If you’re not aware of the dangers of radon poisoning then you aren’t aware that every year in the United States about 20,000 people die a year due to the poisoning of radon, which usually takes it’s form of lung cancer.

Radon can be described as a naturally colorless smell-less, radioactive gas that results from the decomposition of uranium in soil, rocks, and water. Because the pressure in the air of houses and other structures is less than that of the earth, the home is essentially an air vacuum and releases the radon in the soil through cracks and gaps within the foundation of the house. The presence of radon has been detected in water from wells and can enter the homes of families who utilize it for showering, washing or drinking.

Testing

The EPA recommends that all levels below the floor level of the house be checked for the presence of radon. There are two primary methods of testing your house for radiation:

Home kits: They typically cost between $15 and $30. They usually include an analysis cost for a lab. Don’t buy a radon kit through a store or website that isn’t DEP certified.

Radon tests are conducted at the bottom of the home or building and the basement is where you will see the most evidence of radon.

Radon Testers Testers make use of similar equipment to home kits and will abide by the DEP standards.

Mitigation

Removal of radon usually occurs during mitigation and should be performed by a trained professional, as only a certified professional. Mitigation is an attempt to reduce the amount of radon present in the building. The EPA suggests using a state-certified or another qualified expert in radon mitigation professionals to reduce the amount of radon within a building or home. You can search the state of your residence to find mitigation experts who are state-certified within your region. If you live in a state that does not have regulations on radon, you should be certain to select only contractors that have certifications in the removal of radon.

The Contract

As with all businesses one should write down what work is expected to be completed before the work is completed to ensure you understand the price you will pay and settle any disagreements that could arise following the work is completed. Choose the contractor who meets the radon levels or alter their method to reach the required level. The cost of contracting could vary from $800 up to $2500, based on the structure and the quantity of work required.