Radon Testing
What is Radon?
Inhaling radon can lead to lung cancer. Here are some facts.
Smokers
Non-smokers
Where it Comes From
Professional Radon Testing
Found in homes all over the United States, radon is colorless, odorless and tasteless. As radon gas breaks down, it releases radioactive particles that circulate in the air, which may lead to the development of lung cancer through prolonged inhalation. As the particles are inhaled, they can become trapped in your lungs and further breakdown releases bursts of radiation causing damage to lung tissue. The EPA has determined that short-term exposure to a high concentration of radon is not as severe of a risk as long-term exposure to a lower level.
Radon gas can only be detected by conducting professional and thorough tests. The BrickKicker’s inspectors are trained to find any traces of this harmful gas. Having an inspector check your home or property can help prevent becoming a victim of radon.
Frequently Asked Questions about Radon Testing
- Radon Tests are a minimum of 48 hours.
- 12 Hours prior to beginning the radon test all exterior doors/windows must be closed on all levels of the home. If this is NOT achieved, the test will be extended to a minimum of three (3) days.
- During testing all exterior windows and doors, on all levels, must be kept closed except for normal entry and exit.
- The radon monitor(s) cannot be moved, touched, covered or tampered with in any way.
- Dryers, range hoods, bathroom fans, and other mechanical systems that draw air out of the building may adversely affect test results. Operate these systems only when reasonably necessary.
- Heating and air conditioning should operate normally in AUTO mode between 67-77 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Ceiling fans, dehumidifiers and air filters within 20 feet of monitors should be off during testing.
- Fireplaces or wood stoves shall not be operated unless they are a primary heat source.
- Window unit air conditioners shall operate only in the recirculation mode.
- High volume, whole-house, and window fans should not be operated.
- Normal operation of energy recovery ventilators may continue during “Closed Building Conditions”.
- Permanently installed radon mitigation systems shall be functioning during the measurement interval.
Radon mitigation is any process used to reduce the concentration of radon in the breathing zones of occupied buildings. Mitigation of radon in the air is accomplished through ventilation, either collected below a concrete floor slab or membrane on the ground or by increasing the air changes per hour in the building.
The average cost to lower radon levels in a home is roughly $1200. They can range from $500 to $2500 all depending on the size and design of your home and which radon reduction method is needed.
A mitigation system varies depending on your homes’ design, size, foundation, construction materials and the local climate. Across the nation, the average cost is roughly $1200 with a range from $800 – $1500 depending on the house and market conditions.
There are both short and long-term testing devices that are generally inexpensive. A short-term test can remain in your home for up to 90 days. While a long-term test while last longer than 90 days. All radon tests should be taken for a minimum of 48 hours.