Radon Testing

Overland Park Radon offers comprehensive radon testing services aimed at measuring the radon concentration in homes and commercial buildings. Radon gas is an odorless and colorless gas that comes from the radioactive decay of uranium in the soil, water, or rocks. This gas can find its way into the air we breathe and pose various threats. Radon is a proven carcinogen. Although radon originates from the earth’s bedrocks and is ubiquitous in the atmosphere, high concentrations of this gas in an indoor environment has a lot of risks and downsides which is why radon testing is of utmost importance
 
What Are The Risks?
Radon is odorless which means no one can perceive a radon smell even when it is at a high concentration in the air. You also can’t see it or taste it in the air. The only way to detect if there is excess radon in the air is by using a radon test kit. The fact that radon can exist at dangerous levels like this in the air yet go unnoticed is one of the factors that makes it particularly dangerous. According to data by the American Lung Association, this gas is considered the second leading cause of lung cancer. The Environmental Protection Agency names radon as the leading cause of cancer in non-smokers. It is considered up to 5 times more dangerous than second-hand smoke. Hence, having elevated radon levels in your home puts you at a high risk of cancer.
 
Where Does Radon Come From?
Radon gas exists in many homes in the United States. According to the EPA, about 1 out of every 15 buildings in the US has elevated radon levels. Radon results from the natural breakdown of uranium in the soil, water, or rocks and can seep into your home through cracks in the walls and holes in the foundation. Radon can also get into your home through drains, sump pump openings, joints in the basement, pores in concrete flooring, wall water, and so on. Certain areas are more prone to radon contamination since radon exists at different concentrations in different areas.
 
The Radon Testing Process
Because of the dynamics and nature of radon gas, you are more likely to be exposed to the gas in your home, where most people spend most of their time. There are various methods of testing for radon but the most commonly used method is using a short-term test kit that uses charcoal canisters, alpha track, or Electret Ion Chamber. Other methods of radon testing include random in-water tests and long-term radon testing. You can also schedule a professional radon inspection where radon testing inspectors use a different testing method to check the radon concentration in your home. Radon tests are frequently carried during the process of selling or buying a home in real estate. The radon testing cost depends on the testing process used.
 
What To Do If a Radon Test Detects Excessive Radon Levels?
One of the biggest questions on the mind of a homeowner is what to do if their home fails a radon test. Fortunately, this is a problem that can be fixed and experts at Overland Park Radon can carry out proper radon mitigation services for your home to ensure a healthy living environment. Get in touch with us to schedule a radon inspection and testing to ascertain the radon level in your home.