Secrets from the basement: how radon gas is tested

Most people have no idea that a radioactive hazard could be sitting quietly beneath their feet. Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that is hard to detect but poses a real health risk: long-term exposure significantly raises the risk of lung cancer.

In the United States it is the second most common cause of the disease after smoking, and studies show that even relatively low levels add up to a real risk over many years.

A periodic radon test tells you whether your home has a radon problem, so you can act on it. This article covers where radon comes from, the health risks, and how to detect and prevent exposure to protect your family.

What is radon gas

Radon is a byproduct of the radioactive decay of uranium, which occurs naturally in soil and rock. It escapes into the atmosphere and often finds its way into homes through cracks in the foundation, gaps around water and sewage pipes, and openings in the lower floors.

Once inside, it becomes trapped and can build up to dangerous levels, mainly in basements with poor ventilation; a well-ventilated building will generally not show high radon levels.

Prolonged exposure to high radon levels raises the risk of lung cancer further, especially for smokers and people with lung disease. How common radon is in homes varies by region, depending on the local geology and construction methods: the risk is highest for people living in areas with radon-rich soil, or spending a lot of time in basements and underground spaces that are not well ventilated.

This calls for a proactive approach: testing and monitoring radon levels in the home to protect the health of the people living there.

How radon testing works

There are several ways to check radon levels in a home, from home test kits to certified inspection services. Testing can be done at any time, but radon levels shift over the year, so it is best done in winter, when homes are closed up and less ventilated and gas concentrations tend to run higher.

A short-term test lasting 3 days is the most common option; a long-term test gives more accurate data. Radon testing is usually carried out before buying an apartment with a basement that has limited ventilation, and the basement must be kept fully closed for the duration of the test.

Experts recommend testing radon levels at least once every two years to track changes and confirm they stay below the recommended safe threshold. If a test finds high levels, consider ways to bring them down, such as improving ventilation and sealing cracks in the building.

What a radon test costs

The cost of radon testing varies widely between the options. The difference comes down to a few factors:

• Size, layout and access: a private house has more area and more spaces that need testing than a small apartment, which pushes up the price.
• Number of detectors: more detectors and samples mean a more accurate reading, and a higher cost.
• Complexity: cases that need more expertise and time to analyze the results cost more than a standard test.

Self-testing kits

You can buy a radon test kit and run the test yourself. These kits come with detailed instructions and the equipment you need. It is a cheaper option and gives a basic reading, but it is not as accurate as a professional test.

Saving money is tempting, but weigh the accuracy of the test against the price, not just the price on its own: your family's health and safety come first. If you have any doubts, consult a certified professional.

Why radon testing matters

Checking for radon is not just a health precaution, it is an investment in your long-term quality of life. Don't ignore the risk: testing now is the way to a safer home.

Arad Bedek Bayit has specialized in engineering testing for more than 20 years. Our team of engineers handles radon detection and mitigation from start to finish, with accurate results and practical recommendations for making your home safer.

For any question about radon gas, testing or pricing, call us at 077-670-4444.

Disclaimer: this post is for general information only. It is not a substitute for professional advice or a full radon test carried out by a certified expert.