• Radon Testing Wisconsin and Illinois: Protecting your family’s health

    Sun, 03/24/2024 - 23:38

    Parents with two young children playing a puzzle together after Radon Testing Inspection

    Welcome to the world of home ownership! 

    As a home inspector, I enjoy educating homeowners on how to protect and maintain their investments. I want to switch gears and discuss another important home-related issue: protecting your family’s health from Radon gas. Did you know that Radon gas is in one out of four homes? 

    Unseen Danger

    You might think, “What’s the big deal about radon?” Well, let’s break it down. Radioactive radon gas is highly toxic if exposed to it over the long term. It is an invisible radioactive gas that forms naturally from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks. You can’t see, smell, or taste it, but it’s lurking in places like your basement.

    Infiltration Pathways

    So, how does Radon get into your home? It seeps in through cracks in the foundation, gaps around pipes, or even your sump basin. Essentially, anywhere there’s a pathway from the ground into your home, Radon can find its way in.

    Health Risks

    Prolonged exposure to Radon is bad for your health. While small amounts of Radon are usually harmless because they disperse quickly, breathing in high levels over time can damage your lungs and increase your risk of developing lung cancer. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that approximately 21,000 deaths each year are attributable to radon-induced lung cancer. In fact, it says Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, right after smoking. And if you’re a smoker living in a radon-rich environment, your risk is even higher.

    Taking Action

    Fortunately, testing for Radon is both accessible and budget-friendly. While DIY test kits are available, their effectiveness is often questioned. For the most precise results, it’s advisable to enlist the expertise of a certified professional. This is where T-Rex Inspections excels. Utilizing specialized equipment, we accurately measure Radon levels in your home, providing you with peace of mind regarding potential risks to your health.

    Why you should test for Radon in your home

    • The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that the standard for Radon in air is 4 pCi/L or less. And that your home be tested every two years.
    • Only a professional test administered by a certified inspector can confirm a home or building is radon-free. 
    • Both the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) recommend taking action to reduce indoor air radon levels to a level of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or less.
    • A Radon test costs between $150 and $175, and the equipment can be in your home for about a week.
    • Radon mitigation costs are relatively affordable. Several factors, including the home’s location, design and size and the type of foundation, determine the cost. However, a certified contractor can install a radon mitigation system for around $1,200, although it can range from $800 to $2,000. Get more info at Wisconsin DHS and Illinois IEMA. 
    • The states of Wisconsin and Illinois do not require the seller to take any corrective action if the home tests high for Radon. However, the seller is legally obligated to disclose the radon test results to potential buyers.

    How We Can Help

    At T-Rex Inspections, we are your trusted partner in ensuring the safety and integrity of your residential and commercial properties. Based in Southern Wisconsin, we proudly serve Kenosha, Walworth, Racine Counties, and Upper Illinois, including Lake and McHenry Counties.

    T-Rex Inspections utilizes the highly acclaimed E-PERM® System, renowned for its accuracy in measuring indoor and outdoor radon concentrations. Developed with extensive research and patented technology, E-PERM® has become one of the most trusted and widely used devices in radon measurement worldwide.

    As the owner, operator, and certified inspector, Terry Johnson is dedicated to delivering top-notch inspections that provide real value to our clients. T-Rex Inspections is recognized as a go-to for radon testing services and is committed to thoroughness and honesty. We take pride in our professionalism, and whether you’re opting for a standalone radon test or our complete home inspection package, you’ll receive the same level of care. When you choose to work with us, you’re not just receiving a service – you’re benefiting from years of hands-on expertise and a genuine commitment to your safety and peace of mind.

    T-Rex Inspections

     Residential and Commercial Inspections for WI and IL.
    Trust our certified home inspector, Terry Johnson, for reliable     Radon testing services.

     

    Contact T-Rex Inspections LLC today to schedule your inspection and ensure the safety of your property.
    Explore our full range of inspection services for peace of mind.