Radon is an invisible, odorless radioactive gas that can accumulate in homes without any obvious warning signs. Because it cannot be seen or smelled, the only reliable way to detect radon is through professional testing.
In the Spokane area, radon testing is often recommended for homes with basements or living space below ground level. Testing helps homeowners and buyers understand whether radon levels inside the home are within safe limits.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. As radon gas forms underground, it can move upward through the soil and enter buildings through openings in the foundation.
Radon can enter a home through:
• Foundation cracks
• Gaps around pipes
• Crawlspaces
• Floor drains
• Construction joints
Because radon gas moves through soil, it can accumulate in enclosed indoor spaces such as basements and lower levels of homes.
Radon exposure is a long-term health concern. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and the leading cause among non-smokers.
Because radon has no smell or visible presence, many homeowners are unaware of elevated levels inside their homes.
Testing provides the only reliable way to determine whether radon levels exceed recommended limits.
Radon levels vary depending on local soil conditions and the construction of a home. In Spokane and the Inland Northwest, certain geological conditions can allow radon gas to move more easily through soil and into buildings.
Homes with the following characteristics may have a higher likelihood of radon accumulation:
• Basements or daylight basements
• Crawlspaces
• Slab-on-grade foundations
• Homes built on porous soils or rock
Because radon levels can vary significantly even between neighboring homes, testing is recommended rather than assuming levels are safe.
Professional radon testing uses specialized monitoring equipment to measure radon levels inside the home over a specific period of time.
A radon monitor is typically placed in the lowest livable area of the home and left in place for a set testing period. The device records radon levels in the air and provides accurate measurement results.
This type of professional equipment provides reliable readings used to evaluate whether radon levels exceed recommended safety thresholds.
If elevated radon levels are detected, mitigation systems can often reduce radon concentrations inside the home.
Radon mitigation typically involves installing a ventilation system that safely redirects radon gas from beneath the home to the outside air.
These systems are commonly installed by radon mitigation specialists and are highly effective at reducing radon levels.
Many Spokane homebuyers choose to include radon testing as part of their inspection process. Testing during a real estate transaction provides buyers with important information about the home’s indoor air quality.
If elevated radon levels are detected, buyers and sellers may choose to address the issue during negotiations or after closing.
Because radon cannot be detected without testing, including a radon test during the home buying process provides an additional layer of protection for buyers.
Zero Doubt Home Inspection provides professional radon testing services throughout Spokane and the surrounding Inland Northwest. Our testing equipment measures radon levels accurately so buyers and homeowners can better understand the indoor air quality of their home.
If you would like to schedule radon testing or learn more about the process, we are happy to help.