Do you have questions about or do you need Radon Testing in NJ?
What is radon? Radon is an extremely toxic, colorless, odorless, radioactive gas. It comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils, rocks and water. Radon is a lung carcinogen that varies from one house to the next. The amount of radon that escapes from the soil that can enter the house depends on the weather, soil porosity, soil moisture and the suction within the house. Levels can vary widely, even from home to home in the same neighborhood.
Why should you choose to test to perform radon testing in NJ? Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, according to EPA estimates. Overall, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths every year. About 2,900 of these deaths occur among people who have never smoked. Smokers are at a higher risk of developing Radon-induced lung cancer. Radon exposure makes up for roughly 55% of the radiation that you will encounter throughout your life. Just like finding out the condition of the roof or HVAC, this is equally as important during your home inspection.
Alternatively, you may need it for something other than a real estate transaction. For peace of mind OR for state licensing. Either way, yes, we can do that too!
How does radon get into your home? All homes are at risk of radon exposure no matter the age of the home, well-sealed or drafty homes and homes with or without basements. Typically, it moves up through the ground to the air above and into the home through cracks and other holes within the foundation. Once it is inside, it can build up. The EPA estimates that roughly 6 million homes in the U.S. are currently exposed to radon measurements exceeding 4.0pCi/L which puts the occupants at a higher risk to developing lung cancer.
What levels are there of radon? The national indoor average for radon is 1.3 (pCi/L) in the USA. The national outdoor level is 0.4 pCi/L. Levels over 4 pCi/L or more are recommended to have mitigation systems, although, the EPA suggests that there is no known safe level of exposure. Homes that have a reading between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L should also consider mitigation.
How is radon testing in NJ conducted? Charcoal canisters are placed in compliance with governing guidelines in the lowest level suited for occupancy of the home for a minimum of 2 and maximum of 6 days. The charcoal canister is then retrieved and sent to a laboratory for analysis. During the time the test is conducted, normal coming and going through doors is acceptable, however, all other doors and windows should remain closed. Prior to the test, closed-house conditions should occur for at least 12 hours as well.
What if radon is found that requires mitigation? If radon is found, it’s fixable! There are options to decrease the level to a safe level, most commonly, radon mitigation fans and systems. Mitigation systems vary in cost and quality.
What if the home was previously tested and fell in the safe range? Tests should be conducted again if you have renovated or altered the home since it last was tested including the HVAC, it was not recently performed or if for example the buyer plans to live in a lower level of the house than was previously tested. Additionally, ensure the previous test was conducted by a certified measurement technician. At JLC Home Inspections LLC, we safeguard your family by performing tests in compliance with both state and national standards, adhering to tried and true methods which have stood the test of time. All of our test samples are sent to an accredited lab, the premier radon measurement company in New Jersey. Once the test samples have been thoroughly analyzed, the results, and our recommendations will be forwarded to you immediately. From there we can determine whether or not mitigation is necessary, but regardless of the outcome you can breathe a little easier knowing that you took the extra step to ensure your families safety.
Map of NJ: The map has been prepared by the NJ EPA to see if Radon is in your area. Although Ocean County has a lower likelihood, be advised, Radon IS present in Ocean County. We have tested numerous homes throughout Ocean County that DO require mitigation. Be advised Stafford, Barnegat and Little Egg Harbor are shaded orange- as a tier 2. Although you may be shaded yellow, radon DOES still exist in those areas.
Do you need radon testing performed for your facility?
No problem! Reach out! We handle larger scale radon testing across NJ as well. Whether you need it as part of a licensing of a daycare, assisted living facility, nursing home or something else, reach out to our experienced team today!