Everything you need to know about radon gas, its sources, health effects, and how to protect your family
Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive, colorless, and odorless gas that comes from the natural decay of uranium in soil and rock. It's invisible, tasteless, and you cannot detect it without special equipment.
Radon (Rn) is element 86 on the periodic table with an atomic number of 86. It's the heaviest noble gas and has several radioactive isotopes, the most significant being Radon-222.
Radon enters homes from natural sources in the soil and rock below
Uranium naturally occurring in soil and bedrock undergoes radioactive decay, producing radon gas as a byproduct.
Radon gas moves through soil and enters homes through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, and other openings.
Lower air pressure inside homes (compared to soil) creates a natural pressure gradient that draws radon indoors.
Cracks, gaps, sump pump openings, and porous foundation materials allow radon to accumulate in living spaces.
When radon decays, it produces radioactive particles that can damage lung tissue. Inhaling radon over time increases the risk of developing lung cancer.
What the EPA recommends for radon testing and mitigation
4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter)
The EPA recommends that you consider fixing your home if the radon level is 4.0 pCi/L or higher. Even levels below 4.0 can pose some risk.
pCi/L (picocuries per liter) is the standard unit for measuring radon concentration in air. One pCi/L represents radioactive decay events.
Quick assessment lasting 2-7 days. Faster results but may not capture seasonal variations. Good for real estate transactions.
Testing lasting 30-90 days provides more accurate annual average radon levels. Recommended for personal health decisions.
Real-time monitoring devices provide continuous radon level tracking with digital displays and data logging capabilities.
How radon is removed and controlled
Radon mitigation systems work by reducing the pressure difference between your home and the soil below. This prevents radon from being drawn into living spaces.
Radon potential depends on local geology and soil composition
Radon levels vary significantly depending on:
EPA Radon Zone Map: The EPA divides the country into three zones based on average radon potential. Even in Zone III (lowest potential), homes can have elevated radon levels. Testing is the only way to know your home's radon level.
No. Radon is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. You cannot see, smell, or taste radon. The only way to know if you have radon is through professional testing with specialized equipment.
Nearly all homes contain some radon, but concentrations vary greatly. About 1 in 3 homes test above the EPA action level. Testing determines if your home has elevated radon levels requiring mitigation.
Yes. Radon can affect any building with a foundation connected to the ground, including apartments, condos, schools, offices, and other structures. Lower-level units are typically most affected.
Professional radon testing typically costs $150-500 depending on testing type, property size, and complexity. Short-term tests are less expensive than long-term tests. Many professionals offer free estimates.
Radon mitigation systems typically cost $800-3,000 depending on home size, foundation type, and system complexity. Financing options are often available. Most systems have excellent longevity and require minimal maintenance.
A properly installed radon mitigation system can last 20+ years. Regular maintenance and periodic testing ensure continued effectiveness. Most systems require minimal upkeep beyond annual inspections.
Get professional radon testing and expert recommendations for your home. Contact us today for a free assessment.
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