Whether you’re purchasing a new home or you’re concerned about your current one, it’s smart to order a radon test. Radon is a dangerous gas, and in order to keep your family healthy and safe, it’s important to know the levels of radon in the home.
What is Radon Gas?
Radon forms when naturally-occurring radioactive materials like uranium and thorium break down underground. Over time, radon seeps up through the soil and into your home through gaps and cracks in the foundation.
The Dangers of Radon in the Home
Radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, second only to cigarette smoking. It does not produce any immediate signs or symptoms, and often the only way you’ll know you’ve been exposed is with a diagnosis of cancer.
Radon is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Because our senses cannot detect it, it’s impossible to know if it is present in your home. It is especially dangerous to your family’s health because you won’t know if it is present in your living spaces and you cannot tell if you’ve been exposed.
Order a Professional Test
The only way to measure the levels of radon gas in the home is with a test. DIY tests are available at your local hardware store, but these are not recommended due to user error. Instead, hire a professional to perform in-house radon testing with superior equipment. He or she understands how to properly test for radon and will accurately interpret the results.
Levels of Radon in Your Home
If a test of your home shows levels of radon gas at 4.0 pCi/L or higher, you will need to talk to a professional about mitigation. A mitigation system will be designed for your home to help remove the gas and lower the levels in your living spaces. These systems use fans and ventilation to circulate the air and cycle radon out of your home.
Because of the potential risk radon poses to your family, it is critical that you schedule a test for your property. If you’re purchasing a new home, talk to your home inspector and ask about testing. It’s important to know if there are unsafe levels of this dangerous gas before you commit to a purchase.
DMV Professional Services offers inspections and radon testing to customers in the Washington DC metro area. Contact us to request our services.