About Radon Testing

WHAT IS RADON?
Radon is not detected by our human senses; it is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas. This radioactive gas comes from the natural decay of uranium-236 and radium-238, which is mainly found in rock and soil.  The radon-laden gas from soil may enter buildings through various infiltration pathways and increase the concentration of radon gas and decay products in the indoor space.

Should All Homes Be Tested for Radon? The EPA, American Lung Association, Surgeon General, and leading health organizations all recommend that every home be tested for radon. Testing is simple and relatively inexpensive — and the stakes are significant. In the US, radon is linked to approximately 21,000 deaths each year and is the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers.

My Neighbor's Home Tested Fine — Does That Mean Mine Will Too? Not necessarily. Radon levels vary from home to home, even on the same street. Concentration levels depend on a number of factors unique to each property, including construction methods and the specific pathways through which radon can enter. Your neighbor's results are not a reliable indicator of your own.

What If My Home Has High Radon Levels? The EPA estimates that 1 in 15 homes in the United States has radon levels that warrant mitigation — and Pittsburgh-area homes face an even greater risk. The EPA reports that the average indoor radon level in the Pittsburgh area exceeds 4 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L), which is the EPA's threshold for recommended action. If elevated levels are found, a certified radon mitigation contractor can address the issue. Mitigation is typically an average cost of around $1,500.

How Does Welcome Home Test for Radon? Upon arriving at your property, we set up calibrated testing instrumentation and allow it to run undisturbed for 48 hours. After retrieval, the data is analyzed offsite and a detailed report — including radon concentration results and a clear discussion of the findings.