Homeowners have a lot to stay on top of so that their family is safe, and their home is properly maintained. For many homeowners, radon testing is not on the list, nor have they heard of it. Radon is a radioactive gas that can pose a real threat to your loved ones after prolonged exposure. The Surgeon General has warned that Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today. It is in your best interest to invest in Radon gas testing now, and avoid the long-term consequences. Unfortunately, for most people, the largest potential source of Radon exposure is in their home. It comes from the soil and can make its way through concrete or holes/gaps in the walls and floors. When dealing with such a harmful element in your home, an expert should be called in for radon testing and inspection.
The American Cancer Society states that, “without the proper equipment or technical knowledge, you could actually increase your radon level or create other potential hazards and additional costs.” DIY (“do it yourself”) fanatics may try sealing the cracks to reduce radon levels but a radon mitigation company will know exactly what to do to make your home safe again. Radon gas testing will, first and foremost, determine the severity of Radon gas levels in your home. Once that has been measured, the company will explain what the process will be in reducing the dangers of Radon gas. Be sure that your chosen radon testing company have been certified by the state in which you live, and seek out their name on the state registered lists. It would also be advised to check reviews and see how long they have been in business.
The removal of the radioactive gas from the residence is called mitigation. Many homeowners who are not familiar with the process may be concerned about costs or that the testing and removal will be too expensive. Most radon mitigation companies say the whole process can range from about $800 – $2400 depending on the size of the home and location. If you compare this cost to having to deal with lung cancer later on in life, or seeing a loved one suffer, it is minimal and definitely well worth it. Some states recommend testing once a year while others recommend every 3-5 years. Ask the radon testing contractor was he/she would advise.
Most radon testing companies are a “one stop shop.” They provide the radon gas testing and mitigation. Radon services range from providing a vapor barrier in your crawl space, to sump pump installation, to a Radon mitigation system placed on the exterior of your home. There are a lot of options available if you find out that your home has high levels of Radon. You definitely don’t need to put up the “For Sale” sign quite yet! Talk to an expert before making any rash decisions or attempting to take care of the problem yourself. Radon is not something to be ignored or handled haphazardly because of the serious health risks it poses to you and your family.
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