What is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring, colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that forms from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. While it may sound like a topic for a high school chemistry class, radon is very real and can pose significant health risks to you and your family. The gas is released from the ground and can seep into homes through cracks in the foundation, construction joints, or gaps around pipes, becoming a silent health hazard. Once inside, radon can accumulate to dangerous levels.

Why Should Georgia Residents Care About Radon?

While radon is a concern across the United States, Georgia’s geology makes it particularly relevant here. Radon is most commonly found in areas with high concentrations of granite and other uranium-rich rocks, and Georgia’s soil composition includes these elements in abundance.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies radon levels based on their potential to exceed the safe threshold of 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter). While not every home in Georgia is at risk, the EPA has identified many parts of the state as zones with moderate to high radon potential, particularly our service area of Fayette, Coweta, and Fulton counties and the greater Atlanta area. Testing is the only way to know your home’s radon level, as human senses cannot detect the gas.

Radon in Georgia Homes: What You Need to Know

It’s a common misconception that elevated radon levels are only in old homes with basements. The truth is that radon can be found in any type of home—new or old, with or without basements, regardless of whether you live in a rural or urban area. Homes with crawl spaces, basements, or slab-on-grade foundations all have entry points where radon gas can seep inside. Even well-sealed homes can have radon issues, as barriers like paint or insulation do not deter the gas. 

Why is Radon Dangerous?

Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, second only to smoking. According to the EPA, radon is responsible for approximately 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually in the U.S. Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels increases your risk of developing lung cancer, making it a silent but deadly intruder in your home. Radon has also been linked to stroke, heart attack, and leukemia. 

Why Testing for Radon is Essential

Testing is the only way to determine if your home has elevated radon levels.  

Professional Radon Testing: Pinewood Inspections offers professional radon testing services with accurate results, ensuring homeowners’ peace of mind. Our testing is affordable and straightforward. Our accurate digital radon detectors provide a reliable radon level reading after 48 hours of continuous monitoring. 

When to Test: It is recommended that you test your home for radon every two years, after major renovations, or if you’re buying or selling a home. Testing is particularly important during the cooler months, when homes are sealed more tightly, and radon levels can rise.

What to Do If Your Home Has Elevated Radon Levels

If your test results show radon levels of 4 pCi/L or higher, the EPA recommends taking action to reduce the concentration. The good news is that radon mitigation is a straightforward process. Professionals can install a radon reduction system, such as a sub-slab depressurization system, which vents the radon gas outside before it can accumulate indoors. Radon mitigation systems are highly effective and can lower levels by up to 99%, ensuring your home is safe for you and your family. The cost of mitigation varies (often between $1500 and $2500), but it is a worthwhile investment in your health and property value.

Protect Your Family’s Health Today

Whether you’re a homeowner in Fayetteville, a prospective buyer in Peachtree City, or a resident of Atlanta, contact Pinewood Inspections today to schedule your radon test. Call us at 770-767-1967. Together, we can ensure your home is a safe and healthy place for your family.