Recent concerns have been raised in the media about the use of granite for kitchen countertops and the possible emission of radon and/or radiation. The Environmental Protection Agency has been receiving calls from radon inspectors, as well as concerned homeowners. The homebuyer must have a professional home inspection prior to signing the contract. This will determine the true condition of the home, thus reducing the risks of security and system issues that require short-term attention.
Granite is a very popular natural substance used for countertops and other areas of the home due to its durability and beauty. Any material that is mined from underground rock formations is a potential source of radon and can be checked by placing test containers near the counter and then sending them to a testing laboratory for evaluation. The granite type and colors that are most likely to emit higher levels of radon are the more exotic and expensive granites with red and brown veining.
The Environmental Protection Agency has been fielding calls from radon inspectors, as well as potential homeowners and buyers about granite countertops.
What is radon and what risk could it pose?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the soil and rocks of the earth. Specifically, when uranium in the Earth’s crust decays, it produces radium, which in turn produces radon. Radon levels tend to be highest in basements, since those areas are closest to the ground and rocks. This colorless, odorless gas seeps through porous soils and then becomes airborne. Outdoors, radon is usually not a big problem because it dissipates quickly.
The interior areas are more worrying. Radon gas can enter the home through gaps and cracks in the foundation and insulation. Around pipes, sumps, drains and walls. Granite countertops are also potential sources of radon. Mike Kitto, at nyradon.org, describes the type of granite and the colors that are most likely to emit higher levels of radon. In general, he says the more exotic and expensive granites with red and brown veins raise more concerns than the black, white and green types. Radon testing is accomplished by placing canisters near countertops and/or in the basement of the home.
The canisters are collected after a required time and sent to a laboratory for evaluation.