There are cracks in the foundation. Nothing structural. Nothing thats going to threaten the stability of the home, but they are there. Nooks, crannies and holes through which seeps an invisible threat. Colorless, odorless and undetectable by your average human, it is none the less the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

Radon gas - even the name sounds ominous, evoking images of radiation and nuclear devastation is created when uranium in the soil decays. The gas then seeps through any access point into a building. Common entry points are cracks in the foundation, poorly sealed pipes, drainage or any other loose point. Once in the building, the gas can collect in certain areas especially basements and other low-lying, closed areas and build up over time to dangerous levels. The Environmental Protection Agency of the US Government has set a threshold of 4 pico curies per liter as the safe level. As humans are exposed to the gas over a period of years, it can have a significant and detrimental effect.

How widespread is the problem? Radon has been found in homes in all 50 states. Certain areas are more susceptible than others (http://www.epa.gov/radon/zonemap.html), but no location is immune. Concentrations of radon-causing materials in the soil can be either natural or man-made. Homes built near historic mining operations may be at higher risk. The only way to tell for sure is to have the property tested.

If youre buying or selling a home, radon can be a significant issue. Buyers should be aware of the radon risk in our area and determine whether a radon test is desirable. When in doubt, the EPA always recommends testing. The cost of the test can be built into the house price. If test results already exist, make sure they are recent or that the home has not been significantly renovated since the test was performed. If in doubt, get a new test done. If youre selling a home, having a recent radon test is a great idea. By being proactive, you can assure potential buyers that there is no risk and avoid the issue from the start.

TEK Inspections utilizes a continuous Radon monitor to evaluate the level of Radon in your structure.  Many companies use passive radon detection devices that are unable to point out spikes in Radon levels or attempts to tamper with the testing.  TEK Inspections is NEHA Certified (ID# 104857 RT) the only certification recognized by both the states of Nevada and California for Radon Measurement Providers.  Call today to discuss having your property professionally tested.

So whether you have an old home or a new one, live in an old mining town or up in the Sierras radon is a reality. But it is a reality that we can live with. Proper testing and mitigation, can eliminate radon as a health threat. For more information, visit the EPA web site on radon at http://www.epa.gov/radon or take a moment to watch this video.