What is radon? Definition from dictionary.com: a colorless (and odorless) radioactive element of the rare gas group, the most stable isotope of which, radon-222, is a decay product of radium.
How common are radon issues? I’m not sure of the exact number but if I had to guess I’d say that radon comes back over the limit on 1 in 3 of my transactions. It’s so common that new construction regulations require that a pipe be installed so that it’s easy to add a mitigation system if necessary.
Is this scary? The answer depends. If you are the seller you may be concerned that you’ve been living in a home with radon. But, as a buyer, you should have zero concerns. A high radon level is one of those things that a seller must remedy in order to clear the home inspection contingency.
In fact, in my opinion, it’s a good thing as a buyer to have a radon test come back high.
Why is that? Radon levels fluctuate. Getting a low result today does not mean that you might not get a high result a week, a month or a year from now.
How does it work? Once a radon system is in place, the levels will return to almost zero and the house is safe again. Maintaining a radon remediation system is simple. The system consists of a pipe that is installed in the basement under the foundation and run outside up over the roof line. Attached to the pipe is a fan that runs silently, continuously pulling air (or radon) from below ground level to above the roof line where the gas then dissipates. Once in a while, you check the pressure gauge that is on the pipe in the basement. If it is in neutral position you know the fan isn’t working. If it’s in neutral position and you don’t hear the fan then all is good to go! The only time a radon system needs maintenance is if the pressure gauge is not in neutral position or if you hear the fan running.
Own a home and want to test for radon? Most hardware stores carry kits and some townships provide kits for free. Follow directions and then send it to the lab – results come back a few days after the lab receives your sample.
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