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FAQs

 

What is Radon?

Why is Radon a concern?

How do we test for Radon?

What do my results mean?

How can we fix the house?

How much does radon mitigation cost?

Where can I get more information?

 

What is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that enters homes from the soil beneath them.  Radon is created in the soils where uranium and radium are found.  Uranium breaks down to radium, which in turn decays into radon gas.  These elements can be found anywhere in the world.  Therefore, any building regardless of age has the potential for elevated radon levels. Return to top.

 

Why is Radon a concern?

Radon decays into radioactive particles known as radon decay products.  These particles are easily inhaled and deposited in the lungs where they can damage sensitive lung tissue.

 

Radon is a known Class A carcinogen and is the second leading cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking.  Recent studies by the National Research Council concluded that approximately 18,260 people contract lung cancer each year in the United States from exposure to indoor radon.  Return to top.

 

How do we test for Radon?

RKC Inspections uses continuous radon monitors.  We are required to test each of the lowest livable levels in the household.  The monitor remains in the home for a minimum of 48 hours. Once the monitor is in place, we utilize a number of anti-tampering techniques so that the test results accurately reflect the current levels of radon.  If you're buying a home, click hereIf you are a homeowner concerned about the home you currently live in, click here

 

Along with the radon level, the monitor records temperature, relative humidity, barometric pressure, and whether the monitor has been moved.

 

Once we retrieve the monitor, the results are available immediately.  A professional four to five page report is then produced. Return to top.

 

What do my results mean?

Our monitors measure radon continuously over the test period.  The final results are reported in picoCuries per liter (pCi/L).  If the final average results is greater than or equal to 4 pCi/L, we recommend consultation with a Radon Mitigation Professional.  Return to top.

 

How can we fix the house?

Homes with elevated radon levels can be reliably reduced to less than 4 pCI/L.  A radon mitigation system collects radon prior to entry into the house and discharges it to a safe location.  Return to top.

 

How much does radon mitigation cost?

The cost of a radon reduction system generally ranges from $800 - $3500, depending on the characteristics of the house and the choice of radon reduction methods.  An IEMA licensed mitigation contractor can install most systems in one day.  The system takes 24 hours to take effect before retesting can occur.  Post-mitigation tests are important evaluators of actual system function.  State law prohibits mitigation professionals from performing radon measurements at a residence where they have installed a mitigation system.  Return to top.

 

Where can I get more information?

There are many sources for additional information.  Please see the links in the info box on this page for helpful resources that explore the issue of radon more thoroughly.  Return to top.

 

 

For More Information:

 

RKC Inspections
630-373-4229

 

Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA), Division of Nuclear Safety (IDNS)
800-325-1245

www.state.il.us/iema

 

Environmental Protection Agency

www.epa.gov/radon

 

American Association of Radon Scientists & Technologists

www.aarst.org

 

Cancer Survivors Against Radon

www.cansar.org

 

American Lung Association

www.lungusa.org

 

Radon Map of Illinois

www.epa.gov/iaq/radon/
zonemap/illinois.htm

  

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