Many homeowners are surprised to learn that one of the most serious health risks inside a house comes from something you cannot see, smell, or taste. Radon in the home is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil, rock, and groundwater breaks down. As this gas is released, it moves upward through the ground and seeps into homes through cracks in foundations, wall gaps, construction joints, sump pumps, or around pipes. Homes without basements are not immune, as radon could enter through crawl spaces and slab foundations. Because it’s completely invisible and odorless, homeowners often have no idea it’s there unless they test for it.
Understanding Radon
Radon in the home is so concerning because of its impact on long-term health. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for thousands of deaths each year. Unlike other risks in the home, radon exposure builds slowly over time, often without symptoms until it’s too late. Even moderate levels could be harmful when continuous exposure makes radon a unique hazard that requires immediate attention once discovered.
Testing for Radon in the Home
Testing is the only way to know if radon is present in your home. Short-term tests are inexpensive and easy to use, often taking just a few days to provide results. However, long-term tests are recommended for a more accurate picture because radon levels can fluctuate based on temperature, humidity, and even how you use your ventilation systems. Another reliable option is to hire a home inspector or indoor air quality specialist who specializes in radon testing and will provide detailed results. Regardless of your chosen method, testing should never be put off, especially if you’re buying or selling a home.
Addressing Radon in the Home
If high levels are found, radon mitigation is straightforward and effective. The most common method, sub-slab depressurization, uses a vent pipe and fan system to pull radon from beneath the foundation and release it safely outdoors. Depending on the design of your home, other systems may also be used, but all have the same goal: reducing radon levels to safe limits. Professional installation ensures that the system works properly; in most cases, homeowners notice results almost immediately. Addressing radon safeguards your family’s health and reassures future buyers that your property is safe.
Prevention and Peace of Mind
The best defense against radon is awareness and consistent monitoring. After installing a mitigation system, retesting is necessary to confirm that levels remain safe. Because radon is naturally occurring, levels will change over time, especially with home renovations, new cracks in the foundation, or shifts in the soil around your property. Making radon testing part of your routine home maintenance guarantees peace of mind for years to come.
Your home should be a place of comfort and safety. By understanding radon in the home and taking proactive steps to address it, you’re protecting your family’s health and your property investment.
Prudent Home Inspections offers inspection services in the Washington DC metro area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.