I think fights have actually broken out over the issue of Radon and Granite Countertops. There are a few things to consider.
Radon is a naturally occurring element that is the result of the breakdown of the element Radium, found commonly in granite. Radon is referred to as the second largest cause of lung disease in the US and the 6th largest cause of cancer related deaths overall. The EPA does not suggest that granite countertops are the primary cause of high Radon levels, but they can emit the gas.
Don't go out and redecorate your kitchen and bathrooms because you think your tops are going to give you lung cancer! However, there is a valid point to be made here.
As Radon is a naturally occurring element, and it primarily enters your home or office through the ground, proper ventilation is probably a good first step. Unfortunately, some 'green' building techniques and better insulation that are intended to provide more energy efficient homes and offices may inadvertently trap Radon gas. If the AC is running less and the insulation is has an extremely high R Value, then the naturally occurring Radon in your home or office (if you have high levels) may not be able to escape.
There are some interesting green solutions that proport to help reduce Radon levels in a building. CertainTeed Form-A-Drain is a product that uses 100% pre and post consumer recycled materials. This product is placed around the form before the slap is poured and acts as a foundation drainage system. It is also easyly adaptable to help reduce Radon in a structure. On top of all of that, this product can help earn a building valuable points toward becoming LEED certified.
It's important to consider the consequences of reduced air circulation in the green spaces where we spend lots of our time. Take the necessary steps to ensure safe construction of your green building. Here's how to test for Radon.
Reference:
EPA on Radon
CertainTeed Form-A-Drain
2008 University of Akron Radon Study - on granite tops
(There is a whole host of information available on the internet detailing both sides of the issue.)
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2 comments:
I never knew that Radon Gas was emitted from granite. This is one time that having a house that is really well insulated can be a bad thing.
This is an area that most people haven't researched. You're not alone, Frank.
Having a well insulated house is not necessarily a bad thing, but you should take action to find out if you have increased levels of Radon in your home.
There are several steps to take to increase the air quality in your home of you do have higher than normal levels. The point is to not have such a high efficiency system that you actually trap Radon or other VOCs.
db
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