Question 1

Is radon a serious problem?

Accepted Answer

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Radon is present almost everywhere but, like sunlight, the concentration levels and how often you are exposed to it have a large part to play in just how dangerous it is. There are levels of radon that are acceptable inside a house, but above a certain limit, radon becomes a serious radioactive hazard that is a known cause of lung cancer. In fact, radon exposure is the number two leading cause of lung cancer (after smoking).

Question 2

Is it worth it to get radon testing done?

Accepted Answer

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It is worthwhile to get radon testing done, especially if you haven’t in the past and don’t have active radon monitoring set up in your home. According to the American Lung Association, radon is a potential issue in all states, and testing is the best way to determine if it’s a current problem in your home. Radon testing includes professional tests that determine ongoing radon levels in your property, and it usually includes a mitigation protocol to help you decide what measures to take to protect your home and household members.

Question 3

How long does it take to see test results?

Accepted Answer

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A professional indoor air quality inspection takes anywhere from one to three hours, depending on the size of your home and the number of necessary samples. After the test, the specialist will discuss the findings, but you won’t get a full written report for 2 to 10 days, though you can ask your pro to expedite the process, if needed.

Question 4

How do I know if I have a radon problem?

Accepted Answer

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The only way to determine if you have a radon problem in your home is to have professional testing done. You can buy DIY radon test kits, but these are sometimes inaccurate in certain temperatures and humidity levels, and they don’t paint the entire picture in terms of your radon exposure. Scheduling testing once every two to five years is best. You can also look out for the following symptoms, which, according to the American Cancer Society, are symptoms of radon exposure:

Shortness of breath
Cough
Tightness in the chest
Difficulty swallowing
Hoarseness

Shortness of breath
Cough
Tightness in the chest
Difficulty swallowing
Hoarseness

Question 5

Can I test indoor air quality myself?

Accepted Answer

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A DIY kit can lessen the sting that comes with paying for a professional assessment, but these comprehensive tests are true lifesavers. Inspectors are more likely to catch all of the pollutants and hazards in your air. Plus, you’ll still need a professional to verify and act on your DIY test results.

Some kits don’t include tests for certain air pollutants or only detect their presence, but not their levels (i.e., mold spores). If you’re willing to shell out money for a DIY kit, it’s usually better to stretch your budget slightly higher for a more detailed assessment.