What is Radon?

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas released into the ground as a result of uranium decay in the soil.  It enters our homes through small cracks and other openings in the foundation.  Prolonged exposure (such as a high level of the gas in a living space) is a serious environmental health risk; the EPA estimates 7,000 – 30,000 lung cancer deaths per year are the result of residential radon.  Additional information on radon can be obtained from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and Energy (NJ DEPE ) by calling 1-800-648-0394.  

Most real estate contracts provide for short term testing and analysis (2-6 day exposure, with results available within 10 days), which we generally offer as part of our basic home inspection package.  Longer term testing for 90 – 330 days is also available. 

Homes built on slab foundations have ground-level entries and windows which provide  adequate ventilation and do not usually require radon testing.  Likewise, testing is not generally recommended for condominiums, especially those on upper floors.

If testing confirms that the radon gas level in the home is above the recommended limit (the NJ DEPE guidelines recommend that anything above 4.0 picoCuries per liter be remediated), you may be comforted to know that radon gas is one of the easiest and least costly environmental hazards to correct.   

Ken Marchi’s HomeTeam performs independent testing only; we do not offer installation of radon remediation systems.

How Does Radon Enter the Home?

Typically the air pressure inside your home is lower than the pressure in the soil around your home's foundation.

Due to this difference, your house acts like a vacuum, drawing radon gas in through foundation cracks and other openings of your home.

Radon may also be present in well water and can be released into the air in your home when water is used for showering and other household uses.

For Additional Information regarding Radon, Check out these Websites:

 EPA's Website

The American Lung Association's Website

The National Safety Council