Cold Weather, Higher Risk: Understanding Radon in the Winter

Why Cold Weather Makes Radon Problems Worse, And What You Can Do About It

When temperatures drop, and we close up our homes for winter, many homeowners unknowingly create the perfect conditions for dangerously high radon levels. At Woodford Bros., Inc., we help Central New York families stay safe year-round, and winter is one of the most important times to pay attention to radon in your home. 

 

What is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas released from the soil. You can't see it, smell it, or taste it, but long-term exposure is the #1 cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Because it enters through cracks, gaps, and openings in the foundation, every home, old or new, can be at risk.

 

Why Radon Levels Rise in Winter 

Winter creates several unique conditions that can drive radon levels higher:

1) Homes are more sealed up - Cold weather means closed windows and doors. With less fresh air circulating, radon has nowhere to escape, causing it to accumulate indoors. 

2) The stack effect increases radon pull

Warm indoor air rises and escapes through the upper levels of the home. This creates negative pressure at the lowest levels, your basement, crawl space, or slab, which then pulls more radon from the soil into your living space.

3) Frozen ground forces radon toward the foundation 

When the ground is frozen, radon trapped under the surface often finds the path of least resistance: directly into your home through foundation cracks, sump pits, or gaps around utility lines. 

4) HVAC systems can contribute 

Furnaces, fireplaces, and exhaust fans vent air out of the home. Each time air is exhausted, the home pulls in replacement air from the soil, often carrying radon with it. 

 

 

Why Winter is the Best Time to Test for Radon 

Because radon levels are typically at their peak in the winter, testing now gives the most accurate picture of your home's year-round radon risk. 

A radon test is simple, affordable, and could reveal elevated levels you may not notice at other times of the year. 

 

Radon Mitigation Works, Even in Winter 

If your home tests high, don't worry. Woodford Brothers installs professional radon mitigation systems designed to keep your home safe in every season. 

 

 

Our radon mitigation systems: 

• Create constant suction beneath the foundation to prevent radon entry
• Use energy-efficient fans built for year-round operation
• They are customized for basements, crawl spaces, and slab-on-grade homes
• Include diagnostic testing to confirm effective radon reduction

Yes, mitigation systems can be installed even when it's cold outside. In fact, many homeowners choose winter installation because the problem is most noticeable this time of year. 

 

While radon has no smell or symptoms, you should consider testing if: 

• You've never had your home tested before
• You have a basement or crawl space
• You use a wood stove, fireplace, or gas furnace
• Your neighbors have high radon levels
• You've made home improvements that have changed ventilation or airflow

Protect Your Family This Winter with Woodford Brothers

Winter is the perfect time to take radon seriously. Testing is quick, mitigation is highly effective, and the peace of mind is priceless. 

If you're unsure where to start, we're here to help.

Contact Woodford Bros., Inc. today to schedule a radon test or request a free mitigation quote.