Anderson Radon Testing

Anderson

Anderson Radon Testing

Radon is a gas that is invisible to the naked eye. It is emitted from the ground due to decaying uranium. If trapped within a home for an extended duration of time without treatment, it has been linked to lung cancer. Having a home inspector in Anderson, SC perform an inspection and test for radon can help you determine whether to pursue corrective action. A first time homeowner may not be familiar with radon, so we have answered some questions below about radon inspection and testing.

What Is Radon Testing?

Radon testing is done at the lowest level of the home to be closest to the ground underneath. There is three types of radon testing:

 

  • Short-term tests: These are useful to see if further testing is warranted. Most are activated charcoal-based or use electret ion methodology; both measure radon levels for two to seven days. You mail the tests to a lab for the results. Short-term tests are available at many major retail outlets where other home supplies and hardware are sold.
  • Long-term radon tests: These radon tests measure levels for 90 days to one year. Most, such as the AccuStar test, are based on alpha particle tracking. This is a more accurate indicator of average annual levels, which can vary significantly from day to day and month to month based on factors such as a drop in air pressure, gusty winds, variable soil moisture, and snow cover, which traps radon gases. Long-term radon tests are available through state radon agencies and online retailers.
  • Continuous radon tests: Electric monitors, such as the Safety Siren Pro Series digital meter, plug into a standard outlet. These can be used for both short-term and long-term testing to give you a running average every day.

How Do I Lower Radon Levels In My Home?

For starters, radon seeps into the home through improperly sealed areas such as window and door cracks. There are some easy home repairs that can be done such as the following:

  • Caulk cracks and unwanted openings with polyurethane caulk
  • Cover soil in crawl spaces with polyurethane sheets
  • Have a radon mitigation system installed

Who Performs A Radon Test?

There are some radon tests available in stores for self use, yet it is highly recommended to utilize a home inspector in Anderson, SC who specializes in radon testing. This allows for more accurate reporting, and advice on what the next course of action is recommended.

Call Now Button