5 Things Homeowners Need to Know About Radon Mitigation

Radon mitigation refers to any process or system that helps to minimize radon concentration in buildings. It aims at keeping radon levels as low as possible or reasonably achievable. One of the reasons why every homeowner needs to be concerned about radon is the risk it poses to their family’s health and general wellbeing. Understanding everything that needs to be done to get rid of radon from your home keeps you and your family safe from its side effects. This article discusses five things that every homeowner needs to know about radon mitigation.

  • There are Multiple Options For Radon Mitigation

Different homes may require a different option of radon mitigation system based on the housing design. Many homeowners tend to worry about the aesthetics of their radon mitigation system, probably because they saw other systems in their neighborhood or online that they did not like.

Radon: the natural radioactive gas that comes from the earth - concept image with radon text over a green mowed lawn.

Radon professionals can discuss various mitigation options that will be suitable for your home and can be hidden from the public view if needed. For instance, instead of the white PVC piping and a fan placed on the exterior of your home, you could have the system installed inside the garage. This will involve piping and a fan that starts from the basement and runs into the garage, where it is then channeled through the roof.

  • Cheap Radon Mitigation Can End Up Being Expensive

It is common for homeowners to choose the cheapest option for radon mitigation to save time and money. While this may seem like the best idea at the time, it could cost you much in the long run, especially if it makes the problem worse than before. Some of the costs that you may incur due to poor installation of a radon mitigation system include fixing unsatisfactory work, fines from the state or city you live in, and time wasted contacting the previous company for service. It could also turn out to be expensive when you want the initial system removed and replaced with a new system that works according to the expected codes and standards.

  • Radon Levels Vary Widely

The fact that the neighbors on both sides of your home had lower radon levels does not mean that your home will have the same readings. Every home needs to be tested independently and have a unique radon mitigation system installed based on your readings. Some of the reasons why radon levels vary from one house to another include the housing construction, geology of the area, and specific characteristics like the air exchange in your home. Once you have tested for radon, your mitigation professional needs to advise you on the best course of action that is suitable for your home.

  • Not All Radon Mitigation Companies Are The Same

It is important to be very careful when choosing a radon mitigation company or professional since not all contractors are qualified and certified to do the work. It is important to watch out for radon testing fraud as it could endanger your health. The last thing you want is for someone to tell you that your home is safe only to realize months later that you have had increased exposure to radon. There is a step-by-step process that radon professionals follow from the time they test for radon until the installation of individual mitigation systems. It is also important to have another test conducted before you move into a section of the house that was isolated.

  • Radon is a Fixable Issue

Although the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends keeping radon levels in your home below 4.0 pCi/L, radon mitigation professionals can help you minimize exposure to the least readings possible. They use proven removal techniques that have been time-tested to be efficient and effective at keeping your home safe from radon exposure. Hiring certified radon mitigation professionals give you the best chance of minimizing radon exposure and keeping your family safe. Doing everything necessary to deal with the radon problem in your home could be the best investment you can ever make to improve your indoor air quality and general wellbeing.

There is no “safe” level of radon since any amount of exposure could be critical, especially when you are exposed to it over a long time. It is important to seek the help of professionals when you encounter a radon problem in your home. Not only do mitigation professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to minimize exposure, but they also have years of experience in dealing with radon.