Radon Mitigation: Keeping Safe in Radon-Contaminated Areas

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Residential and commercial real estate Radon Testing Fort Collins CO investors find the Environmental Quality Initiative (EQI) a wonderful way to minimize the costs of radon mitigation in Longmont CO. "There is a strong correlation between radon and home value," said Cavanaugh.

One can either remove radon or one can take steps to decrease its level. Radon is dangerous and can cause lung cancer, bone disease, kidney disease, and the growth of blood clots. Today, many homes are equipped with radon mitigation systems that will detect the presence of the gas, alert you, and provide information on how to reduce exposure.

As for those who do not have a mitigation system in place, one can either excavate the basement or install an airtight seal around the home. In some cases, installing an airtight seal may be cost-prohibitive, or there may be no means to control the atmosphere. Homeowners who choose to excavate the basement can do so either by using traditional footings or by using a system that fills the room with rock.

Both methods offer similar benefits for a real estate investor, although the latter method may be a more viable choice. Most real estate investors prefer the latter option as the earth can be excavated at a reasonable cost.

Once the foundation is done, removing the soil will allow the earth to settle, and this can reduce the amount of "sinking" that happens in the basement, allowing less water and air to enter the home. The net result is increased energy efficiency, which is a benefit for those who want to move into a lower-priced home, especially if they have invested in improvements that allow them to retain some of their home's resale value.

Excavating the basement can also decrease the noise level in the basement, while sealing it will prevent water from seeping into the basement. This reduces the level of radon that would otherwise end up in the basement.

Some homeowners, though, prefer to excavate and install the seal instead of sealing the basement. This can be because of the expense involved in purchasing a system, as well as the added comfort of a sealed basement.

After a mitigation system is installed, regular inspection will help determine whether there is a need to excavate the basement. An airtight seal will be needed after winter, as well as when it gets too hot. When one is excavating, one can add a water heater, if the home does not already have one.

Even after mitigation, many homes must be surveyed to determine whether or not radon mitigation system is still necessary. Based on the survey results, owners may choose to construct the basement off the soil or complete room-by-room remediation.

Many people do not have the proper knowledge to determine if their home has a problem. In order to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended that a real estate professional inspect homes in your area to find out if a mitigation system is necessary.

Mitigation is beneficial, but without an airtight seal, radon levels will still escape. The best way to ensure that one is getting a good deal is to hire a qualified agent who understands the importance of keeping a level of radon that is below the EPA standards.

The most important thing for the new homeowner to understand is that radon mitigation in Colorado is important, but without a mitigation system, the danger increases. Educating oneself on radon mitigation is the best way to protect themselves, their family, and their home.