**Reno Radon: Is Cheap Siding Crashing Summer Lungs?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert sun beats down on Reno, Nevada, baking the stucco and vinyl siding of countless homes. But what if that very siding, chosen for its affordability and ease of installation, is silently contributing to a hidden health hazard within those homes? It’s a question worth asking, especially when considering the insidious threat of radon gas.
Radon, an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas, is a known carcinogen and the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. It seeps into homes from the ground, but could certain siding materials, particularly those prevalent in Reno’s housing market, be making the problem worse, especially during the summer months when homes are sealed tight against the heat? Let’s dive into this potentially dangerous connection.
The link between siding and radon isn’t direct, but it’s about how siding affects a home’s ventilation and pressure. Many Reno homes, built during the rapid expansion of the late 20th century, feature vinyl or aluminum siding. These materials, while cost-effective, can create a tighter building envelope than older, more breathable materials like wood.
During Reno’s scorching summers, residents crank up their air conditioning. This creates negative pressure inside the home, essentially sucking air in from the outside. If the siding is tightly sealed, the path of least resistance for air infiltration becomes cracks in the foundation, gaps around pipes, and other entry points where radon can seep in from the soil.
Think of it like this: your house is a lung, and the air conditioner is a ventilator. If the “skin” of the lung (the siding) is too tight, the ventilator has to work harder to pull air in, potentially drawing in contaminated air from the deepest recesses (the soil).
So, what siding types are potentially problematic? Older, poorly installed vinyl siding can crack and warp, creating pathways for air infiltration. Aluminum siding, while durable, can also develop gaps over time, especially around windows and doors. Stucco, while generally considered a good barrier, can also crack, particularly in Reno’s seismic zone.
Identifying potentially problematic siding requires a keen eye. Look for:
- Cracks and gaps: Obvious signs of damage are red flags. Pay close attention to areas around windows, doors, and where the siding meets the foundation.
- Warping or buckling: This indicates that the siding isn’t properly sealed and could be allowing air infiltration.
- Poor installation: Gaps between siding panels or improperly sealed seams are common issues.
- Age: Older siding is more likely to be damaged and less effective at preventing air infiltration.
Now, let’s talk about testing. The EPA recommends that all homes be tested for radon. Fortunately, DIY radon testing kits are readily available at hardware stores and online retailers. These kits typically involve placing a collection device in your home for a specified period (usually 2-7 days) and then sending it to a lab for analysis.
For Reno residents, consider purchasing a kit specifically designed for short-term testing, as radon levels can fluctuate significantly depending on weather conditions. Follow the instructions carefully, and be sure to place the collection device in the lowest livable level of your home, as radon tends to accumulate in basements and crawl spaces.
If your DIY test reveals elevated radon levels (4 pCi/L or higher), it’s crucial to take action. Don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. The next step is to contact a qualified radon mitigation professional.
Mitigation strategies vary depending on the specific characteristics of your home, but the most common method is sub-slab depressurization. This involves installing a pipe through the foundation and using a fan to draw radon gas from beneath the slab and vent it safely outside.
Cost-effective mitigation strategies for Reno homeowners include:
- Sealing cracks and gaps: This is a relatively inexpensive DIY project that can help reduce radon infiltration. Use caulk or sealant to seal cracks in the foundation, around pipes, and in other potential entry points.
- Improving ventilation: Opening windows and doors can help dilute radon levels, but this isn’t a practical solution during Reno’s extreme weather. Consider installing a radon mitigation system.
- Consulting with a qualified professional: A radon mitigation professional can assess your home and recommend the most effective and affordable mitigation strategy.
A common mistake homeowners make is attempting to mitigate radon themselves without proper training or equipment. This can be dangerous and ineffective. Always hire a qualified professional for radon mitigation.
Another pitfall is neglecting to retest your home after mitigation. Retesting is essential to ensure that the mitigation system is working properly and that radon levels have been reduced to acceptable levels.
Reno, Nevada, offers several local resources for radon testing and remediation. The Nevada Radon Education Program provides information and resources on radon testing and mitigation. The Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health also offers information on radon and other environmental health hazards.
Furthermore, many local contractors in Reno specialize in radon mitigation. Be sure to choose a contractor who is licensed and certified by the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (AARST).
The connection between affordable siding materials and radon levels in Reno homes is a complex issue, but it’s one that deserves attention. By understanding the potential risks, identifying problematic siding, and taking proactive steps to test and mitigate radon, Reno homeowners can protect their health and create a safer living environment. Don’t let the desert sun blind you to this hidden danger. Take action today.