Retrospection of the Radon in Granite Controversy

The number of people who use the granite countertops in their houses is overwhelming. Durability and elegant look are the two qualities that attract more people to granite. However, some speculations and news published on the danger and health threats of granite has made some of the users worried. Such news can be found in some websites and a recently broadcasted Houston TV news program also highlighted this aspect.

The detractors of granite say that it contains the trace amounts of radioactive materials and gases like radon. This can be emitted by the granite countertops when they are placed in kitchen. However, the users of granite countertops should know some facts about radon before they think of replacing their granite countertops.

The experts agree that granite contains some amount of radon in it but its limit is not harmful for the humans. But they have given a clean chit to granite. It is a stone that has been used since the dawn of the human civilization. If you want to know how safe your granite countertop is from the health perspective be assured it would not damage your health. You can live in a house that has granite walls and floors without suffering from radioactive gas effects.

Mathematical calculations have shown that a typical granite countertop produces one atom or radon or less in a year. However, radon emanation is regulated by factors like rock porosity, exposure to water and air. The use of chemical sealant with granite countertops reduces the chances of radon emission. There are some researchers who believe that fresh airflow in the kitchen may help in reducing the radon emission by the granite countertops.

Granite types that contain excess amounts of pores and radon tend to be brittle in nature. It will not take polish easily too. A recent study conducted by University of Akron’s Environmental Geology and Geochemistry professor L. L. Chyi revealed the radon emanation caused by the popular variants of granite. The test was conducted on 13 variants like Absolute Black, India, Santa Cecilia, Brazil, New Venetian Gold, Brazil, Baltic Brown, Finland, Yellow Star, China, Tan Brown, India and some more types of granite. These variants make up 85 % of the total granite countertop market.

The test was conducted to estimate the quantity of radon emanation that each variant would add to a home with an area covering 2,000 square foot. It has been revealed by the test that none of the variants release significant amount of radon in the air. The EPA considers 4.0 pCi/L as the recommended danger level for radon emanation. None of the variants crossed 7% of that level in the test.

The test results leave no room for doubt that the granites used in USA are insignificant contributors as far as radon levels are concerned. The risk of radon emanation can be further controlled by application of sealant. Thus if you are using granite at your house rest assured that you have made the right choice. With the use of this natural stone you can for sure add to the décor of your house.