Testing for Radon in Boulder and Larimer Counties

Colorado’s radon can expose a lot of radiation each year

Radon is an odorless, colorless gas and is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States….and the number one cause among those who have never smoked! 54% of Colorado homes have such high levels of radon that the residents are exposed to as much radiation as they would get receiving 200 chest x-rays… annually!

It can get trapped in our homes and be at such high levels that it can affect your health. And, you wouldn’t ever know it unless you tested for it!

Free radon testing in Boulder County

Testing for radon is easy. My husband, always the engineer, borrowed a FREE testing kit from the Longmont Library to retest our home. (Hint: It is a good idea to retest your home every few years!)

And what do you know: the existing system was ineffective. Our home had 4x times the safe limit of radon. $1,400 and a new system later, it now tests safe.

You can borrow a radon testing machine for free from the Longmont library, or order a kit online (also free).

Fixing High Radon Levels

The EPA recommends fixing your home if levels are between 2 and 4 pCi/L or more. The average indoor radon level is about 1.3 pCi/L. Remember that high levels of radon in your home is a health risk and a leading cause of lung cancer.

It’s easy to fix any radon problems. It can be done without making major changes to your home, and the cost can be comparable to other home repairs.

High levels can be reduced several ways, including sealing cracks or installing venting pipes and fans or sub-slab suction. Get estimates from radon mitigation contractors. They can determine the most appropriate system for your home.

Radon and Home Renovation in Boulder County

Before you embark on any major home renovation, get your indoor radon levels checked. This is especially true if you are renovating a basement or lower level room in your home. And test your radon levels after you have completed any work since levels can change.

Also, it is better and less expensive to install a radon-reduction system during your renovations than afterward.

If you’d like recommendations on local radon mitigation companies, please contact me.