What is Radon?

A Hidden Health Risk

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil, rock, and water breaks down. This gas can seep into homes, schools, and workplaces through cracks and openings in the foundation.

  • Invisible Threat: Radon is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without proper testing.

  • Lung Cancer Risk: According to the EPA, radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. and the leading cause among non-smokers.

  • Actionable Levels: The EPA recommends addressing radon levels above 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter), though lower levels can still pose risks.

Radon in Central Ohio: A Regional Challenge

Ohio is classified as a high-risk radon zone by the EPA. Unique soil compositions and geological factors contribute to elevated radon levels in the area.

Facts About Radon in Ohio

  • Approximately 50% of homes in Ohio have radon levels above the EPA’s recommended action level.

  • Radon can be found in new and old homes alike, regardless of construction type or location.

  • Schools and multifamily properties in Ohio have also reported elevated radon levels, requiring specialized mitigation strategies.

How Radon Enters Your Home

Radon typically infiltrates through:

  • Cracks in walls and floors.

  • Gaps in construction joints.

  • Spaces around utility pipes.

  • Sump pits and crawlspaces.
    Even homes with well water can carry radon, though this is less common.

Radon’s Impact on Health

The Surgeon General warns that radon is a top environmental health risk in the United States.

Who Is at Risk?

  • Everyone in an affected property is exposed to radon, but risk increases with:

    • Prolonged exposure.

    • Smoking habits (radon and smoking create a compounded risk).

    • Occupancy in high-radon zones like Central Ohio.

How Radon Damages Health

Radon particles are inhaled and lodge in the lungs, emitting radiation that can damage lung tissue over time. While symptoms may not appear immediately, long-term exposure significantly raises the likelihood of developing lung cancer.

Testing for Radon: The First Step to Safety

Testing is the only way to know if your home or business has unsafe radon levels.

  • Short-Term Tests: Provide quick results, typically within 2–7 days.

  • Long-Term Tests: Offer more accurate readings by monitoring radon levels for 90 days or longer.

  • Professional Radon Testing: Conducted by licensed experts, ensuring precise results and actionable insights.

What to Do If Radon Levels Are High

Radon mitigation systems can significantly reduce radon levels, creating a safer environment.

Our Proven Process

  1. Consultation & Assessment: We evaluate your property to identify the best mitigation strategy.

  2. Custom System Design: Tailored to your property’s unique layout and radon levels.

  3. Installation: Using high-quality materials for long-term effectiveness.

  4. Post-Mitigation Testing: Ensuring radon levels are reduced to safe levels.

Radon Myths and Facts

  • Myth: Only old homes have radon problems.

    • Fact: Radon can infiltrate any building, regardless of age or type.

  • Myth: Radon testing is expensive and invasive.

    • Fact: Testing is affordable, quick, and non-invasive.

  • Myth: Radon mitigation isn’t necessary if levels are only slightly elevated.

    • Fact: Any level of radon exposure poses a risk, and mitigation ensures long-term safety.

Why Choose Mid Ohio Radon Experts?

  • Licensed & Experienced: With over 10 years of experience and licensure (RS295 and RC390), you can trust us to handle your radon concerns with expertise.

  • High-Quality Materials: We use the best materials to ensure durability and effectiveness.

  • Tailored Solutions: From single-family homes to multifamily properties, new builds, and schools, we design systems for your unique needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can radon be completely eliminated?
A: While radon cannot be entirely eliminated, mitigation systems can reduce levels to below the EPA’s recommended action threshold, making your home safe.

Q: How often should I test for radon?
A: Test your property every two years or after any major structural changes.

Q: Is radon a problem if I have a basement?
A: Yes. Basements are often more susceptible, but radon can affect any level of a home or building.

Take Action Today

Protect your loved ones and your property by addressing radon risks now. Contact us to schedule testing or learn more about our mitigation solutions.