Radon gas is an invisible, odorless, tasteless, and chemically inert radioactive gas. It is formed by the natural radioactive decay of uranium in rock, soil, and water, and it can be found in all 50 states. Because it is approximately 7.5 times heavier than air, it tends to be higher in basements or lower levels of homes and buildings.
The EPA has linked radon exposure to higher chances of developing lung cancer, and has ranked radon exposure as the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. (behind smoking).
Radon testing is the only way to know whether your home or property has a radon concentration of 4.0 pCi/L or higher.
There are three radon testing options. All of them are designed to give an accurate measurement of radon gas in your home or property. Keep reading to learn more and determine which is the best fit for your situation.
Note: Testing costs will vary depending on which of these options your choose.
You can buy DIY radon test kits at a local hardware store or over the Internet. These types of radon kits come with step-by-step instructions so you can prepare and set the test, and mail it to a lab for direct results. A DIY radon test kit costs around $30+, which is a fraction of the cost of a certified radon test. Certified radon tests typically take two to four days for a short-term test. A long-term radon test should be left in place for 90 days to one year.
Digital monitor unit measures radon levels short-term and long-term. Instructions and variations include Bluetooth connection to your cell phone. Reminder: Even though the monitor shows a long-term number sooner, long-term is 90 days or more. Data can be reset and unit moved to a different location to give the radon level. Radon monitors ($100-500+) can be bought at local hardware stores or ordered over the internet to be used overtime in different locations. Boulder Edge recommends and offers Corentium Home by Airthings at a 10% discount. Use our promo code: BEI-10off [LINK: BUY NOW]
BUY NOWAn independent certified radon technician (from Boulder Edge or second-party referral) will ensure the test ($150+) is set according to the National Radon Proficiency Program (AARST-NRPP) and with the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB). The technician will pick up the test and report on its analysis.