The Hidden Danger – Why Every Home Needs Radon Testing

What Is Radon and Why Is It Dangerous?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It’s completely invisible, tasteless, and odorless, making it impossible to detect without specialized testing. When radon seeps up from the ground and becomes trapped inside homes, it can accumulate to dangerous levels.

The primary concern with radon exposure is its strong link to lung cancer. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for an estimated 21,000 deaths annually. The risk is even higher for smokers, as radon exposure combined with smoking greatly increases the likelihood of developing lung cancer.

How Does Radon Enter Homes?

Radon gas moves up through the soil and enters homes through cracks in foundations, construction joints, gaps around pipes, and even through the water supply in some cases. Homes with basements are particularly vulnerable because radon tends to accumulate in lower levels. However, even homes built on slabs or crawl spaces are not immune.

Radon levels can vary greatly between homes, even in the same neighborhood. Factors such as soil composition, home construction, and ventilation all play a role in how much radon builds up inside.

How to Test for Radon

The only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels is to test for it. There are two primary types of radon testing:

• Short-Term Tests: These tests measure radon levels for 2 to 7 days and provide a quick snapshot of radon concentration.

• Long-Term Tests: These tests measure radon levels over 90 days to a full year, giving a more accurate average of radon exposure.

The EPA recommends taking action if radon levels are at or above 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter). However, even levels between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L carry some risk, and many homeowners opt for mitigation at lower levels.

What to Do If Your Home Has High Radon Levels

If your home tests above the EPA’s action level, don’t panic—radon mitigation systems are highly effective at reducing indoor radon. A professionally installed radon mitigation system can bring levels down to safe limits, ensuring your home remains a healthy environment for you and your family.