Radon Testing
Nebraska has a very high incidence of radon in homes.
As a Nebraska Licensed Radon Measurement Business, CNHInspections will provide you with a timely report of the home's radon levels; measured from high-quality, industry leading testing equipment.
WHAT IS RADON GAS?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. Air pressure inside your home is usually lower than pressure in the soil around your home’s foundation. Because of this difference in pressure, your home acts like a vacuum, drawing radon in through foundation cracks and other openings, sometimes to very high concentrations. Any home may have a radon problem. This means new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements; and is especially problematic in basements. For this reason, regular radon testing is key whether you’re a homeowner, or you’re interested in purchasing a home.
DOES RADON POSE A HEALTH RISK?
You cannot see, smell, or taste radon. If present in your home, it may pose a danger to you and your family's health because radon gas decays into radioactive particles that can get trapped in your lungs when you breathe. As they break down further, these particles release small bursts of energy. This can damage lung tissue and lead to lung cancer over the course of your lifetime. According to the EPA, radon is one of the leading contributors to the development of lung cancer, behind only smoking.
WHAT IS THE ACTION LEVEL OF RADON?
The amount of radon in the air is measured in “picocuries per liter of air,” or “pCi/L.” According to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services the results of more than half of radon tests in the state are above the action level of 4.0 pCi/L. The following map compares average radon levels in Nebraska counties by using data through 2013. Note that homes with elevated radon levels were found in all zones. Regardless of geographic location, all homes should be tested for radon to prevent the possibility of long-term exposure to a radon hazard.
HOW DOES CNHINSPECTIONS TEST FOR RADON?
CNHInspections uses industry leading devices to test for radon. Our Airthings Corentium Pro Radon Monitors are continuous radon monitors, which means they report radon, temperature and humidity readings in increments of one hour i.e. continuously. With this technology we are able to perform a time-sensitive test, specifically for real estate transactions. The typical test time is 48 hours, with results being made available immediately after the test is completed. Our professional report, of your results, is then emailed directly to you.
WHAT STEPS CAN I TAKE IF MY RADON LEVELS ARE AT THE ACTION LEVEL?
There are several proven methods to reduce radon in your home, but the one primarily used is a vent pipe system and fan, which pulls radon from beneath the house and vents it to the outside. This system, known as a soil suction radon reduction system, does not require major changes to your home. Sealing foundation cracks and other openings makes this kind of system more effective and cost-efficient. Similar systems can also be installed in houses with crawl spaces. Radon contractors can use other methods that may also work in your home. The right system depends on the design of your home and other factors. Consult with your local health department to find a qualified radon mitigation company in your area.
DO HOMES BUILT RADON-RESISTANT NEED TESTED?
Today many homes are built to help prevent radon from coming in. Building codes may require these radon-resistant construction features. Even if built radon-resistant, every new home should be tested for radon after occupancy. If you have a test result of 4 pCi/L or more, consult a qualified mitigation company to estimate the cost of upgrading to an active system by adding a vent fan to reduce the radon level.
SHOULD A SELLER HAVE THEIR HOME TESTED?
The EPA recommends that home sellers test their home prior to selling and save your results. If you find high radon levels, fix your home before you decide to sell it. During home sales, buyers often ask if a home has been tested, and if elevated levels were reduced. Where radon problems have been fixed, home sales have not been blocked or frustrated. The added protection is sometimes a good selling point. Buyers frequently want tests made by someone who is not involved in the home sale. As a Nebraska Licensed Radon Measurement Business, CNHInspections will provide you with the results you need ahead of time that you may avoid negotiating stumbling blocks and make the home selling process easier.
