About 50% of homes in Colorado have high radon levels ... yikes.

Denver has become an increasingly popular city to live in ... probably something to do with the beautiful mountain ranges and sunshine. One thing homebuyers may not be aware of, however, is the radon levels. 

Our radon levels here in Denver are higher than what's ideal. In fact, about 50% of homes in Colorado have high radon levels. Denver is ranked as "Zone 1" for radon, which means it has the highest potential for radon. 

What Is Radon? What Are the Risks?

So, what exactly is radon? Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas, caused by uranium breaking down in the soil. It can enter buildings through cracks, holes, pipes, and even well water. Indoor air that has radon becomes a risk, as the radon particles can get trapped in your lungs, and ultimately, damage them. This can lead to an increased risk of lung cancer when inhaled over many years. While smokers are at a higher risk of lung cancer, anyone with long-term exposure to radon is at risk.

Talk to your doctor if you have concerns regarding radon and its health risks.

Testing for Radon

The scary thing is that radon can't be detected by smell or sight. The radon action level, as determined by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is 4.0pCi/L(picocuries per liter). But how do we test for this?

Testing for radon can be done in a few different ways. You can choose to test the radon levels yourself, or you can have a professional do it. Radon is most likely to exist below the third floor, so that is where you should test. Home inspections should offer radon testing, which you should take advantage of, but that is not always the case. It is important to know other options. So many added costs are involved in the homebuying process, but things like radon testing should not be neglected.

Both short-term and long-term radon tests are available. Radon testing kits can be found at home improvement stores, usually for $50 or under. However, make sure the test is from a "qualified" radon service professional—it should say so on the kit.

Short-term tests will take about 48-120 hours. The house must first have all of its doors and windows closed for 12 hours. Then, the radon kit is opened and left in the same place for 48 hours, minimum. It should be placed in a room that is used often. Places such as closets and bathrooms should not be used.

Long-term tests, on the other hand, can take 91 days to a year, and you will live as normal. 

Cleaning the Air

So, your home has high radon levels ... Let's examine the ways you can take care of that!

One of the best ways is with a sub-slab depressurization system. This can decrease the radon levels by up to 99%. In this case, PVC piping is installed through the slab floor, with a connected fan. The fan then uses a vacuum under the slab, and the vapors in the soil from underneath the building are then directed outside. Sub-membrane depressurization systems use a strong and waterproof membrane such as plastic sheeting, through which the ventilation is installed. The best way to deal with a radon problem is to hire a certified radon contractor to install some type of mitigation system. If you do not own the home, you should notify the owner of the radon levels, and they should fix it. 

Radon is prevalent in Colorado, and it is important to take steps to assess how it might be affecting your home, and in turn, your health.