Frequently Asked Questions

What is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium, thorium, or radium, which are radioactive metals break down in rocks, soil and groundwater. People can be exposed to radon primarily from breathing radon in air that comes through cracks and gaps in buildings and homes.

Is Radon dangerous?

Radon is naturally in the atmosphere in trace amounts. Outdoors, radon disperses rapidly and, generally, is not a health issue.

Most radon exposure occurs inside homes, schools and workplaces. Radon gas becomes trapped indoors after it enters buildings through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Indoor radon can be controlled and managed with proven, cost-effective techniques.

My home tested with elevated Radon, now what?

All homes can be successfully remediated with the installation of a radon mitigation system. Environmental Testing Inc. can dramatically reduce the levels of radon gas in your home within a single day.

We are also willing to consult on a custom solution for your needs and budget.

What is a dangerous level of Radon gas?

The average radon concentration found in outside air is 0.5 pCi/L. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) recommends mitigation when indoor concentrations reach or exceed 4 pCi/L. Homes in the northern U.S. and Colorado often test at levels of 8-26 pCi/L or higher.

What does pCi/L mean?

A pCi or “picocurie” is a measure of the rate of radioactive decay of radon. One pCi is one-trillionth of a Curie, 0.037 disintegrations per second, or 2.22 disintegrations per minute. So, pCi/L means picocuries per liter.

How long does it take to test for Radon?

A basic home radon test can be completed in 48 hours. Before testing the home should be closed up with no open doors or windows for at least 12 hours. Normal entry and exit are okay. Schedule a test with us today!

How did Radon get into my home?

Radon can enter the home through cracks in solid floors, construction joints, cracks in walls, gaps in suspended floors, gaps around the service pipes, cavities inside walls, and on some occasions through the water supply.

For more information, check out the EPA’s Citizen’s Guide to Radon.

What does a Radon Mitigation System look like?

A radon system is composed of a vapor barrier to seal off incoming gases and a vacuum system to redirect those gases safely outside. Our systems are quiet, discreet and custom painted to blend in with your home.

Please see our Gallery for examples of our past work. These include the external and internal systems of your home.

How much do Radon Mitigation Systems cost?

Price varies based on time, difficulty, and distance. Estimates are provided in our Radon Mitigation Proposals.

How long does Radon Mitigation System installation take?

Most installations can be completed in as little as 5-8 hours. More comprehensive projects may require a few day’s work. Duration depends on several factors, such as square footage, radon levels, and accessibility. The estimated time to complete is included in our proposals.

What is the cost of a proposal?

We provide Radon Mitigation Proposals free of charge.

Do you work on commercial properties?

Yes! Environmental Testing Inc. does it all. Not only do we work on private residences, but past projects have included offices, clinics, schools, and government buildings.

High radon levels are jeopardizing the sale of a home sale. Can you help?

Yes! We understand the urgent need for results at such a critical time. We offer priority services to those involved in the purchase or sale of a home to keep your closing on track against a tight deadline.

How often should I test for radon?

You can test for radon continuously, however, we recommend it at least once a year.

Can I purchase a test device from you?

Absolutely. Please see our Store to complete an order.

We also provide affiliate sales through Ecosense, use westernradon as a discount code.

Where do you operate?

We are based in Montrose, Colorado and travel all over the Western Slope. Most projects are in the Telluride and Montrose areas, but we also have projects in Aspen, Grand Junction, Gunnison, Hotchkiss, Lake City, Paonia, and the surrounding areas.

Please contact us for any inquiries.

*How are you going to protect my family from COVID-19 while working in our home?

We understand your concerns and follow the latest state and county guidelines. While working, we often use air extraction fans to bring fresh air into the home and sanitize common surfaces, in addition to wearing masks. Most of the work is outside and in the crawlspace or basement.