What is Radon gas and why is it important to you, the homeowner? Taken from the TN.gov website, “Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in rocks and soils. Radon gas is tasteless, colorless and odorless. The only way to know if it is in your home is to test for it.” The geological landscape of Tennessee makes radon gas a common enough issue that we recommend testing before purchasing your home. Some homes even have radon mitigation systems installed.
Again, from the TN.gov website, “The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) considers radon to be a very serious problem in our state. No matter where you live in Tennessee, there is the potential for radon to enter your home. Radon gas has been identified as the second leading cause of lung cancer, second only to cigarette smoking. Radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year. About 2,900 of these deaths occur among people who have never smoked. As radon gas breaks down, it emits high-energy alpha particles. These particles are in the air we breathe, and once inhaled, they can be deposited in our lungs. The energy associated with these particles can alter cell DNA, thus increasing the risk of lung cancer. Persons who smoke and live in a home with elevated radon levels are at a very high risk to develop lung cancer.”
Do you have questions regarding radon in your area? There are several businesses that can help you, and if you are looking for a home in East Tennessee, let me help you through this process. I’ve been selling real estate here for over 20 years, and have the experience and knowledge to guide you.