Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas that can pose serious health risks when it accumulates in homes. It’s odorless, tasteless, and invisible, making it impossible to detect without specialized equipment. In areas like Lawrenceville, GA, where radon levels can vary significantly from home to home, having a professional radon inspection is a smart move, especially when buying or selling a house or checking the safety of your long-term residence.
Here’s what you can expect from a home inspection in Lawrenceville, Georgia, and why it’s an important part of maintaining a healthy home environment.
Why Radon Testing Matters
Radon is produced when uranium in soil, rock, and water breaks down and releases radioactive gas. It can seep into homes through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, or sump pumps. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., and it’s especially dangerous because people often don’t realize they’re being exposed.
Georgia, including Gwinnett County and the Lawrenceville area, has many zones with moderate to high radon potential. Because there’s no way to know a home’s radon level without testing, inspections are a key preventive step.
Step 1: Scheduling the Inspection
When you call a certified radon professional in Lawrenceville, they’ll schedule a convenient time to visit your property. It’s best to use a licensed, NRPP- or NRSB-certified technician to ensure the results are reliable and meet EPA standards.
You don’t need to prepare much ahead of time, but the inspector may give you a few instructions. For example, they may instruct you to keep windows and doors closed 12 hours before and during the test.
Step 2: The Testing Process
Most radon inspections involve a short-term test, which typically takes 48 hours. The inspector will place one or more electronic radon monitors or activated charcoal test kits in the lowest livable level of your home, often the basement or ground floor.
The placement is crucial: the monitor must be away from drafts, high-heat areas (like kitchens or fireplaces), and exterior walls to ensure accurate results. You’ll be asked to maintain “closed-house conditions” during the test, meaning windows and doors should remain closed except for normal entry and exit.
Step 3: Analyzing the Results
Once the 48-hour test is complete, the inspector will return to collect the device(s) and analyze the results. If they’re using a digital monitor, they may be able to provide results immediately. Charcoal-based kits are usually sent to a lab for analysis, with results available in a few days.
The EPA recommends action if radon levels are 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. However, even levels between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L can pose some risk, and many homeowners choose to mitigate at those levels for added safety.
Step 4: What Happens If Levels Are High?
If your home tests are above the EPA’s action level, don’t panic! Radon problems are fixable. A qualified mitigation contractor in Lawrenceville can install a radon reduction system, usually involving a vent pipe and fan system that safely removes radon from beneath your home and vents it outside.
Mitigation systems are generally non-invasive, energy-efficient, and can often be installed in a day. Your inspector may also offer recommendations or refer you to trusted local mitigators.
Cost and Time Expectations
In Lawrenceville, GA, the cost of a radon inspection typically ranges from $150 to $250, depending on the size of your home and the type of test used. The entire process, from scheduling to receiving results, usually takes about 3 to 5 days.
Hire Blueprint Home Inspection for our Radon Inspection Services in Lawrenceville, GA
A radon inspection in Lawrenceville is a smart, proactive step toward protecting your family’s health. With elevated radon levels posing a serious risk and being undetectable without proper testing, a professional inspection provides peace of mind, and if needed, a clear path to remediation.
Whether you’re buying a new home, selling, or just being cautious about indoor air quality, understanding and testing for radon is essential. Don’t guess. Just test it.
Making sure your Lawrenceville home is free from hazardous radon levels is a vital step in protecting the health and well-being of your household. By utilizing professional testing services, addressing any identified issues with mitigation systems, and committing to regular retesting, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with radon exposure. We definitely recommend that you take action today to create a safer living environment for you and your family. If you live in Lawrenceville, GA and you need a radon inspection, look no further! Call Blueprint Home Inspection to ensure your property is thoroughly examined by our experienced professionals. Our professional team is committed to providing detailed, accurate reports to help you make informed decisions. Don’t leave your home’s condition to chance. You can trust Blueprint Home Inspection for a comprehensive assessment and peace of mind. Contact us today to set up a radon inspection and safeguard your investment!