SERVING WASHINGTON DC, MARYLAND AND VIRGINIA
Radon is a radioactive gas that is present in all homes but at different levels. Though it's naturally occurring, radon can be harmful to your health if present in high concentrations. We use the most comprehensive radon testing and reporting methods, and our experienced team of professionals will work with you to determine the best course of action to take if radon is found in your home. We understand the importance of peace of mind and are here to help you create a safe and healthy home for your family.
Certifications and Affiliations
About Radon
The US EPA reports that "radon is an odorless, colorless gas which forms when uranium or thorium in rocks breaks down." Because of the time we spend indoors, the highest exposure is typically found in any property where high concentrations have accumulated. The radon enters through low-level cracks and holes in the foundation, making it the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers!
1 - Visual Inspections
Inspecting the interior and exterior of your property helps us with a proper deployment plan. Often times we can find the radon entry points.
2 - Draft Deployment Plan
We will want to place monitors in specific places based on the radon entry points to compare the continuous monitor results with other locations from the property.
3 - Seal Windows
We use non-residual stickers that tell us if a window has been opened and therefore would require retesting. These stickers are easily removed by us after the test.
4 - Deploy Test
We set up the continuous, electronic radon monitors in specific locations per our deployment plan, sealed the windows, and closed the doors. The test will run for 48-96 hours.
5 - Verbal Test Results
When retrieving
the monitors
we will be able to
tell you immediately
your average
radon level.
6 - Final Test Report
About 24 hours after the test results, we will email the appropriate parties an official radon report including geological data and next steps if higher than recommended levels are found.
Frequently Asked Questions About Radon Testing
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What is the purpose of radon testing?The American Cancer Society says, “Getting your home tested for radon can help protect you and your family from a key cause of lung cancer.” According to the EPA, higher than recommended levels of radon gas accounts for approximately 21,000 deaths in America. Because radon is orderless, tasteless, and invisible, testing is the only way to know your indoor radon gas levels.
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Where is radon most commonly found?Because of the breakdown of uranium and radium in the soil, the lower levels of a property typically have higher levels of radon gas. The gas enters homes and buildings through cracks between floorboards, walls, or foundation pylons around pipes and wires which are usually found at or below ground level. Radon can also penetrate concrete slabs. Radon can also enter your home through your water. If your home is on a private well, you should also test the water for radon. However, radon from city water sources has largely dissipated before it reaches your home.
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What causes radon indoors?Radon testing is an important part of protecting yourself and your family from radon exposure. While home radon tests are available at a low cost, the CDC recommends hiring a professional radon testing specialist certified by the NRPP. A professional radon testing specialist will be able to properly test your home for radon and provide you with accurate, onsite results with a faster turnaround time. In addition, a professional radon testing specialist can help you understand the results of your radon test and what they mean for your health. If you are concerned about radon exposure, hiring a professional radon testing specialist is the best way to ensure that your home is safe.
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What is considered a normal radon levels at home?All homes have some level of radon. The nationwide average is around 1.3 pCi/L. The EPA recommends that any property with radon gas levels at or above 4.0 pCi/L have a mitigation system installed. However, The World Health Organization recommends a maximum threshold of 2.7 pCi/L. Radon is a radioactive gas that can be found in soil, water, and rocks. It is odorless and colorless, so it can only be detected through testing. Exposure to high levels of radon gas can cause lung cancer. There are a variety of ways to mitigate radon gas, including installing a radon venting system. Property owners should consult with a qualified professional to determine the best course of action for their situation. Taking action to reduce radon gas levels can help protect the health of occupants and improve the value of the property.