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Radon testing

What is radon and why is it dangerous

  • Radon is a naturally occurring, invisible, odorless gas that comes from deposits of uranium in soil, rock and water.
  • It is harmlessly dispersed in outdoor air but, when trapped in buildings, can be harmful, especially at elevated levels.
  • Radon that’s trapped in buildings can be inhaled into the lungs, where it begins to undergo radioactive decay and damages the DNA. This damaged DNA can lead to lung cancer.

Testing for radon

  • Radon gas enters the same way air and other soil gases enter a home: through cracks in the foundation floor or walls, hollow-brick walls, and openings around floor drains, pipes and sump pumps.
  • Any home can have a radon problem, regardless of whether it is old or new, drafty or insulated, with or without a basement.
  • Air Chek, Inc. –  A manufacturer of short-term radon test kits. Minnesota residents receive a discount. Order online: Air Chek
  • RSSI – A manufacturer of long-term alpha-track radon kits. Order online: RSSI
  • Online laboratories and vendors – Search for ‘short term radon test kit’ or ‘long term radon test kit’

Dealing with a radon problem

  • Sealing cracks and other openings in the foundation is a basic part of most approaches to radon reduction. However, by itself, sealing has not been shown to lower radon levels significantly or consistently.
  • In most cases, venting systems with pipes and fans — called "sub-slab depressurization" — are used to more effectively reduce radon. Other methods may also be used, depending on your home’s design and specific situation.
  • We can provide a list of certified radon mitigators in your area.
  • Most homes can be fixed for roughly the same cost as other common home repairs – such as having the house painted or a new hot water heater installed.'
  • The average cost is about $1,800, but actual cost can range from $500 to $2,500, depending on your home’s construction and the strength of the radon source.

New home construction

Since 2009, all new homes are required to be built radon-resistant. Home builders must use material and techniques to help prevent radon from entering the home. This includes sealing radon entry points and installing a vent pipe, but it does not include a fan.