Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that comes from the naturally-occurring breakdown of uranium and thorium. This radioactive gas is found in the soil and makes its way into homes and buildings through holes, cracks and other openings. The highest concentration of radon indoors can be found in basements and any other underground space. That can create an enormous health hazard for any homeowner with a finished basement, and who may spend even a few minutes in their basement. Over time, exposure to this radon gas can lead to health complications and diseases such as cancer and other illnesses.
Below, you’ll read how to test for radon and how to install a radon mitigation system in your home.
Radon Levels in Central Iowa
Unfortunately, Iowa has some of the highest radon levels in the country. The Environmental Protection Agency places all 99 counties in Iowa in Zone 1 for radon levels, meaning the average radon level is higher than 4.0 pCi/L. Nearly half the homes in Story County have radon levels above 4.0 pCi/L, the level at which radon mitigation is recommended.
Without a radon mitigation system in your home, you are vulnerable to serious health issues like lung cancer. Radon is linked to over 20,000 deaths per year and is the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking. You can take action by having a cost-effective and proven radon mitigation system installed to keep radon at a the lowest level possible in your home.
Testing for Radon in Ames, Iowa
The first step when testing for radon is to establish what the existing radon level is. As radon makes its way indoors, it has nowhere to go. Since Iowa and Story County have elevated radon levels, it is very important to know how much radon your home has. Cyclone Contracting will send you a free radon testing kit. In order for the test to provide accurate results, it is important to not have doors or windows open for an extended period of time leading up to the test. Simply leave the testing kit out for three to seven days in your basement or lowest level of the building.
If you’re not entirely confident in conducting your own radon testing, Cyclone Contracting will do continuous radon monitor testing conducted by a Radon Certified Measurement Specialist. This is a short term, 48-hour test. Get in touch with us to schedule a radon testing appointment today.
Installing Your Radon Mitigation System
If the radon test results come back with levels higher than 4.0 pCi/L, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Cyclone Contracting to develop a plan for installing a mitigation system. We will provide an estimate for the work to be completed by Rathert Radon, the radon mitigation branch of Cyclone Contracting.
What is a Radon Mitigation System?
While the idea of radioactive gas being present in your home can seem daunting, a radon mitigation system is not. This is a simple system made up of a vent pipe and a fan. It is non-intrusive and will not be an eyesore on your home. The system will monitor the radon levels as the fan constantly works to prevent radon from entering your home.
Each system will be installed to match your needs. A typical system will have the vent pipe running from the basement or lowest level to the outside of the building. The pipe will run up the side of the building with the termination exhaust at least 12 inches above the edge of the roof.
How Much Will A Radon Mitigation System Cost?
You can expect a radon mitigation system to cost between $1,100 – $1,600, a small price to pay for peace of mind. Radon mitigation systems have been proven to reduce radon exposure with constant mitigation. A standard system installation takes just one day to complete. Each system installed by Rathert Radon is backed by a five-year warranty that covers the fan and labor. Fan energy usage ranges from 41-72 watts, but is typically less than $50/year.
Will a Radon Mitigation System Be Noticeable?
We will make every attempt to make the system as discreet as possible. Some systems can go through the attic, while others go up the exterior of your home. All of our components are paintable, allowing the radon mitigation system to blend in with your existing structure. The radon mitigation system fan is quieter than the typical bathroom fan.
Maintaining a Radon Mitigation System
Once the radon mitigation system is installed, it will run continuously with no maintenance needed. You will always know the fan is running with the u-tube manometer attached to the system. This attachment will provide the level of pressure on the fan.
Work with Cyclone Contracting for Radon Mitigation
It’s time to stop wondering about the radon levels in your home and take action to remove the radioactive and dangerous gas. Work with Cyclone Contracting to have a trustworthy radon mitigation system installed with integrity. Our work does not stop once the installation is complete. We always perform a post-mitigation test and guarantee our system will provide radon levels below 4.0 pCi/L for five years. We have installed over 1,000 radon mitigation systems to protect families in central Iowa. Schedule an appointment today to test for radon or get started on a radon mitigation installation or learn more about our radon services.