The most recent conclusion from the epa is that quartz countertops pose little to no risk to healthwithin the average home due to radon emitting from the stone.
Does quartz countertops emit radon.
Homeowners with quartz countertops may or may not be aware of what radon is and how it can affect specific areas of a home but many new or older homes are often tested for it through a home inspector or individual home radon test kits to help alleviate the worries associated with it.
Testing the air in your home for radon.
Call 1 800 sos radon 767 7236 or purchase do it yourself home radon test kits at home store retail locations or online.
To reduce the risk of lung cancer from exposure to radon epa recommends testing all homes for radon regardless of whether the home contains granite countertops.
Quartz and granite contain varying amounts of uranium thorium and potassium which are naturally radioactive.
Given the radiation naturally encountered through flying.
The radon scare has been an on and off hot subject of contention for some time.
Turning to the hazard of being exposed to gamma radiation we know that uranium thorium and potassium in natural rocks emit gamma radiation.
Engineered stone a blend of crushed quartz glass and resins does not release radon because it is permanently sealed during the fabrication process.
A single study is not definitive of course but it does suggest that radon from quartz countertops is an insignificant hazard.
While natural rocks such as granite may emit radiation and radon gas the levels attributable to such sources are not typically high.
It can emit trace amounts of radon much like any other natural stone product used in replacement countertops tile or hardscape.
Turning to the hazard of being exposed to gamma radiation we know that uranium thorium and potassium in natural rocks emit gamma radiation.
No further studies are planned from the agency and consumers are advised to get their quartz countertops tested privately if they are still concerned about their safety.
What is usually called quartz and made into countertops is more properly called engineered stone.
Although quartz countertops will have less to zero radon it does not preclude granite as a less safe choice in kitchen countertops.
There are many do it yourself radon test kits available through retail outlets and on line starting at about 25.