Radon Testing
Radon Testing in Northwest & Central Oregon
Keeping your home safe means understanding the threats you can’t see. One of the most dangerous—and often overlooked—home hazards is radon gas. Radon is invisible, odorless, and tasteless, but long-term exposure can lead to serious health risks. At Oregon NW Home Inspection, we offer accurate and reliable Radon Testing to help you protect your family and make informed decisions about your property.
Serving homeowners across Northwest & Central Oregon, our certified inspectors use advanced equipment and follow EPA-recommended testing methods to ensure you receive dependable results.
What Is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil, rock, and water breaks down. It enters homes through cracks in the foundation, gaps in flooring, and openings around pipes or wiring.
Because radon has no smell or color, the only way to know your home’s radon level is through proper testing.
Why Radon Matters:
- Radon is the
second leading cause of lung cancer
in the United States.
- It claims over
21,000 lives each year, according to the EPA.
- Homes of
all ages and sizes
can have high radon levels.
- Radon levels vary widely even between neighboring houses.
In many areas of Oregon, radon levels are known to be elevated, making testing essential for homeowners and homebuyers.
Why Radon Testing Is Important
Radon exposure doesn’t cause immediate symptoms, which is why many homeowners don’t realize there is a problem until it becomes serious. Testing early allows you to take action before long-term health risks develop.
Radon Testing Helps You:
- Protect your family’s health
- Identify hidden risks in new or existing homes
- Make informed decisions before buying a property
- Meet real estate transaction requirements
- Understand long-term exposure levels
Radon testing is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure a healthy indoor environment.
How Our Radon Testing Works
At Oregon NW Home Inspection, we use high-quality, professional-grade monitors to provide accurate and reliable radon results. Our process follows EPA standards and is designed to give you clear, trustworthy information.
Our Radon Testing Process Includes:
1. Placement of Radon Monitor
We place a radon testing device in the lowest livable area of the home, usually a basement or ground-level room. This location offers the most accurate reading of radon entering the home.
2. Closed-House Conditions
During the 48-hour testing period, we ask that windows remain closed and doors are opened only for normal entry and exit. These conditions ensure an accurate measurement.
3. Continuous Monitoring
Our professional radon monitor measures radon levels each hour for two days. This provides a detailed breakdown of fluctuations and average exposure.
4. Accurate Results & Full Report
After the testing period, we retrieve the monitor and generate a report that clearly explains:
- Hourly radon levels
- Average radon reading
- EPA action level comparison
- Recommendations if mitigation is needed
Our reports are easy to read and perfect for real estate transactions or long-term planning.
What If Your Home Has High Radon Levels?
The EPA recommends taking action if radon levels measure 4.0 pCi/L or higher. However, even lower levels may pose risks over time.
If elevated levels are found, we will:
- Explain the results clearly
- Discuss your mitigation options
- Recommend qualified radon mitigation professionals
- Answer any questions about long-term risks
Radon mitigation systems can significantly reduce radon levels and improve home safety.
When Should You Test for Radon?
Radon testing is recommended:
- Before buying a home
- Before selling a home
- Every two years in an existing home
- After major renovations or foundation changes
- If your neighbor reports high levels
- If your home has never been tested
Even if your home tested low in the past, radon levels can change over time due to weather conditions, soil moisture, ventilation changes, or home modifications.
Why Choose Oregon NW Home Inspection for Radon Testing?
Choosing the right inspector ensures you get accurate, reliable results. At Oregon NW Home Inspection, we pride ourselves on delivering professional and trustworthy testing services.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Certified radon testing professionals
- Professional continuous radon monitors
- Accurate, fast, and dependable results
- Clear, easy-to-understand reports
- Friendly communication and support
- Experience with NW Oregon’s radon-prone areas
We are committed to keeping your home safe and your family protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a dangerous radon level?
The EPA recommends taking action if levels reach 4.0 pCi/L or higher. Lower levels can still pose risks over time.
Can I live in my home during testing?
Yes. You can remain in your home as usual, but you must keep windows closed and exterior doors opened only when needed.
Do all homes in Oregon need radon testing?
Yes. Radon levels vary widely, even between homes on the same street. Testing is the only way to know your home’s level.
How often should I retest my home?
The EPA recommends retesting every two years, or after major home changes or renovations.
Is radon more common in basements?
Radon enters through the foundation, so basements and lower levels often have higher readings.
What if my home doesn’t have a basement?
Slab-on-grade and crawlspace homes can also have high radon levels. Testing is still essential.
Schedule Your Radon Test Today
Radon is a silent danger, but it’s one you can control with proper testing and mitigation. Whether you’re buying a home, selling a property, or ensuring long-term safety for your family, Oregon NW Home Inspection is here to help.
Contact us today to schedule professional Radon Testing or learn more about our home inspection services.
