Radon in Granite Countertops

One common and potentially dangerous health risk inside buildings has recently been found in high levels in granite finishes. This popular counter top choice has become suspect as an emitter of radiation and high contents of radon gas inside the home. Recent radon testing has revealed that in addition to potential radon exposure though foundations or water, uranium in granite finishes is releasing radon as it breaks down after installation in the home. Recent test by home inspectors are revealing higher levels of radon in homes and some are several times above the normal level. With increased sales volume and variety, there have been more reports of “hot” or hazardous counter tops, particularly among the more exotic and striated varieties from Brazil and Namibia. With increased regularity in recent months, the Environmental Protection agency has been receiving calls from radon inspectors as well as concerned homeowners about granite counter tops with radiation. Although many radon levels in homes are coming back high, the EPA has not confirmed that all granite tops have high levels of radon. What the EPA is suggesting, is to have your home tested for radon and if levels test higher than 4 picocuries per liter of air than have your home fixed and eliminate your danger of radon gas.

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