Radon Testing
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the earth and is the second most cause for lung cancer after cigarettes. Radon can be present in air, water, and soil. The EPA is the government agency established guidelines for radon and has formed mitigation standards for homes that have elevated levels of 4.0 pCi/L or greater. The Portland and Vancouver metro area have pockets of elevated levels of radon coming from the soil and into homes from soil or small cracks in the slab. It is important to test for radon due to its cancer causing properties. Fortunately, radon mitigation companies can help divert the radon gas out of your home by installing a radon system.
How to test for Radon?
The EPA guidelines state the home must be under closed home conditions for 12 hours before the test starts. The radon testing device is placed in the lowest living area of the structure and the test will be minimum of 48 hours for the transaction of a home. It is important and required for “closed home” conditions to be in place for accurate testing for radon levels. “Closed home” conditions mean that all windows and doors are to remain shut, normal entry or exit is allowed, and air conditioning/heating systems should be set to recirculate mode. This will be in compliance with the EPA guidelines and provide the most accurate results.
We currently use the Radoneye Pro, which is tested and certified by AARST-NRPP and NRSB. The test results are sent to the customer with recommendations and/or if a radon mitigation contractor is required.
How often should I test for radon?
The EPA recommends that a home should be tested at least once for radon every two years. Testing regularly is important because radon levels can change from year to year. When completing major remodels on a home, finishing or adding a room to a basement, new foundation, excavations, etc. the home should also be tested. This is due to the guideline of testing for radon in the lowest inhabitable space. Continuous radon monitors are available online for home owners to purchase and install.
Radon Information and Resources
There is an abundance of research and information on radon, guidelines, and its negative health affects online. For more information on radon, we have provided several links below for quick access of general information. We recommend you talk to your physician about all health related issues you are experiencing, and for you to do your own research on radon. We do the testing and provide the results.
