Thursday, August 8, 2013

Radon In Your Home



Radon can be found all over the U.S. Radon comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water and gets into the air you breathe. New Hampshire is a prime location due to the amount of granite in our state. It can find its way into any type of building — homes, offices, and schools — and result in a high indoor radon level. But your greatest exposure will be in your home, where you spend most of your time. Testing is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk from radon. EPA and the Surgeon General recommend testing all homes below the third floor for radon. Testing is inexpensive and easy — it should only take a few minutes of your time. Radon levels can be brought into safe ranges with a radon mitigation system. Some radon reduction systems can reduce radon levels in your home by up to 99%. Even very high levels can be reduced to acceptable levels. For more information on radon, testing and mitigation please click the link below.
                 http://www.insideoutnh.com/radon.html

Attic Ventilation 101




Attic ventilation relies on the principle that hot air rises and cold air falls. Soffit vents allow air intake into the attic space, and ridge, gable, and roof vents allow the hot air to escape. This creates a circular flow which helps prevent hot moist air from causing mold and rot. Proper ventilation also help reduce heating and cooling costs. There is an excellent video in the link below explaining the basic principles in attic venting.

http://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/blogs/dept/building-science/lstiburek-s-rules-venting-roofs