DIY Radon Testing & Remediation

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that’s produced by decaying uranium. Radon is present in nearly all soils, and very low levels of radon gas are found in the air we breathe every day. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon trapped in your home can cause lung cancer.

- Val Riedman

How does radon gas enter a home?

Radon gas moves from the soil into a home. Although small amounts of radon can seep directly through pores in concrete, the major entry points are cracks in basement floors, sump baskets and the perimeter of slabs. Any house, of any age, can have elevated radon levels. It really depends on the way your specific house interacts with the surrounding soil. Your neighbor’s radon level may differ significantly from yours.

How do I test for radon?

Start with a short-term test for a quick assessment to see if further testing is warranted. Most are activated charcoal–based and measure radon levels for two to seven days. Mail the tests to a lab for the results. Short-term tests are available at home centers, hardware stores and online retailers for $10 to $40. If your reading is above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), do a second test.