Colorado Springs and El Paso and surrounding counties are “Zone 1” test results for the likelihood of radon gas levels above 4 pCi/L (picoCuries/Liter), the federal standard safety threshold for human radiation exposure. That means that yes, radon mitigation is necessary and is smart for the long term health of your family and potential resale of your property. The Environmental Protection Agency strongly suggests mitigation for any building testing at levels above 2 pCi/L for health reasons. Radon mitigation Colorado Springs CO knows is necessary, and as long as done in an effective manner it can significantly reduce the likelihood of exposure to radon, a colorless, tasteless gas that breaks down into particles in the human lungs and exposes you to radiation. That radioactivity over a period of time increases your chances of developing lung cancer, and becomes a worse risk factor if you or anyone in the home smokes.
Colorado Springs radon mitigation done correctly does not send red flags to potential home buyers, on the contrary, test results and the form of mitigation on the property are now standard questions during a real estate transaction. Since radon occurs due to subterranean breakdown of uranium and radium, and much of Colorado soil contains those naturally, it literally is everywhere. While being proactive in advance can help diminish the problem in new home construction, it is myth that radon only occurs in new, older, homes with a basement, or those with concrete pads. Radon can test at levels requiring mitigation in any type of building construction of any age. Each individual property stands independent as to its potential for having a radon challenge, and should be tested and mitigated regardless of how your neighbor’s home did on a test.
To truly know the potential hazard to your family, you need a qualified radon professional to test for the levels on your property. Depending on your needs, a short term (no time to wait) or long term test (90 days of exposure) needs conducted, as well as generally a second test to verify the results. Retesting should happen after mitigation, and on a periodic basis. If you decide to utilize different areas of your property, testing the newly occupied space is a good investment.