Radon FAQs
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil and rock breaks down. It has no smell, color, or taste, which means the only way to know it’s in your home is through testing.
Radon moves up from the ground and can enter homes through:
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Foundation cracks
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Basement floors and walls
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Crawlspaces
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Sump pits
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Gaps around pipes and utility penetrations
Once inside, it can build up to unsafe levels, especially in basements and lower living areas.
How does mitigation work?
Radon mitigation works by venting radon gas safely out of your home before it can build up indoors.
A small vent system uses a quiet, continuously running fan to draw radon from beneath the foundation and release it outside, where it quickly disperses. By lowering the air pressure under the home, radon is redirected away from living spaces, helping keep indoor air safer.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, these systems are highly effective and can significantly reduce radon levels in most homes.
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Best time to test and how often?
Radon can be tested any time of year, but levels are often highest in winter because homes are more tightly sealed and windows stay closed. That makes winter an ideal time to catch elevated levels.
How often to test:
The Environmental Protection Agency recommends testing:
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Every 2 years, even if past results were low
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After moving into a new home
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After major renovations (especially basement or foundation work)
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After installing a radon mitigation system (to confirm it’s working)
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Where is the best place to test?
The best place to test for radon is the lowest level of the home that is regularly used.
This is typically:
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A basement or finished lower level
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A first floor if there is no basement
Place the test:
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In a regularly used room (family room, bedroom, office)
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At least 20 inches off the floor
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Away from windows, doors, vents, and exterior walls
Avoid testing in:
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Kitchens
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Bathrooms
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Laundry rooms
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Closets or crawlspaces
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, testing at the lowest livable level provides the most accurate picture of radon exposure in the home.
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Why should you mitigate with Blackburn?
Blackburn has been protecting homes since 1992, bringing decades of experience and proven solutions to every project. Our radon mitigation systems are professionally designed, properly installed, and backed by warranties, giving you confidence that your system will continue working long after installation day.
When you choose Blackburn, you’re not just reducing radon — you’re partnering with a trusted local company that stands behind its work and is committed to the long-term health and safety of your home.
When should you be concerned?
You should be concerned if a radon test shows levels at or above 4.0 pCi/L.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 4.0 pCi/L is the recommended action level where steps should be taken to reduce radon. Long-term exposure at or above this level increases the risk of lung cancer.
Even levels between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L may still pose a health risk, and many homeowners choose to address radon at these levels for added peace of mind.
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