
So, you have finally found the home of your dreams. It is indeed a big investment! You spend your savings of years to own a building you will call your humble abode. Everything looks rosy except one thing, i.e., the radon present indoors. You have heard about potential radon dangers, and don’t want to compromise with your and your loved ones’ health. But this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker. You can install a radon mitigation system and safeguard your life. What else do you need to know before taking the plunge?
Here, we’ll discuss some more important things you need to consider before buying a home with radon-
Know What Radon Is
First and foremost, you need to know what radon is, and how it can impact your lives. Radon is a radioactive gas that is found naturally. Just because there is radon inside home, it doesn’t mean that there is a problem with the home. Radon could seep into any home, and can’t be detected unless a radon test is performed. Still, many homeowners simply ignore conducting a radon detection test. However, it is something you should take seriously. Given that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, no one wants it in the home they are buying.
Understand The Value Of Home Inspection For Radon
Home inspectors test homes for radon gas exposure, lead, asbestos, or mold, along with their standard services. When you are buying a home, it is wise to conduct some extra inspections to save yourself from unexpected surprises later.
Generally, radon tests in real estate involve electronic radon tests. Besides, there are DIY radon test kits that one can use easily to get accurate results of radon levels present inside the home. However, make sure to buy these test kits from professionals. Or, look for professional radon mitigation service providers who follow proper procedures to test a building for radon.
Install A Radon Mitigation System
If the home is tested positive for radon, it is important to install a robust radon mitigation system. You will find a variety of radon mitigation systems, and all are different when it comes to cost-effectiveness.
Generally, the price varies from a few hundreds to a thousand dollars. Don’t leave the purchase and installation process of a radon mitigation system up to a home seller; you may end up finding a cheap, ineffective system. Instead, talk to experts to walk you through the entire process and have peace of mind that you are in safe hands.
Pick The Right Radon Mitigation System For Your Home
As already discussed, rather than counting on the home seller to install a system, consider getting estimates from different sources to get an idea of the cost. This way, you will also get to determine the right type of system for your home.
You can pick from three types of radon mitigation systems, i.e., active suction, passive suction, and sub-membrane system. An active suction system has an electric fan to remove radon gas, whereas passive suction uses vents to remove radon without utilizing power.
Furthermore, a sub-membrane system uses a plastic sheet to prevent radon gas from entering the house. Radon mitigation service providers can advise you on the right type of system to pick for your home.
Note That Radon Can’t Be Removed Permanently
You may be concerned if you find a house that is tested positive for radon. But, don’t call off the idea of buying a home with radon exposure if you really liked it. With a radon mitigation system, it is possible to reduce even high levels of radon to an acceptable level. A mitigation system needs to be running all the time to decrease radon exposure, though.
So, these are some of the things you should keep in mind before buying a home with radon.