Radon & Granite: What you really need to know and think about
There are Radon emissions on your TV set, fridge, and wristwatch….so should you quit using them? Of course not….levels are so low, that they don’t pose a risk for you or your family…Same with your granite countertops: Dr. L. L. Chyi, PhD in Geology from the University of Akron, OH, tested the most commonly used granites for countertops for radon and says: “The highest radon count on all samples tested accounted for only 7% of EPA´s recommended maximum level. The second highest to only 1%”. Granite countertops are perfectly safe.
This is what the Environmental Protection Agency has to say: “EPA has no reliable data to conclude that types of granite used in countertops are significantly increasing indoor radon levels.”
Still not sure? You should test for radon. EPA and the Surgeon General recommend testing all homes below the third floor for radon. Testing is inexpensive and easy - it should only take a few minutes of your time.
According to EPA, how does Radon get into your home? Mostly from cracks in solid floors, construction joints, cracks in walls, gaps in suspended floors, gaps around service pipes, cavities inside walls and from the water supply.
It is always good to know: You can easily fix a radon problem: Radon reduction systems work and they are not too costly. Some radon reduction systems can reduce radon levels in your home by up to 99%. Even very high levels can be reduced to acceptable levels.
Something to think about: So why all this fuss about radon and granite? Natural Stone has been used for centuries! In the past years it has increased its market share tremendously, and made some synthetic products manufacturers desperate. They started funding this malicious campaign, hoping to benefit from consumer fear!
Synthetic products have similar radon readings to granite. Same with ceramics, glass or steel! Should we quit using all?
Many cities in the world are surrounded by Granite Mountains, like Rio de Janeiro and Barcelona. Would you believe people who live there are in danger?
Remember that story on not using your cell phone or you would develop brain cancer? Rings a bell?
You can rest assured: Your granite countertops are perfectly safe! Because they are 100% NATURAL and have been used for thousands of years all over the world with no problems.
If you’re still worried or uncertain, just contact the Environmental Protection Agency, or ask any serious geologist, and get rid of all your fears. There is nothing more powerful than the truth!