What is Radon?

Radon gas is a naturally-occurring radioactive gas found in the soil that has no smell, color, or taste. As a gas, it rises up through the soil and escapes into the air. As it rises through the soil, the low pressure inside your home acts like a vacuum that draws the radon through cracks and other openings in your foundation.

Once inside, radon gets trapped and can build up to dangerous levels. People can be exposed to radon primarily from breathing radon inside buildings and homes.

Health Effects of Radon

Radon gas in the indoor air of America's homes poses a serious health risk. It can can cause a host of lung and respiratory problems over the long term. Radon breaks down into radioactive particles that can be inhaled and become trapped inside the lungs. As these particles break down further they can damage the lung tissue and alter the DNA of the cells. When a person is exposed to radon over many years, the exposure can increase the risk of lung cancer. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers in the USA, and the second leading cause overall. Due to the severity of this threat, the Surgeon General and EPA both recommend that every home undergo radon testing and mitigation (when applicable).


Surgeon General Health Advisory

"Indoor radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and breathing it over prolonged periods can present a significant health risk to families all over the country. It's important to know that this threat is completely preventable. Radon can be detected with a simple test and fixed through well established venting techniques."


Does Radon Mitigation Really Work?

In short, yes! Radon mitigation can reduce radon levels up to 99% effectiveness, using tried and tested techniques, ventilation and more to ensure a safe environment.


Is it Safe to Live in a House with Radon?

Radon is one of the main causes of lung cancer in the USA, as well as many other health problems, so in the long-term it is not safe to live in a house with radon. We recommend you get a test for your peace of mind, then call us if you need mitigation treatment.


EPA map of US areas at high risk of radon contamination in homes by state

Most of Montana is in Zone 1 which is at the highest risk for radon.

Read our Radon Facts, then call us at 406-862-5446!

Contact Big Mountain Insulators Today!