(EMAILWIRE.COM, November 15, 2008 ) Holly, MI – There are many reports and articles on the internet and in magazines that suggest concerns of granite countertops emitting radioactivity. Some reports say that certain colors of granite, or granite that is harvested in certain countries pose a greater risk of high levels of radon. Charlie Thiede, president of Rock Tops Granite was recently interviewed. Here is what he had to say when asked about radon and granite countertops:

Charlie said, “That is a very good question. People are more health conscious today than in generations past. They are most concerned with incurable diseases and cancer, so this concern makes perfect sense. Radon is a radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless and tasteless. It is formed by the breakdown of uranium, a natural radioactive material found in soil, rock and groundwater. When radon escapes from the ground into the outdoor air, it is diluted to low concentrations and is not a concern; however, in an enclosed space it can accumulate to high levels and break down to form additional radioactive particles that can contaminate the air you breathe.”

Charlie also explained how granite countertops became popular back in the 1990’s, so if they did pose a health threat, we would certainly be aware of it by now. When asked why so many reports had been published about the concern, Charlie explained, “Some of the reports that have been printed were later proven to be marketing scams by companies who sell synthetic products rather than natural stone. The hype and panic caused by this competitive marketing has proven to be more harmful than the threat they are claiming against granite being used in homes.”

Charlie handed out some information that he printed from the EPA website which showed the following: “There is radiation all around us and we need to be aware of the various sources--when to be concerned and how to protect ourselves from harmful exposure. Radiation has been part of the earth since its beginning. Construction materials such as concrete, cinder blocks, bricks, and granite contain small amounts of radioactive materials that are found naturally in the materials used to make them.” These quotes were taken from the web page at http://www.epa.gov/radiation/sources/index.html#construction

Though there have been many reports to generate concern, studies have failed to produce evidence that granite countertops pose a significant health risk. The EPA has no reliable data to conclude that countertops are increasing indoor radon levels. So it appears that your elegant granite countertops are safe from radon exposure.

Rock Tops Granite fabricates and professionally installs over 9,000 countertops per year. They have a 15,000 square foot showroom in Macomb, Michigan where people can take a tour to learn more about this natural stone product and how it is harvested, cut, polished and installed to form countertops and tile. Visit their website at http://www.rocktopsgranite.com to locate a showroom and learn more.

Contact:

Charlie Thiede
17411 23 Mile Road
Macomb, MI 48042
Phone: 586-263-6621
Toll Free: 1-877-ROCKTOP
info@rocktopsgranite.com


This press release was submitted by Right Now Marketing Group, LLC

Contact Information:
Rock Tops, Inc
Charlie Thiede
Tel: 586-263-6621
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