Radon Action Month: Tips for Your Home

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The month of January is reserved for Radon awareness. This dangerous radioactive gas is omitted from the underground and has no color or odor. If it sneaks its way into the home it can cause problems like lung cancer and even death. Exposure causes more than 20,000 deaths annually and is a leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers.

To check if it’s in the home, its presence must be detected by a professional or by using a DIY kit from a hardware store.

This month, take some time to help spread the word about the dangers of radon in homes and learn more about prevention so you can help save lives.

Here are some additional points to consider.

Different Testing Methods

Becoming well informed about the serious issue of radon gases in the home requires understanding the testing methods and their effectiveness. Here’s a rundown of the types of radon tests you could perform:

  • Short Term Radon Detection Testing

These tests can take anywhere from 2 to 4 days to offer results on the presence and level of radon gas in a home. They are typically sold as one-time-use kits and are available at a low price point.

These tests can vary in different seasons which is important to keep in mind if you think a retest would be necessary.

  • Long Term Radon Testing

As the name suggests, testing for radon using this method can take a much longer period of time. Up to 3 months or more as they are testing for day to day fluctuations and provide the most accurate look at year-round radon levels in the home.

  • Digital Radon Measuring

Thanks to the availability of new wireless technologies, there are now radon tests available for the home that can continuously monitor and measure for radon. The work by sending signals and readings on measurements throughout the day. Both long-term and short-term testing can be done using these systems and while the price tag is higher, the kits can last several years.

Radon Resistant Homes

Another option for those looking to purchase a new home is to find a green builder who has used radon-resistant methods in the construction. Steps including adding a vent pipe through the home’s conditioned space, sealing and caulking properly and using a vapor sheet as well as a layer or gravel below the foundation can all assist in keeping radon out of the home.

Find a Home Inspector You Can Trust

If you’re purchasing a home and need radon testing done, be sure to choose a skilled and experienced home inspector. Understanding safety issues and mandates from the EPA and state health departments is imperative. If a problem is detected, you’ll want someone who has partnerships with responsible organizations that can help.

Contact Accuracy Plus today!