Get matched with top radon detection and reduction specialists in Alliance, NE

Keeping radon from getting into your home is much better than having to get rid of it once it's already indoors. While there may not be a way to fully prevent radon from getting into your home, there are things you can do to reduce the gas's ability to enter. 

Sealing foundation cracks and openings can help keep the gas from seeping inside. Improving air flow, such as by opening windows, can also be helpful. If you're building your home from scratch, talk to your contractor about using radon-resistant construction to keep the gas out.

Radon testing costs around $450 on average, but you could pay between $150 and $800 for testing, depending on a few factors. The size of your house is one of the most significant cost factors, as your radon professional will have to set up additional tests for homes with larger footprints. The type of test can also have an impact on the cost. Finally, some radon testing companies will include a recommended protocol for radon mitigation, while others might charge $50 to $100 extra.

You can buy DIY radon test kits from a home improvement store and conduct radon testing, but these tests are often inaccurate. No matter the result, you should supplement DIY testing with professional radon detection and analysis. DIYers only have access to passive radon tests, which aren’t as reliable as active tests that professionals use. Plus, it’s very easy for DIYers to make mistakes during testing, leading to inaccurate results. If you’re moving into a new home, have concerns about radon, or are due for an updated test, hire a professional. 

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.