Radon Testing
What is Radon?
Radon is an odorless, tasteless, and colorless gas formed by the radioactive breakdown of uranium in soil, rocks, and water. It can penetrate any building regardless of construction type, age, or location.Why is Radon Dangerous?
Radon gas decays into radioactive particles that can get trapped in your lungs. As these particles breakdown, they release small bursts of energy. The small bursts of energy can damage lung tissue and lead to lung cancer.U.S. Surgeon General Health Advisory - 2005
"Indoor radon gas is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and breathing it over prolonged periods can present a significant health risk to families all over the country. It's important to know that this threat is completely preventable. Radon can be detected with a simple test and fixed through well-established venting techniques."What Are the Tests For Radon
Testing for radon is a fairly simple process. The quickest test for radon is called short-term testing. Short-term test devices remain in your home from 2 - 90 days. There are two groups of devices most commonly used for short-term testing. The passive device group includes alpha track detectors, charcoal canisters, and charcoal liquid scintillation detectors. The active device group consists of different types of continuous monitors. The most common method used by home inspectors is the Charcoal Canister Test and it normally takes 2 - 3 days.What Does Testing Entail
A 411 Home Inspection Representative will place a Charcoal Canister in the lowest habitable area of the property. The canister must remain untouched for 2 - 4 days. After three days the 411 Inspection Services representative will return to pick up the canister. The canister will be sent to a licensed lab and after approximately a week you will receive the results in the mail.What Should I Do if the Radon Level is High?
The EPA recommends that you take action to reduce your home's indoor radon levels if the radon test result is 4 pCi/L or higher. A variety of methods can be used to reduce radon levels in homes. Sealing cracks and other openings in the foundation is the first step in reducing the radon level in your home. In most cases, a system with a vent pipe and fan is used to reduce household radon. These "sub-slab depressurization" systems help to prevent radon gas from entering the home from below the concrete floor. Radon mitigation contractors may also use other methods. The right system depends on the design of your home and other factors of which the contractor will inform you.Radon Testing is sub contracted to licensed third party vendors.
To learn more about Radon Testing,
contact 411 Inspections Services today at 201-530-1553.
