If you live in Augusta, Aiken, or Evans—or anywhere in Richmond County, Aiken County, or Columbia County—radon may not be the first thing on your mind. After all, you can’t see it, smell it, or taste it. Despite its invisibility, radon can be a major health hazard inside your home. This colorless, odorless gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, right after smoking, and it can accumulate silently in basements, crawl spaces, and even on upper floors.
As a fellow homeowner who’s been concerned about the safety of my living space, I know how unsettling it can be to worry about something you can’t detect on your own. In this blog, we’ll explore what radon is, where it’s found, how to tell if you have it, and what can be done to ensure your home remains safe. If you’re feeling uncertain or overwhelmed, EnviroPro 360 is here to help with professional radon testing and mitigation services designed for families in Augusta, Aiken, Evans, and beyond.
What Is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced when uranium breaks down in soil, rock, and water. These radioactive elements are commonly found in the Earth’s crust, which means radon can be released anywhere—even in the Southeast regions of the U.S. The gas typically seeps upward through cracks and openings in a home’s foundation, eventually mixing with the indoor air.
Here’s a quick rundown of radon’s key characteristics:
- Colorless and Odorless
You won’t notice any smell or visible sign of radon, which makes it particularly dangerous—no musty smell like mold, no pungent odor like gas leaks. - Radioactive Decay
Radon decays into radioactive particles that, when inhaled, can damage lung tissue over time. - Universal Presence
Radon is found across the globe in varying concentrations. Whether you live in an older home or a newly built one, radon can sneak in through foundation cracks, sump pumps, or crawl spaces.
Where Radon Tends to Be Found in Homes
Since radon originates in the ground, lower areas of your home are usually most at risk. However, don’t assume you’re safe if your living space is mostly above ground; radon can move easily through different levels of a house.
- Basements and Crawl Spaces
By far the most common entry point. Cracks in the concrete floor or walls can allow radon to slip inside. - Foundations and Slab Floors
Even if your home doesn’t have a basement, radon can seep in through slab foundations, expansion joints, or gaps around plumbing. - Well Water
In rare cases, radon can dissolve in well water and be released into the air when you run your faucets or shower. This is less common but still possible in certain regions. - Concrete Block Walls
Porous block walls can let radon in more easily than solid concrete.
The variations from house to house can be significant. One home in a neighborhood might have high radon levels while the home next door tests low. That’s why individual testing is so critical.
Why Is Radon So Dangerous?
You might be asking: If radon is a natural gas, how harmful can it really be? The answer has to do with long-term exposure. When radon decays, it produces radioactive particles. Breathing in these particles over extended periods can damage the cells lining your lungs, increasing your risk of developing lung cancer. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the country, responsible for thousands of deaths annually.
People who smoke or have other risk factors for lung disease can be even more vulnerable. But even non-smokers can face serious health risks if they’re consistently exposed to elevated radon levels. Because you can’t see or smell radon, by the time you’re aware of a problem, it might already have been there for years.
How to Know If You Have Radon
Given that radon is invisible and odorless, the only reliable way to detect it is through testing. You have a couple of options:
- DIY Radon Test Kits
Over-the-counter radon test kits are available at many hardware stores. You typically place the test kit in the lowest livable area of your home for a specific period (often a few days to months, depending on the type of kit), then send the sample to a lab for analysis.- Pros: Affordable and user-friendly.
- Cons: Potential for user error, and results may not be as detailed or comprehensive as professional tests.
- Professional Radon Testing
Companies like EnviroPro 360 use specialized equipment to monitor radon levels over a set period, often several days. This method is more accurate and can provide continuous readings, highlighting any fluctuations.- Pros: Comprehensive data, professional interpretation of results, and recommendations for next steps.
- Cons: Higher initial cost, but usually well worth it for peace of mind.
If you’ve never tested your home—or if your last test was years ago—it’s a good idea to schedule a radon test as soon as possible. Seasonal changes, shifting in your foundation, and local construction can affect your home’s radon levels over time.
What Do Your Radon Test Results Mean?
Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The EPA recommends that you take action if your home tests at or above 4.0 pCi/L. Some health experts suggest considering mitigation steps if levels are above 2.0 pCi/L, particularly if there are other risk factors in your household.
- Below 2.0 pCi/L: Generally considered safe; retest periodically to ensure levels remain stable.
- 2.0–3.9 pCi/L: Consider mitigation steps, especially if family members have existing respiratory conditions or you just want an extra layer of protection.
- 4.0 pCi/L and Above: Definitely plan on mitigation. At these levels, the EPA strongly advises homeowners to address the issue sooner rather than later.
Radon Mitigation: How to Lower Radon Levels
If your test results indicate high radon levels, don’t panic. Modern radon mitigation methods are effective, straightforward, and can drastically reduce indoor radon. A typical mitigation system usually involves:
- Sub-Slab Depressurization
The most common method, this involves installing a vent pipe that runs from beneath your home’s slab or crawl space and exhausts radon-laden air outside. A fan in the vent pipe actively pulls radon up and out, preventing it from entering your living areas. - Sealing Cracks and Openings
While sealing alone won’t fix a high radon problem, it does help reduce the influx of radon and make your mitigation system work more efficiently. - Ventilation Improvements
In certain cases, improving the air circulation in your home—especially in basements—can help lower radon levels. This might include adding fans or vents in places where air becomes stagnant. - Post-Installation Testing
After any mitigation system is put in place, retesting is crucial to ensure the levels have dropped below the recommended threshold.
Why Call EnviroPro 360 for your radon inspection?
When dealing with something as elusive and potentially dangerous as radon, you want a team you can trust. Here’s how EnviroPro 360 stands out for homeowners in Augusta, Aiken, Evans, and the surrounding counties:
- Local Expertise
We understand the geographic and geological factors specific to Richmond, Aiken, and Columbia Counties. We take into account local soil composition and typical foundation styles to provide targeted solutions. - Detailed Radon Testing
We employ state-of-the-art equipment for continuous radon monitoring. Our professionals interpret the data accurately, giving you a clear picture of your home’s radon levels. - Customized Radon Mitigation Recommendations
Every home is unique. We tailor our approach—whether it’s sub-slab depressurization, crawl space solutions, or enhanced ventilation—based on your property’s specific needs. - Ongoing Support
We believe in long-term partnerships, not one-time fixes. After mitigation, we offer follow-up testing and advice on how to maintain low radon levels.
We treat your home as if it were our own, focusing on safety, thoroughness, and your peace of mind.
Health Implications of Ignoring Radon
It’s tempting to push radon testing down your to-do list—after all, there’s no smell or stain to remind you every day. But ignoring radon can lead to serious health risks:
- Increased Lung Cancer Risk
Long-term exposure to high radon levels significantly raises your chances of developing lung cancer. Even more so if someone in the household smokes. - Respiratory Issues
While radon’s immediate effects may not be as noticeable as mold-related allergies, some people experience unexplained respiratory discomfort or chronic coughing. - Financial and Emotional Costs
Mitigating high radon levels can be more complex if left unaddressed for too long. There’s also an emotional toll in knowing your home environment might be unsafe.
If you’re already experiencing any sort of respiratory symptoms or if cancer runs in your family, regular radon testing becomes even more crucial.
Proactive Steps You Can Take to Protect From Radon
Beyond testing and mitigation, there are several proactive steps homeowners can take to keep radon levels in check:
- Seal Foundation Cracks
Regularly inspect your foundation for new cracks, gaps, or openings. Address these immediately to reduce radon entry points. - Maintain Your Mitigation System
If you already have a radon mitigation system in place, check the fan or other components periodically. Listen for odd noises, and schedule professional maintenance if needed. - Monitor Airflow
Improve ventilation in damp areas like basements or crawl spaces. Consider installing ventilation fans if you notice stale air. - Stay Informed
Keep track of radon advisories or updates from local environmental agencies. Radon levels can fluctuate seasonally or with local construction and weather changes.
Final Thoughts: Take Action for a Safer Radon-Free Home
Radon may be invisible, but its effects are all too real. For residents in Augusta, Aiken, Evans, and CSRA, understanding radon’s risks and testing your home regularly are essential steps to ensure you and your family remain safe. If your radon levels turn out to be high, a professionally installed mitigation system can make a world of difference—often reducing radon to levels considered safe by the EPA.
When it comes to protecting what matters most, don’t settle for guesswork. Contact EnviroPro 360 for comprehensive radon testing and mitigation tailored to your home. Our goal is to arm you with the knowledge and resources you need so you can breathe easy—literally.
