What is Radon?

A common question from home inspectors (in this area at least) is "do you want to do a radon test?"  So what is radon, anyway?  

Radon is a colorless, odorless, naturally occurring gas.  It is formed by radioactive decay of radium atoms, a byproduct of radium and uranium.  Both of these elements are found in granite, and since Massachusetts and New Hampshire (The Granite State) have a lot of granite in the ground, we stand a good chance of having radon.  In most instances as the radon gas permeates the ground, it is diluted by the air around it and is not usually a problem.  But it can find its way into a house through openings and cracks in the foundation and become trapped inside.  Without proper ventilation in cases like this, it can definitely become a health concern.  How do you test for radon?

Radon testing is usually done over a 48 hour period with either carbon or charcoal caniters, or a continuous electronic monitor.   Results are displayed in Picocuries (pCi) per liter. The EPA has set 4.0 pCi/L as the upper limit in a home and recommends a remediation system if the level is above that number.  Can you mitigate radon?

A remediation system is pretty simple.  It uses a fan to draw the radon gas through a pipe installed under the basement slab and exhaust it to the exterior of the home.  Any cracks are sealed and any sump pump holes are covered and sealed.  The exhaust pipe exits through the rim joist or rool, with a waterproof fan installed in the attic or the exterior of the home.  A visual reader shows the level of radon as monitored by the system, so you can see the level, as radon readings constantly change.  Most companies provide a warranty for a number of years, too, to help you feel secure that the system is working.  

For more information, go to the EPA website, or contact a home inspector or radon remediation company.