IMPORTANT CONSUMER NOTICE

Many consumers who are disturbed by the cost of professionally installed radon mitigation systems seek alternative methods of sealing their basements from radon entry. An internet search will yield many companies and products, some of which will claim to be cheaper and as effective or more effective in reducing the radon levels in your home. These companies and products have not been tested and proven as viable alternatives to fan based systems.

The EPA advises that sealants have not been proven to be a permanent solution for this problem.

Typically what occurs after using one of these products, is a temporary reduction in radon levels which gives the homeowner a sense of false security. Years later when the owner tests his home again (as recommended by the EPA) he finds that the radon concentration has returned to the level observed prior to the application of the sealant, and that the home's occupants had probably been exposed to this level for many years.

A fan based radon system is the most efficient, most affordable technology to date, for reducing indoor radon levels in your home. The EPA has published detailed standards and specifications for the installation of these systems, which the state of Maine has adopted and enforces. The individuals and firms who perform the installations of these systems have received training, passed an extensive written exam, and have registered with the State of Maine Radiation Control Program’s Radon Section as a Radon Service Provider. Additionally, the company advertising a radon service which is not registered with our department, is in violation of Maine’s Radon Registration Act.

One of the primary functions of our office is to inform the public of the major health risk of long-term exposure to elevated levels of radon in their indoor environment, and the need to reduce levels to minimize the risk of radon induced lung cancer. Our opinions are not biased toward one product or another other, but are formed by the review of empirical and scientific evidence of a product’s or a technology’s ability to permanently reduce radon levels.

EPA advises that sealants should only be used in conjunction with an active radon mitigation system.

If you are interested enough by any of these alternative radon reduction products or methods to the point that you are considering purchasing them, please call our Radon Section to discuss the effectiveness of the alternative method before spending your money. We would be pleased to discuss with you, your radon concerns and the best radon reduction strategy for your individual needs.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CALL THE RADIATION CONTROL PROGRAM AT:
207-287-5676