Radon Exposure is a Serious Health Hazard
Radon is often called the silent killer due to its colorless and odorless nature. This radioactive gas is produced by uranium breaking down in the ground. This gas can build up indoors, posing a severe health risk.
Exposure to radon increases the likelihood of developing lung cancer; in fact, it is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. and the primary cause among non-smokers. Since radon can’t be detected by sight, smell, or taste, the only way to determine if it’s in your home is through radon testing.
What Homeowners Should Know About Radon Testing
1. Radon Is in Every State
Radon is present throughout the country, emerging from minerals found everywhere. For instance, Colorado is classified as a Zone 1 state, indicating that more than half of its buildings have radon levels above the recommended limit. Uranium decay in the ground causes radon, which enters homes through foundation cracks or other openings.
2. Radon Levels Vary Widely
Radon levels can differ significantly between homes, even in the same neighborhood. Every house needs to be tested to determine its radon concentration.
3. Testing Is Easy
Detecting radon in your home is simple with a test, which can identify if mitigation is needed to lower gas levels. Though D.I.Y. test kits are available, using a professional radon company can provide more accurate testing and effective monitoring.
4. Radon Testing is Recommended by the E.P.A. and the U.S. Surgeon General
The E.P.A. and the U.S. Surgeon General recommend testing homes for radon, particularly when buying or selling a property. Homes should also be tested after remodeling, as changes in airflow can affect radon levels. Experts suggest testing every two years since homes can settle and develop new cracks over time.
5. The Length of Radon Tests Will Vary
Radon tests range from short-term, which lasts 48 to 120 hours, to long-term, which can monitor conditions for up to a year. Long-term tests help identify fluctuations in radon levels due to weather or air pressure changes.
6. How Are Tests Conducted?
Homes must be closed for 12 hours for short-term tests while a charcoal kit absorbs air samples, which are then sent to a lab. Professional technicians may also use electronic devices to get quick on-site results, which are helpful for real estate scenarios. Longer tests use devices like alpha-track detectors to monitor radon over time.
7. Radon Testing Is Affordable
Testing for radon is relatively inexpensive. Depending on the duration, D.I.Y. test kits cost between $25 and $100. Hiring professionals provides accurate results and mitigation planning if required.
8. There are Recommended Levels for Indoor Radon
The E.P.A. warns that no radon level is genuinely safe. Reducing your home’s radon level to at least four pCi/L is recommended.
9. Mitigation Might be Necessary
If radon is present, a certified professional can design a mitigation system. Typically, this involves ventilating the radon out via fans and pipes, which can reduce radon levels by as much as 99%, according to the E.P.A.
10. Be Sure to Get a Professional Radon Test
Only some contractors are qualified to perform radon testing and mitigation. Look for professionals certified by the National Radon Proficiency Program (N.R.P.P.) or other recognized certifications. Some states also have licensing requirements for radon services.
Contact the Elite Radon Team for comprehensive testing, monitoring, and radon mitigation services to keep your home and family safe. Our team is ready to help keep your family and property safe from the harmful effects of radon gas. Our customized radon mitigation systems will work to keep radon gas levels in your property low.