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RADON GAS
Radon Gas Inspection Services
There are cracks in the foundation—nothing structural, but they exist. These nooks, crannies, and holes can allow an invisible threat to seep in. Colorless, odorless, and undetectable by the average human, radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. This ominous gas is created when uranium in the soil decays and seeps through any access point into a home. Common entry points include cracks in the foundation, poorly sealed pipes, drainage areas, or any loose points.
Understanding Radon Gas
Once inside the home, radon can accumulate in certain areas, especially basements and other low-lying, enclosed spaces, building up over time to dangerous levels. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a threshold of 4 pico curies per liter as the safe level for radon exposure. Prolonged exposure to radon can have significant and detrimental health effects.
How Widespread is the Problem?
Radon has been found in homes in all 50 states. Certain areas are more susceptible than others, but no location is immune. Homes built near historic mining operations may be at higher risk. The only way to know for sure is to have your home tested.
Testing for Radon
Testing for radon can be done in two ways: active and passive. Active devices continuously measure radon levels in a portion of the home and display the results. Passive devices collect samples over time and are then analyzed. Both methods can help determine your level of risk.
Do-it-yourself kits are available from various outlets, typically using passive devices. These kits are left in the lowest occupied level of the home for several days, excluding crawl spaces, and then analyzed by a professional. Alternatively, you can hire a qualified professional to conduct the tests properly. The EPA website provides information on finding appropriate resources and testing devices.
Mitigating Radon Risks
If high concentrations of radon are found in your home, there are several options for mitigation. Since radon is only a problem when concentrated, improving ventilation in the affected area is often sufficient. In some cases, it may be necessary to seal access points to limit radon entry. Engaging a professional is recommended to ensure effective radon blockage.
Typical radon mitigation systems can cost between $800 and $2,500, according to the EPA.
Radon Testing for Buyers and Sellers
If you’re buying or selling a home, radon can be a significant issue. Buyers should be aware of radon risks in their area and consider a radon test. The cost of the test can often be included in the house price. If test results already exist, ensure they are recent and that the home has not undergone significant renovations since the test was performed. If in doubt, it’s wise to conduct a new test.
For sellers, having a recent radon test is a proactive measure that can assure potential buyers of safety and avoid issues during negotiations.
Contact Us for Radon Gas Inspections
Whether you have an old home or a new one, live in an old mining town or in the middle of the Great Plains, radon is a reality. However, with proper testing and mitigation, radon can be managed as a health threat.
Contact Universal Inspect today to schedule your radon gas inspection and ensure your home is safe!
For more information, visit the EPA website on radon.
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James Huggie best inspector out there. In tune and ready to help you with all your inspection needs. I would highly recommend universal inspect to my friends and family. He did a complete and thorough inspection on the property that we were purchasing and we were very happy with the results. Thank you and remember to ask for James.
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