Posted by: Karim Ali
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What Every Homeowner Should Know
Living in Kanata is great – it’s close to nature, has great schools, and offers a suburban feel with easy access to the city. But did you know that some areas, like Morgan’s Grant, have higher levels of radon gas? Radon is a natural gas that can build up in homes and pose health risks.
In this blog, I’ll explain what radon is, why it’s an issue in Kanata, how to test for it, and what you can do to fix it if your home has high levels.
1. What is Radon Gas?
Radon is a colourless, odourless gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in the soil. It’s completely natural, but in enclosed spaces like basements, it can build up to unsafe levels.
In Kanata, some neighbourhoods, especially those built on bedrock, have been found to have higher radon levels. Over time, breathing in radon can increase the risk of lung cancer. According to Health Canada, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
Why is Kanata at Risk?
Kanata’s soil contains natural uranium, which releases radon gas as it breaks down. Homes built on bedrock may have cracks or gaps where radon can enter, leading to higher indoor levels.
2. Testing for Radon in Your Home
Testing your home for radon is simple and affordable, and it’s the only way to know if your home has high levels.
Two Ways to Test:
- DIY Radon Test Kits – These are available online or at hardware stores. They usually need to be placed in the lowest living area of your home (like the basement) for 90 days.
- Professional Testing – Hiring a certified radon tester provides more accurate and faster results.
Where to Test:
Focus on areas where radon is most likely to accumulate, such as:
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Rooms that are frequently used on lower levels
Understanding the Results:
Radon is measured in becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m³). Health Canada recommends taking action if your radon level is above 200 Bq/m³.
3. Radon Mitigation Strategies
If your radon test results come back high, don’t panic. There are several ways to reduce radon levels in your home.
Common Radon Reduction Methods:
- Sub-slab Depressurization: This is the most effective method and involves installing a pipe and fan system to draw radon from beneath your home and vent it outside.
- Sealing Cracks: Closing foundation cracks and openings can help reduce radon entry but should be used alongside other methods.
- Improved Ventilation: Increasing airflow in your home can help dilute radon levels, especially in basements.
4. Long Term Radon Safety Tips
Reducing radon is not a one-time fix. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance are key to keeping your home safe.
Here’s what you can do:
- Retest your home every 2-3 years, especially after major renovations.
- Ensure your radon mitigation system is working properly with regular checks.
- Stay informed about radon levels in your neighbourhood.
That's All
Radon gas is a hidden but serious issue in some parts of Kanata, especially neighbourhoods like Morgan’s Grant. The good news? It’s easy to test for and there are reliable solutions to keep your home safe. Whether you choose a DIY test or hire a professional, it’s worth the effort to protect your health.
If you own a home in Kanata or are thinking of buying one, radon testing should be on your to-do list. It’s a small step that can make a big difference.
Bonus tips
1
Consider Radon-Resistant Construction
If you’re building a new custom home, ask your builder about radon-resistant features to prevent future problems.
2
Educate Your Neighbours
Sharing information about radon testing can help make the whole community safer.
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