the Seller Won’t Pay?
- The Importance of Professional Foundation Repair and Waterproofing
- Do All Cracks Mean Foundation Problems?
- Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs: Cracked Foundation Repair
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