The Drought and Radon Gas

Yes, the drought continues to plague us here in the Midwest. Now, deadly radon gas is finding new ways to get into your home. You can't smell it, you can't see it, but for about three out every five homes tested in our area, it's there and at dangerous levels. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment now recommends that you test your home's radon gas level every two years. And it's particularly important to do when you're buying a new property.

Radon is a naturally existing radioactive gas found underground. Due to the extended drought we've experienced, the ground has been moving, shrinking, and cracking around and under your home's foundation. That opens up new pathways for radon gas to escape the soil. And, the movement of the earth can cause new cracks to form in your foundation, which opens up new pathways for radon to then get into your home.

Keep in mind that since things have changed during the drought, "we had it tested a few years ago and it was fine" just doesn't apply anymore. In Kansas, your home must be tested by a certified radon tester. Missouri has no certification program as of yet, but it simply makes sense to have a trained professional handle your test for you.

I'm a Kansas certified radon tester and have been certified by the NRPP (National Radon Proficiency Program) for years. Complete Home Inspection uses a continuous radon monitor that takes samples over a period of two full days. The test unit is placed in the lowest livable level of the house. Windows are kept closed throughout the time of the test.  The test results are then averaged into an overall number for your final report. If the radon level is higher than 4.0piC/l, then it should be fixed, or "mitigated". Inexpensive do-it-yourself test kits are not what you want to rely on when it comes to your family's health and well-being. Instead, rely on the knowledge and competence of a certified radon tester.

Whole house inspections, condo inspections, radon testing, mold testing, and more, we do it all for you. Call or E-mail today to schedule your Complete Home Inspection, 913-268-0222, www.completehomeinspectionkc.com.