Most of us don’t spend much time thinking about the ground beneath our homes. But beneath your foundation, something invisible may be slowly making its way inside—radon gas.
This colorless, odorless, naturally occurring radioactive gas rises from the soil and can enter your home through even the tiniest gaps. And once inside, it can build up to dangerous levels without any visual or sensory warning.
Sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, right? But it’s very real—and very preventable.
Let’s take a relaxed but informative look at how radon sneaks into homes across Georgia, South Carolina, and beyond, and what you can do to keep it from becoming a long-term problem.
The Science-y Part (But Not Too Much)
Radon forms when uranium in soil, rock, or water breaks down. This radioactive decay releases radon gas, which rises up toward the surface.
Because it’s a gas, it follows the path of least resistance—up through the soil, and into homes through:
- Cracks in concrete slabs
- Gaps in basement walls
- Crawlspaces
- Sump pump pits
- Utility pipe entry points
- Floor drains
- Construction joints
What’s wild is that even the most modern, energy-efficient homes aren’t immune. In fact, airtight homes can trap radon more easily because there’s less ventilation.
What Increases Your Risk?
Not every home has a radon problem—but every home has the potential for one.
Your risk goes up if:
- Your home has a basement or crawlspace
- You live in a region with high uranium levels (hello, Southeast)
- Your home was built tightly for energy efficiency
- You have poor ventilation, especially in lower levels
- Nearby homes have tested high for radon
How Does Radon Move Through Your Home?
Once radon enters, it tends to collect in the lowest part of the home—often the basement or crawlspace. Because it’s heavier than air, it doesn’t rise quickly on its own. Instead, it slowly accumulates, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces.
From there, your HVAC system can carry it into upper levels without you even realizing it.
Over time, breathing radon at high levels increases your risk of developing lung cancer, especially if you’re exposed regularly for years. In fact, it’s the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., behind smoking.
But don’t panic—we’re not here to scare you. We’re here to help you understand where it comes from, and how to deal with it.
Common Entry Points to Watch Out For
Let’s break down some specific areas where radon might be making its grand entrance:
Foundation Cracks: Even hairline fractures can allow radon in. It doesn’t need a gaping hole—just a path.
Sump Pumps & Drains: If not properly sealed, these openings act like funnels for soil gases.
Crawlspaces: Exposed soil under your home is like an open invitation. Unsealed or poorly ventilated crawlspaces are radon hotspots.
Gaps Around Pipes & Wires: Think about where your water lines, gas lines, or electrical conduits enter your home. These spots often have small gaps that let radon in.
Construction Joints: Anywhere building materials meet—walls to floor, foundation to slab—can leave invisible spaces.
You Can’t Block It—But You Can Measure It
The thing about radon is that you can’t keep it from forming. It’s a natural part of the environment. But you can manage it—starting with a simple, professional test.
At EnviroPro 360, we offer local radon testing services designed to give you fast, accurate, certified results. Whether you’re concerned about your current home or in the process of buying a new one, we make it easy to get clear answers.
Testing takes just a few days and can help you decide whether mitigation is needed—or if your home’s levels are perfectly safe.
Radon Doesn’t Need a Door—Just a Crack
Radon is quiet, invisible, and patient. It doesn’t rush in—but over time, it can build up to levels that affect your health and your home’s value. The good news? It’s totally manageable.
The key is knowing it’s there.
Ready to find out if radon is entering your home?
EnviroPro 360 offers certified local radon testing throughout Georgia and South Carolina. Our friendly experts take the guesswork out of radon so you can focus on what matters: peace of mind, fresh air, and a healthier home.
