Does Your New Elmira Home Need a Radon Test? Trust a Home Inspection to Find Out
Is having a radon test done for your new Elmira home really something you should invest in? Well, the answer to that is that it depends. If you’re a first-time homebuyer, it might seem like an added expense that you don’t really need. However, please don’t underestimate how dangerous radon can really be.
What is Radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas that can cause cancer. You wouldn’t know that your wonderful new home could have a problem with it. It’s not something you can see, taste or smell in the air. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not present.
Radon comes from uranium that gets broken down in water, soil and rock. As it’s broken down, it’s released into the air you breathe. Your home may be functioning as a trap for the gas. It will rise up through the house at the lowest level, which would be the basement. From there, it can become a serious problem. Any home can have a radon problem, even if you don’t have a basement. Holes and cracks in the foundation create easy routes for the gas to get through.
Every time you breathe in air that contains radon, your risk of lung cancer increases, according to the EPA. The only way you can find out if your home contains high level of radon is to have it tested. Fortunately, if your home’s radon levels are abnormally high, there are ways to fix the problem.
How is a Radon Test Performed?
The radon test is done by a licensed home inspector. The testing device is placed in the lowest level of the home that will be used as living space, and it takes two days to get a result. A report is generated during that time that will detail any unusual changes in radon levels within the space.
At Precision Home Inspection, we use a continuous radon monitor. We’ve found that this device provides us with the best results, giving you peace of mind. In fact, we stand by the results you receive, and we offer a Radon Protection Plan for further protection. Check out this post to get the details on this new addition to your home inspection package for Elmira/Corning/Horseheads/Ithaca homebuyers.
Do You Need a Radon Test?
We always say that it’s better to be safe than sorry. It’s highly recommended when you have a finished basement that will function as a living space. It’s better for you to know the facts, and that way, you won’t have to worry. You’ll just be free to enjoy the beauty of your new home.
There’s so much that goes into inspecting your new Elmira home. If you’re in need of a radon test, it’s important you get a professional you can trust to perform it for you.
Make sure you join us next week when we’ll be discussing what you need to know about your new house’s furnace or boiler. It’s winter, and this is information you need to know if you’re purchasing a new home this time of year.
Do you need to make an appointment for a home inspection in Elmira, Corning, Horseheads, or anywhere else in the Twin Tiers? We’re here for you! Contact us today to set up your appointment.