Is There Mold Growing in Your Home?

Name: Airduct Cleaning & Radon Co.
Address: 1251 S Front Ste B, Columbus, OH, 43206, United States
Telephone: 614-799-8530

Mold is something everyone should want to keep out of their house. Not only is it unsightly, but it can be harmful to people. Mold can cause sinus congestion, coughing, agitated eyes, and skin rashes. Those with asthmas or mold allergies are much more susceptible.

If you have chronic lung disease or immune system issues, you can even get infections from mold.

Before you deal with mold in your home, you need to understand how it gets there in the first place.

How Does Mold Develop in Homes?

Mold is a fungus that’s actually found in the air you’re breathing right now. The amount is so minimal, however, that it’s harmless. When moisture is present, however, mold starts to collect. Mold thrives and grows with moisture, creating spores that are released back into the air. This is when it starts to become a problem.

Because of its prevalence in the air, mold can start to build on any moist surface that’s left alone for too long. Unfortunately, this means it usually develops in places you don’t regularly see.

Common places for mold are underneath sinks, in crawl spaces, behind walls, on stocks of cardboard boxes, around air condition units, and behind washers and dryers.

How to Keep Mold from Developing in Your Home

The defenses against mold in your house are moisture control and regular cleaning. If your home (especially basement) feels damp, consider setting up a dehumidifier. This can make a big difference in mold development.

If your home experiences any amount of flooding, make sure to clean and dry it immediately. Remove any damaged carpet as well, even if it feels dry. Mold can develop underneath the carpet where you can’t see.

Beyond that, make sure you’re keeping your house cleaned, even in the less visible areas. Mold commonly forms in air ducts and behind your washing and drying machines. Dirty dryer vents can prevent moisture from escaping, resulting in mold build up.

The only way to truly know your home is mold free is to have these areas inspected and cleaned. For air duct and dryer vent cleaning in Dayton, Ohio and the surrounding communities, contact Air Duct Cleaning & Radon Company today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Radon Testing Before Basement Renovation

How long does radon testing take, and when should I do it?

Short-term tests typically run for 48 to 96 hours. That’s enough to get a clear baseline before renovation. If you're on a tight timeline, we offer same-day professional radon testing, using calibrated digital monitors with faster turnaround and higher accuracy.

🛠️ Pro Tip: Schedule your test at least a week before framing or insulation begins — that gives you time to take action if mitigation is needed.

Will finishing my basement make radon levels worse?

Often, yes. Finishing a basement reduces natural ventilation, seals air pathways, and creates negative pressure zones — all of which can trap radon gas inside. We frequently see radon levels double or triple after renovation.

If you plan to install drywall, flooring, or closed-cell insulation, test first. It's much harder to retrofit a system once the space is finished.

Do newer homes still need radon testing?

Absolutely. In fact, newer energy-efficient homes are often more airtight, which can amplify radon accumulation.
Radon isn’t about age — it’s about soil conditions, slab construction, and airflow. We’ve mitigated brand-new builds in Columbus that tested over 10.0 pCi/L before occupancy.

How often should I test for radon in a finished or remodeled basement?

The EPA recommends testing every 2 years, but after a basement remodel, you should test immediately after the work is complete — even if you tested beforehand.

🎯 And if you already have a radon mitigation system, make sure to re-test after any HVAC upgrades, insulation changes, or new construction that may affect airflow.

What is a safe level of radon gas before finishing a basement?

Below 2.0 pCi/L: No action needed — considered low risk.
2.0 to 3.9 pCi/L: Consider mitigation, especially if children live in the home.
4.0+ pCi/L: The EPA’s action threshold. Mitigation is strongly advised.

🔎 We’ve seen plenty of “borderline” homes spike to dangerous levels after finishing — so if you're anywhere near 4.0 pCi/L, don't wait.

Final Takeaway: Test First, Then Build

The only way to ensure a safe renovation is through early detection. Testing for radon before finishing your basement isn’t just smart — it’s essential.

Call (614) 799-8530 to schedule a professional radon consultation Licensed. Proven. Local. - Get answers before you build — and breathe cleaner air afterward.

Serving Columbus, Dayton, Springfield, Cincinnati, and all of Central Ohio

Call [614-799-8530]airduct-cleaning.com