Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas, which poses a silent threat to homeowners. Radon was first discovered in the year 1900 by the German chemist, Ernst Dorn. Radon forms naturally from uranium decay in soil, rock, and groundwater. It's a significant health risk, as inhaling it can lead to lung cancer. The hazard that this specific element posed to humans was not widely known until 1984. Radon was formerly known to be a hazard to coal miners and was linked to lung cancer as early as the mid 50s to 60s. Once news of its health risk reached the general public, more effort has been made to research and protect individuals from the hazards caused by Radon.

According to the EPA, "Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Overall, Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon is responsible for about 21,000 deaths every year." How can you and your family protect yourselves from Radon?

Test Your Home For Radon

There are two ways Radon can be tested within your home. One way is by testing using test strips or at-home tests specifically for Radon. While this is an option, it is not highly recommended as the accuracy can be very off. According to the NC Department of Health and Human Services, "it is highly recommended to hire a trained Radon measurement professional." Fireline Home Inspections is one such professional. We employ a high quality testing meter for Radon testing. This portable device provides precise results in just 48 hours, ensuring accurate assessments.

What if I Have High Levels?

If your home is found to have high levels of Radon, there is no need for alarm! While high levels are not good, high levels in an acute amount of time is not going to shorten your life. Radon is only hazardous if you are exposed to high levels for an extended period of time, spanning months and/or years!

However, if you do have high levels, it is recommended that a 90-day retest is taken on the property. This retest, if performed by Fireline Home Inspections will be FREE. Safety is most important to us, so we would want to ensure that there is indeed an elevated level of Radon and proceed to point you in the right direction. If the test does come back with elevated levels for a second time, it is time to hire a radon mitigation professional.

What is Radon Mitigation, and How do I Find a Professional?

A Radon mitigation system will involve the installation of vents and fans to bypass Radon gas from the livable space in your home to the outside air. The key benefit to reducing your levels of Radon through the mitigation system is the reduction of the risk of developing lung cancer. An added benefit is the system may very well reduce the humidity level of your crawlspace or basement, as the infiltration of moist air with Radon will accomplish such.

To locate a Radon mitigation professional, we recommend that you visit the website, https://www.radon.com/maps/

There you can search for reputable Radon mitigation companies in your local area to swiftly correct your issue.

In conclusion, it is always recommended that you add a Radon test to your home inspection. Further, it is recommended by the EPA to have your home tested for Radon every two years! Radon is a naturally-occurring radioactive gas that can originate from anywhere. It is also the second leading cause of lung cancer. With Fireline Home Inspections, we provide quick and easy testing so you can have the peace of mind and protection you deserve!