We recently re-tested with a Short-Term Test Kit and here are the results:
03/25/10 ACTIVATED CHARCOAL RADON TEST #5224635
* Radon Test Result = 1.2 pCi/L
* Test Started 03/15/10 at 5:00 pm
* Test Ended 03/21/10 at 11:00 am
* Location Basement
What is Radon?
- Radon is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas.
- The average indoor radon level is estimated to be about 1.3 pCi/L, and about 0.4 pCi/L of radon is normally found in the outside air.
- Radon can be found all over the United States and every 1 in 15 homes is estimated to contain elevated levels of Radon (4 picocuries per liter, or pCi/L, or higher).
- Radon can be tested to determine if your home (or commercial structure) has elevated levels of Radon.
- If you find elevated levels of Radon, you can have a Radon Reduction (or Mitigation) System installed. These systems are affordable and can easily be negotiated as part of your contract if you are purchasing an existing home.
- There are two types of Radon Testing, Short-Term Testing (2-90 days) and Long-Term Testing (90 days +).
- New structures (both residential and commercial) can be built with Radon Resistant Features. If purchasing a new home, it still should be tested even if it was designed with Radon Resistant Features.
RADON GETS IN THROUGH:
- Cracks in solid floors
- Construction joints
- Cracks in walls
- Gaps in suspended floors
- Gaps around service pipes
- Cavities inside walls
- The water supply
There are great resources available if you are interested in learning more. The U.S. EPA's website has a section, A Citizen's Guide to Radon.
EPA Recommends:
- Test your home for radon — it's easy and inexpensive.
- Fix your home if your radon level is 4 picocuries per liter, or pCi/L, or higher.
- Radon levels less than 4 pCi/L still pose a risk, and in many cases may be reduced.
State Radon Contact Information
Ohio Radon Info, News, County Levels, Inspectors and Mitigators
Ohio Department of Health - Radon Test Kits ($6.95)
Images courtesy of the U.S. EPA.
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