The Importance of Radon Testing

Most homebuyers understand that before purchasing a property, a thorough home inspection is an important part of the process. However, not all buyers consider the value of radon testing.

What is radon?

Radon is an odorless, invisible gas that forms through the natural, radioactive breakdown of uranium, thorium, and radium found in rocks, soil, and sometimes water beneath the ground. This gas can then leak into your home or office through small cracks in the foundation or even through a well-water supply that has been exposed to radon. You can’t see, smell, or taste radon, which means you can inhale it without even knowing. Radon is not limited to a specific part of the country and can affect any building type including homes, schools, offices, and other businesses. While the national average is 1 out of 15 homes, in the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area, 1 out of 3 homes test high for radon.

How is radon harmful?

According to the EPA, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer (behind smoking) in the United States, responsible for about 21,000 deaths each year. But without the proper testing, this toxic gas often goes unnoticed and undetected. In our minds, it’s always better to stay on the safe side and get radon testing.

What if my house has high radon levels?

If a radon test reveals high levels, you should ask for a walk-through with an EPA-licensed radon mitigation specialist. You can find one through your state radon office. Most will provide a free remediation estimate, and, if the work is done, guarantee that radon levels will be lowered.

How do I test?

Are you at risk? The only way to know is to test. At ProTec, we have a team of certified and dedicated technicians conducting radon tests daily. With our primary method of testing, test results are available the same day as the completed test. Tests are placed in the lowest living space of the home or building and must run for 48 hours in closed home conditions. As of October 1, 2016, Montgomery County, MD law requires that single-family homes must be tested for radon before completing a sale of the home. Call ProTec Inspection Services today to schedule a radon test for your home.