Radon testing is an essential step in evaluating the safety of a home or building, especially when considering long-term health risks for its radon testing occupants. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless—making it impossible to detect without specialized testing. Radon can enter a home through cracks in the foundation, basement floors, walls, crawl spaces, and even through well water. Once inside, it can accumulate to dangerous levels, especially in poorly ventilated areas. The reason radon testing is so important is because prolonged exposure to high levels of radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, after smoking. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately one in every fifteen homes has elevated radon levels, and some geographic areas are more prone to high radon concentrations than others. A professional radon test helps determine whether the levels inside a home are within safe limits or if mitigation is needed to reduce the risk. There are two main types of radon testing: short-term and long-term. Short-term tests typically last from 2 to 90 days and are often used during real estate transactions. These tests provide a quick snapshot of the radon levels in the home. Long-term tests, which last more than 90 days, give a more accurate reflection of the average radon level over time, accounting for changes in weather and ventilation patterns. Testing is typically conducted in the lowest livable area of the home, such as the basement or ground floor. Professional radon inspectors use equipment like charcoal canisters, alpha track detectors, or continuous radon monitors, which are placed in key locations and later analyzed for radon concentration. If results show radon levels at or above the EPA’s recommended action level of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), a radon mitigation system is advised. These systems often involve the installation of vent pipes and fans that draw radon from beneath the foundation and expel it outside, safely away from the home. In many regions, radon testing is now recommended or even required during the home-buying process. It offers buyers peace of mind and protects their families from a serious health hazard. Sellers also benefit from testing ahead of time, as a home with low or mitigated radon levels can be more attractive on the market. Radon mitigation systems are highly effective and typically not overly expensive, especially when compared to the potential health costs of long-term exposure. Choosing a certified radon measurement professional ensures accurate results and compliance with local laws and standards. In summary, radon testing is a simple, affordable, and powerful tool for protecting the health and well-being of your household. It provides critical data about the safety of your indoor air and helps ensure your home is a secure place to live. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply maintaining a home, radon testing should be on your checklist for a healthier living environment.