Frequently Asked Questions

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For additional reading, these organizations provide radon guidance, health information, and recommended action levels.

What is radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can’t be seen, smelled, or tasted. It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water and can get into the air you breathe. Radon can enter homes through cracks in floors, walls, or foundations, and collect indoors. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.

Can a brand new home have radon?

Yes. New construction can still allow radon entry through the foundation. Testing is recommended for every home, regardless of age.

Does sealing cracks fix radon?

Sealing helps, but it is rarely enough by itself. Effective mitigation usually requires active venting with a fan system designed to reduce sub-slab or crawl space pressure.

Is radon only a basement problem?

Radon is often highest in basements and crawl spaces, but it can affect any level of the home depending on airflow, openings, and stack effect.

How often should I re-test?

Re-test after mitigation, after major renovations, or if you change how you use lower levels of the home. Periodic testing is a good habit for long-term peace of mind.

How do I know if my home has high radon levels?

The only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels is to test for it. You cannot predict radon levels based on state, local, or neighborhood measurements. Homes right next to each other can have very different radon levels. You should test your home regardless of its age, foundation type, or geographic location.

What radon level is considered dangerous?

The EPA recommends taking action to reduce radon levels in your home if the result of a test is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. Radon levels less than 4 pCi/L still pose a risk, and in many cases may be reduced. The average indoor radon level is about 1.3 pCi/L in the United States.

Quick takeaway: If your test result is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, plan to mitigate. If it is between 2.0 and 3.9 pCi/L, consider mitigation, especially for long-term exposure or frequently used lower levels.

How much does radon mitigation cost?

The cost of a radon mitigation system depends on your home’s design, size, foundation, construction materials, and the local climate. Costs typically range from $800 to $2,500, with an average of about $1,200. The cost is often less than other common home repairs such as roof or furnace replacement.

How does radon mitigation work?

Radon mitigation typically involves installing a system that uses pipes and a fan to remove radon gas from beneath your home and vent it outside. The most common type is a sub-slab depressurization system, which pulls radon from beneath the foundation before it can enter your home. Other methods may be used depending on your home’s construction.