Radon infiltration

Source: Natural Resources Canada

Radon in the house

Radon is a colorless, odorless and tasteless radioactive gas produced by the natural decay of uranium that may contain rocks, sediments and water.

Radon escapes from the ground and diluted to harmless levels in the atmosphere, but it can accumulate in homes. High radon levels are associated with an increased risk of lung cancer. Radon can enter a home through openings in the walls and floor of the basement. Can reduce radon levels by sealing the entry points, by depressurizing the sediment surrounding the foundation or improving ventilation in the house.

The Did you know? All rocks and all sediments are naturally radioactive to varying degrees.

Radon levels vary greatly in the Ottawa-Gatineau region, mainly depending on the composition of rocks and soil. The only way to determine the exact concentration of radon in a home is to measure directly, but you can also use geological maps showing the concentrations of uranium in rocks and soil on the surface to estimate the potential accumulation of radon inside a house.