Common Radon Situations and How to Handle Them Correctly

Radon Mitigation

Radon is a colorless, tasteless, and odorless radioactive gas that, if left to accumulate in indoor air, can pose significant health risks. As the second leading cause of lung cancer, it’s important to know how to handle radon correctly to prevent exposure.

Let’s look at some common radon situations and the right steps to take.

Key Takeaways:

Table of Contents

Contact Eco Shield Restorations for Effective Radon Mitigation in Idaho Falls

Radon: The Overview

Radon forms from the natural breakdown of uranium in the rock, soil, and water and permeates into the atmosphere. In the open air, it dilutes to harmless levels, but once inside an enclosed space like a home, it can accumulate to dangerous concentrations.

There is no safe level of radon exposure, but the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends mitigation for levels of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) and above.

How to Handle Common Radon Situations

Here are some common situations and how to handle them correctly:
  • New Property Construction
Radon can be found all across the country. Wherever you decide to put up new construction, incorporate radon-resistant construction techniques to help reduce radon levels. The techniques vary based on the foundation and other structural considerations. One common technique is installing a radon mitigation system during construction, which is cost-effective and less intrusive than retrofitting an older home. You can also install cross-linked vapor sheeting in your crawl space and a vent pipe that extends below the vapor membrane and up to the roof to prevent radon accumulation.
  • Existing Properties With High Radon Levels
Homeowners should test their homes for radon using available DIY radon test kits or by hiring professionals. If tests return radon levels above 4 pCi/L, it’s crucial to contact a certified radon mitigation expert in Idaho Falls to install a system that can effectively reduce radon levels. Sub-slab depressurization is a common radon mitigation method where a pipe and fan system are used to draw radon from beneath the house and release it outside.
  • Homes With Basements or Slab Foundations
These homes are at a higher risk for radon entry due to their proximity to the ground. Sealing cracks in the foundation and walls and ensuring proper ventilation can help reduce radon levels. In cases where the levels are high, engaging a professional to install an active mitigation system fit for your property design is the most effective way to reduce radon levels.
  • Real Estate Transactions
Currently, many home buyers and renters want information on the latest property radon levels before making a purchase. Since real estate transactions often take place quickly, it’s best to test your property for radon now and keep the results in case potential buyers need them. If your property has high radon levels, installing a mitigation system can be negotiated as part of the real estate transaction. You should also expect a buyer to request additional testing before completing the sale.
  • School and Workplace Environments
Given the long hours you spend in these buildings, regular radon testing is also recommended. For schools, many states mandate radon testing to ensure the safety of students and staff. Professional mitigation solutions are then installed if high levels are found.

DIY Vs Professional Radon Mitigation

Radon mitigation is no easy task. If you decide to undertake radon mitigation yourself, you need to have some basic construction skills. Next, find more information on what’s underneath your foundation and other property structures to help you select the appropriate mitigation system. Finally, retest the radon levels as required.

Professional radon mitigation experts have the expertise and equipment to design and install effective mitigation systems. They also offer post-installation monitoring and maintenance to ensure the system functions efficiently for your peace of mind.

We highly recommend hiring professionals like Eco Shield Restorations to guarantee an effective and properly installed radon mitigation system in Idaho Falls as the best way to protect the health and safety of your loved ones.

Contact Eco Shield Restorations for Radon Mitigation in Idaho Falls

For radon mitigation in Idaho Falls you can trust, Eco Shield Restorations is the team to call. We design and install a variety of fan-powered systems for spaces with basements, crawlspaces, and slab-on-grade foundations for guaranteed success in the reduction of radon levels. Contact us today for a free phone consultation and let’s make your home, school, or workplace safe from the risks of radon.

author avatar
Eco Shield Restorations

Share:

More Posts

ecoshield restorations

Asbestos Abatement in Idaho FallsĀ 

Asbestos is a heat- and corrosion-resistant material that was widely used in insulation and other building materials throughout the 1900s. However, in 1989, it was

Send Us A Message

Get A FREE Quote!

Name