Radon testing belongs on the fall home checklist. As cooler weather arrives and families spend more time indoors, it is worth knowing the radon level in the places you use every day, especially a basement bedroom, office, or playroom.
Radon is a gas you cannot see or smell. A home can look perfectly fine and still have an elevated level. Testing is the only way to know.
Why test before winter?
Radon levels can change from day to day and season to season. That does not mean every home has its highest level in winter. It does mean an older test result may not tell the whole story today. If you have never tested, do not know your result, or have started using a lower level of your home more often, this is a good time to check.
What happens after a radon test?
You can use a home test kit or arrange professional radon testing. Follow the test instructions carefully. If a short-term result is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, the CDC recommends a follow-up test before deciding on next steps. A confirmed result at or above 4.0 pCi/L calls for a conversation with a qualified radon professional. Even a result between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L is worth discussing because reducing radon may still be beneficial.
If the level needs to be reduced, a radon mitigation system can help. The right approach depends on the home. Blackburn Foundation Repair can explain the testing results and discuss a plan without making you sort through the technical details alone.
Already tested your home?
Keep your result, but remember it is a snapshot, not a lifetime guarantee. If you have renovated, changed how you use your basement, or installed a radon system, it may be time to test again. Read more about when homeowners should retest for radon.
Start with a number, not a guess. If you are ready to check your home, talk with Blackburn about radon testing.
For more information on test results and follow-up steps, see the CDC’s radon testing guidance.