Countertop

"What's lurking in your countertop?" - a NY times article is a good read for anyone planning to install or already have a granite countertop.

The article mentions that some exotic varieties of granite seems to be emitting radon (a radioactive gas known to cause lung cancer) at higher levels.

As a consumer one doesn't need to panic and immediately tear down the granite countertop. Instead you can try inspecting your granite by calling one of the certified technicians, American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (aarst.org).

If you plan to install granite countertops needless to say have the granite checked before the installation.

Information on certified technicians and do-it-yourself radon testing kits is available from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Web site at epa.gov/radon, as well as from state or regional indoor air environment offices, which can be found at epa.gov/iaq/whereyoulive.html. Kits test for radon, not radiation, and cost $20 to $30. They are sold at hardware stores and online. (Taken from the NY Times article)