Frequently Asked Questions

Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless radioactive gas that occurs naturally from the radioactive decay of uranium found in soil, rock, and water. It can enter buildings through cracks in floors, walls, foundations, and other openings. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking and the number one cause among non-smokers.

Radon enters homes through:

• Cracks in concrete floors and walls
• Gaps in suspended floors
• Open areas around pipes and utility penetrations
• Cavities inside walls
• Water supply (especially from private wells)
• Sump pump pits
• Floor drains

Radon levels are typically highest in basements and ground floor areas.

The EPA action level for radon is 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). However, the EPA recommends that Americans consider fixing their home when radon levels are between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L. There is no "safe" level of radon exposure - the lower the level, the lower the risk.

There are two primary ways to test for radon:

• Short-term testing: 2-90 days (typically 48 hours) using continuous radon monitors or charcoal canisters
• Long-term testing: 90+ days using alpha track detectors

Professional testing ensures proper placement, closed-home conditions for short-term tests, and accurate results. We offer both types of testing services.

You should test for radon:

• When buying or selling a home
• If you've never tested your current home
• After major renovations or changes to your home's structure
• After installing a mitigation system (to verify effectiveness)
• Every 2-5 years as a general practice
• If you have a finished basement that you use regularly

Short-term testing (48 hours)

• Best for real estate transactions
• Requires closed-home conditions
• Provides quick results
• May not reflect annual average exposure

Long-term testing (90+ days)

• Most accurate for determining annual average
• Accounts for seasonal variations
• Normal living conditions maintained
• Recommended by EPA for occupied homes

The most common and effective mitigation method is Active Soil Depressurization (ASD), also called sub-slab depressurization. This system:

• Uses a pipe installed through the foundation floor
• Creates negative pressure beneath the foundation using a fan
• Collects radon before it enters your home
• Vents radon safely above the roofline

Systems are custom-designed based on your home's construction and radon levels.

Radon mitigation system costs typically range from $1,200 to $2,000 for residential homes, depending on:

• Home size and foundation type
• Current radon levels
• System complexity required
• Number of suction points needed
• Aesthetic preferences for system placement

We provide free consultations and estimates for all mitigation projects.

Most residential radon mitigation systems can be installed in one day (4-8 hours). The process includes:

• Creating suction point(s) in the foundation
• Installing piping and the radon fan
• Routing exhaust pipe to above the roofline
• Sealing any cracks or openings
• Installing system monitor
• Testing system performance

Complex systems may require additional time.

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, causing an estimated 21,000 deaths annually. Health risks include:

• Lung cancer (primary risk)
• Increased risk for smokers exposed to radon
• No immediate symptoms; damage occurs over years
• Children may be more susceptible to radon damage

The risk increases with both the level of radon and the duration of exposure.

There is no completely "safe" level of radon exposure. The EPA has established 4.0 pCi/L as the action level, but recommends considering mitigation at levels between 2-4 pCi/L. Even at low levels, radon exposure carries some risk. The goal is to reduce radon levels as much as possible.

While everyone is at risk from radon exposure, certain groups face higher risks:

• Smokers (20x higher risk than non-smokers)
• Former smokers
• Children (developing lungs may be more vulnerable)
• People who spend significant time in basements
• Individuals with pre-existing lung conditions

Iowa has the highest average radon levels in the nation due to:

• Glacial deposits containing uranium
• Underlying geology with granite bedrock
• Soil composition that allows radon to move easily
• All 99 counties classified as Zone 1 (highest risk)

71.6% of Iowa homes tested have radon levels at or above the EPA action level.

Iowa requires:

• Radon-resistant construction in new homes (since April 2020)
• Disclosure of radon test results in real estate transactions
• Testing of all public schools by July 1, 2027
• Testing of licensed childcare facilities
• Professional certification for radon testers and mitigators

Iowa does not mandate testing for existing homes, but strongly recommends it.

Iowa offers several incentives:

• Property tax credits for radon mitigation in some counties
• Low-interest loans through some local programs
• Potential home insurance discounts
• Increased home value after mitigation

Check with your county assessor and insurance provider for specific programs.