The Importance of Radon Testing

We all know that radon is a cancer-causing agent that can be found in the environment. It is a well-known carcinogen that can be found in the air we breathe. It is commonly found indoors since it loves to sneak into cracks and spaces in any infrastructure. The potential health risks associated with radon exposure are not well-known and deserve attention because long-term exposure can cause lung cancer.

Why is Radon Testing Important?

• Health Risks: Radon exposure has been linked to lung cancer, especially among smokers. Even non-smokers who are exposed to high levels of radon can develop lung cancer.
• State and Local Regulations: Many states and municipalities in the U.S.A. (United States of America) have radon testing requirements for real estate transactions.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing the radon levels in your home can provide you with peace of mind and help you make informed decisions about your living environment.

As a responsible homeowner, it is important that you understand the potential dangers posed by radon exposure. Radon testing is a proven and cost-efficient way to identify and monitor radon levels in your home. There is no doubt that once you test your home, and radon is detected, you can mitigate and plan accordingly. Radon Mitigation is one of the many ways you can ensure your family’s safety and protect your property from potential damage. 

When Should You Test for Radon?

1. Before Purchasing a Home: Radon testing should be done before signing the purchase agreement. This will allow you to negotiate the price or even terminate the contract if radon levels are unacceptable.
2. When Renovating or Remodeling: Changes to your home, such as digging a basement or installing a new furnace, can affect radon levels.
3. Periodically: This is best! It's recommended to test for radon every two years, especially if you live in a radon-prone area.

Radon testing typically involves placing passive radon detectors in various areas of your home for a period of 48 hours. These detectors measure the amount of radon gas present in the air.

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the national average level of radioactivity found indoors is around 1.3 pCi/L, whereas the level found outside is approximately 0.4 pCi/L. It is suggested if the initial test finds levels above the accepted threshold, conduct a second long-term test to confirm the results. According to the EPA, long-term test results provide a more accurate picture of radon levels because they account for the effects of fluctuating temperatures and barometric pressure in and out of your home’s environment. 

How Do I Know if My Area Has High Radon Levels?

1. Check our radon zone map: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides radon zone maps for the United States. These maps divide the country into different zones based on the estimated average indoor radon levels. 
2. Consult local resources: Contact your local health department or building department. They can provide information about radon levels in your specific area and recommend testing resources.
3. Get a radon test: The most accurate way to determine if your home has high radon levels is to have it tested or seek certified radon pros. Radon testing kits are available at hardware stores and online retailers. You can also hire a certified radon tester to conduct the test. In addition to this, NRD local dealers provide free estimates to for your convenience.

If the short-term test findings are close to the 4 pCi/L mitigation threshold, the long-term test is advised. According to the state, a short-term test can be utilized to confirm an earlier test with extremely high radon levels.If the second results are comparable to the initial ones (4 pCi/L or above), mitigation should be considered. Additionally, the state recommends that those with high radon levels who also obtain their water from a private well test the water for radon. There are radon water testing kits available at your local radon mitigation dealers, online, and at most home improvement retailers.

What Should I Do if My Radon Levels Are High?

First, don't panic! We always have a ready solution for any radon level. There are effective radon mitigation systems available to reduce radon concentrations.

Radon Advice for Homeowners

• Research local radon regulations: Understand the specific requirements in your area.
• Include a radon testing contingency in your offer: This allows you to terminate the contract if radon levels are unacceptable.
• Consider radon mitigation costs: Factor in the potential cost of mitigation when making your offer.
• Ask your real estate agent about the radon situation if you are buying a new property. 

Also, there are two ways to test; an at-home DIY radon test or testing performed by licensed and certified Radon Technicians. You can always call your local National Radon Defense Dealer for the best assistance. Radon testing is easy and low-cost and has proven to save many lives.

Radon is controllable but cancer isn’t. The decision always starts with you.