Facts About Radon

What it is

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, or water. It is measured in picoCuries per liter of air (pCi/L), a unit of measurement for radiation in a given volume of air. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established an "action level" of 4 pCi/L for radon. EPA believes that further action is warranted should any home exceed that level.

Where it is Found

Radon is found in all types of soil, from clay to sand to rich loam. Since it found in the soil, it can be a problem for any structure in contact with the ground. Radon does not discriminate; it can infiltrate any home whether large or small, new or old, drafty or well-insulated, basement or no basement.

Why it is a Problem

As it is radioactive, it has been linked to lung cancer and is the second leading cause of the disease, after smoking. If you smoke and have a radon problem in your house, you have a much higher risk of getting lung cancer as both problems act as a "multiplier." To make matters worse, there is no warning symptoms. Radon does not cause headaches, flu, colds, etc.

It is a Common Problem in Johnson County

Radon is very common in Johnson County, and the surrounding area as well. On EPA's map of radon zones, the Kansas City area, including Johnson County, and nearly all of northern and western Kansas, is located in Zone 1 which has the highest potential for a predicted average indoor radon screening level greater than 4 pCi/L. Based on the number of tests performed, about 40% of the homes in the Johnson County have levels of radon that exceed the EPA action level. Real estate sales are the primary driving force for radon tests. As a result, there have been thousands of tests conducted in the county. According to local real estate agents, radon tests are conducted in 60-70% of all residential transactions and are just a part of the usual home inspection conducted by the buyer. While a real estate transaction may be the common reason, EPA advises that ALL homes should test for radon. The highest confirmed radon reading in Johnson County to date is about 137 pCi/L.

How to Find Out if You Have a Problem

Testing is the only way to determine the existence of radon in any particular home. You can hire a contractor to test your home or you can do it yourself. Find more information about both of these options on this site. There is no way to test a vacant lot for radon prior to new construction. The house must be in place before a valid radon test can be performed.

What to Do if You Have a Problem

You will need to hire a contractor to mitigate the radon problem. Mitigation costs in the Johnson County area to an existing home are reported to be in the $100-$800 range, depending on the level of radon in the home and the correction techniques used. Find more information on licensed contractors in the state of Kansas and tips on selecting the right one for you on this site.

Wendell says: "We've given you the facts. Now, let's debunk some common myths!"