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Radon Testing & Mitigation

Jan 6

2 min read

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radon testing & mitigation

Radon testing and mitigation are essential processes for safeguarding indoor air quality and protecting against the health risks posed by radon, a radioactive gas that naturally forms from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. Radon is invisible, odorless, and tasteless, making testing the only way to detect its presence.


Radon Testing

Testing for radon involves measuring its concentration in indoor air, typically expressed in picoCuries per liter (pCi/L). There are two main types of tests:


  • Short-Term Testing: Methods like activated charcoal canisters or electret ion chambers measure radon levels over 2–7 days. These are quick and cost-effective but may not account for long-term fluctuations.

  • Long-Term Testing: Devices such as alpha track detectors or continuous radon monitors assess radon levels over 90 days to a year, providing a more accurate average by accounting for seasonal variations.


Testing is often conducted at the lowest occupied level of a home, and results above 4 pCi/L (or 200 Bq/m³ in Canada) typically warrant mitigation measures.


Radon Mitigation

If high radon levels are detected, professional mitigation systems can reduce concentrations by up to 99%. The most common and effective method is sub-slab depressurization, which involves installing a vent pipe and fan system to draw radon from beneath the foundation and release it outdoors. Other techniques include:


  • Sealing entry points: Reducing radon infiltration through cracks in floors and walls.

  • Increased ventilation: Using heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) to improve airflow while maintaining energy efficiency.

  • Water treatment systems: For homes with radon-contaminated water, aeration or activated charcoal systems can remove radon before it enters indoor air.


Mitigation systems are affordable compared to other home repairs and require proper installation by certified professionals to ensure effectiveness. Regular maintenance is also necessary to sustain low radon levels.


By combining accurate testing with proven mitigation strategies, homeowners can significantly reduce radon exposure, protecting their families from its associated health risks, including lung cancer.

Jan 6

2 min read

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