Now is the Time to Check for Radon

Between the winter weather and the on-going COVID-19 restrictions, you’re bound to be staying in your house quite a bit over the next few months. What many don’t realize is that there are often hidden dangers hiding in your home. Some of them may even be in the air you’re breathing. 

One of the most dangerous substances that makes its way into homes’ air supplies is radon. This odorless gas is safe in small doses. At higher levels, however, it becomes a serious threat to your health and safety. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. 

If you haven’t had your home checked for radon, now is the time to do it. Testing is simple and highly affordable. If you’re radon levels are too high, professional mitigation can bring it down to normal and keep your family safe.  

For radon inspections and mitigation in Dayton, Ohio and the surrounding communities, contact Air Duct Cleaning & Radon Company today! 

How Does Radon Get into Your Home? 

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that’s found in most our planet’s air. That means radon is likely already inside of your home. Don’t be too alarmed, however. As we said before, in small doses, radon is harmless. But left unchecked, this radioactive element can be very hazardous to your health.  

Excess radon can enter your home in a number of ways including through walls, seams, sump pumps, concrete, and more. Basements are often most susceptible to radon buildup, as they tend to have less airflow. However, just because you don’t have a basement doesn’t mean you’re safe from radon. 

Every structure is at risk of radon poisoning, which means every structure needs to have its radon levels checked. It’s estimated that 1 in 15 US homes have radon levels above the EPA’s recommended level.  About 21,000 lung cancer deaths are caused by radon every year. 

One simple test can assure you that your family, friends, coworkers, etc. are safe from the harmful effects of radon. If you’re in the Miami Valley area, contact Air Duct Cleaning & Radon Company today to get your home tested for radon. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Radon Testing Before Basement Renovation

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.

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.

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.

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.

  • 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

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