Comments on: the scoop on radon

By: Orna

Orna — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 21:44:45 +0000

The main thing is to keep positive pressure in any area with leaks. I’ve got a dehumidifier in my basement that keeps air blowing. If I find out that my radon levels are high, it would make sense to set up a fan and measure how much that helped.

By: Serron

Serron — Sun, 24 Jan 2010 19:52:32 +0000

Thanks for the information. I’m not sure that I can afford to deal with the radon if the levels in my basement are high is there anything else that I can do that is less expensive? What would you suggest?

By: Orna

Orna — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 05:08:09 +0000

Great question, Gibran!

The technology for testing counter tops isn’t perfect, and usually any emissions are very low. But some granite definitely can emit radon, at levels people may find unacceptable.

Here’s a great New York Times article on the subject: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/24/garden/24granite.html.

And here’s what the US Environmental Protection Agency has to say: http://iaq.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/iaq.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=5103.

Still, most radon exposure is what seeps through cracks in basement foundations.

There’s no question that granite is beautiful, but mining practices are seldom green. If you’re planning (or just dreaming of) a kitchen upgrade, consider more sustainable options. Here’s a great resource list: http://greenhomeguide.com/know-how/article/choosing-kitchen-countertops-our-top-picks.

By: DoctorGibran

DoctorGibran — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 06:34:54 +0000

Thank you for researching and writing this article. Very informative and I am ordering my test kit today!

Is there radon emitted from granite counter tops?