Different Kinds of Radon Tests

Radon, a silent killer, is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. A radioactive gas, radon is formed by the decomposition of radium, a naturally occurring element found in all rock and soil. So whether or not a home has a radon problem depends upon how much radium is present in the soil that the structure is built upon. The only way to know if your home or office has elevated radon levels is by conducting a radon test - yourself and/or by professionals.

Where to first conduct a radon test?

The first place to test is the lowest lived-in level of the home - a family room in the basement.

How expensive is a radon test?

Radon testing is easy and affordable.

What are the different kinds of radon tests?

1. Short-term tests - available at home centers, hardware stores, and online retailers, these tests are useful to see if further testing is required.
2. Long-term tests - available through state radon agencies and online retailers, long-term radon tests tests measure levels for 90 days to one year. 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 Long-term radon tests are 
3. Continuous tests - Available from online retailers, electric monitors are plugged into a standard outlet to conduct these tests. These can be used for both short-term and long-term testing to give a running average every day.

How to conduct a radon test?

• Easy-to-use do-it-yourself radon test kits are available in the market. You just have to set the unit in place and leave it undisturbed for the amount of time mentioned. Then all you have to do is to send the device to a radon test lab for results.
• Professional radon test conducted by certified experts

Prospective homeowners & the Seasonality of radon

If you are looking to buy a property, make sure a radon test is performed prior to the purchase. Some homes will test higher in winter than summer. So, if you are buying a home in summer and find a low radon level reading, be sure to get a radon test done again in winter. The same house can have a much higher radon concentration in the winter season.

Hence, radon levels can vary depending on many factors like,

• drop in air pressure
• gusty winds
• variable soil moisture
• snow cover

Regular radon tests are the way to go. 

About Radon-Rid, LLC:

Radon-Rid, LLC is a fully insured, licensed, and certified radon testing and radon mitigation company. We are certified by the PA-DEP (Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection) to perform radon testing and radon remediation services in Bucks County, Montgomery County, Chester County and Delaware County. Call us at (610) 624-6928 or contact Radon Rid to schedule or book an appointment to test your home for radon gas.