Understanding Radon Gas
Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas produced naturally as uranium decays in soil and rock. It can seep through cracks or openings in a home’s foundation, accumulating indoors over time. Because it has no smell or taste, the only way to detect radon is through professional testing. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States — and the leading cause among non-smokers.
Annual Long-Term Radon Monitoring
While a short-term test shows what’s happening now, long-term monitoring gives you continuous insight. The EPA recommends testing every two years, since levels naturally fluctuate due to soil shifts, foundation settling, seasonal temperature changes, and ventilation differences. Our Annual Long-Term Monitoring uses real-time, continuous sensors that record 24-hour averages and provide monthly trend reports.
| Feature |
Short-Term Testing |
Long-Term Monitoring |
| Duration |
2–7 days |
Months to 1 year |
| Accuracy |
Snapshot of current levels |
Tracks seasonal and long-term changes |
| Purpose |
Initial screening |
Ongoing health protection |
| Reports |
One-time reading |
Monthly trend reports |
| Best For |
Home sale, quick check |
Annual home health monitoring |
Pricing & Options
Short-Term Radon Testing
Est. $200 – $250
- With Home Inspection: $200
- Standalone Service: $250
Each test includes our 90-Day Radon Warranty at no additional cost, providing added confidence in your results.
Long-Term Radon Monitoring
Starting at $400
- 90+ days of continuous monitoring
- Professional device installation & retrieval
- Monthly digital trend reports
Results reflect average radon levels over time, providing a much more accurate picture of potential exposure.
Pricing disclosure: Pricing may vary based on location, travel distance, and device availability. Final pricing is calculated and confirmed securely through Spectora.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is radon gas, and why is testing important? +
Radon is a naturally occurring, colorless, and odorless radioactive gas produced from the decay of uranium in soil and rock. It can seep into homes through foundation cracks or openings and accumulate to unsafe levels. The EPA identifies radon as the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., making regular testing a crucial part of maintaining indoor air safety.
How does radon enter my home? +
Radon gas travels upward from the ground and enters homes through cracks in foundations or basement floors, gaps around pipes, sump pumps, or drains, crawl spaces, construction joints, and well water. Even airtight or newly constructed homes can experience high radon levels.
What are safe radon levels? +
The EPA action level for radon is 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Homes with levels above this threshold should take corrective action, such as installing a radon mitigation system. However, even lower concentrations (2–4 pCi/L) can pose health risks over time, so monitoring and mitigation are strongly recommended.
How is a radon test performed? +
Our testing process follows EPA-approved protocols. A certified inspector places a continuous monitoring device in the lowest livable area. Over 48 hours, the device measures fluctuating radon levels under normal living conditions. Data are analyzed to determine your home’s average radon concentration, and you receive a detailed digital report.
How much does a radon test cost? +
A short-term radon test is $200 when bundled with a home inspection, or $250 as a standalone service. Every radon inspection includes a 90-Day Radon Warranty at no additional cost.
How long does it take to get results? +
Most short-term radon tests take 48 hours to complete, and results are typically available within 24 hours after retrieval and analysis. You’ll receive a full digital report with actionable recommendations.
What if my radon levels are high? +
If testing reveals elevated levels, our inspectors will explain your results, recommend contacting a certified radon mitigation specialist to install a ventilation system, and provide re-testing options to verify that mitigation successfully reduces radon levels below the EPA threshold.
What’s the difference between short-term and long-term radon testing? +
Short-term testing (2-7 days) provides an accurate snapshot of current levels, ideal for home sales or initial checks. Long-term monitoring (months to 1 year) tracks seasonal trends and provides continuous protection and ongoing health awareness.
Do I need long-term radon monitoring? +
Yes — the EPA recommends testing every two years, as radon levels fluctuate with seasonal and structural changes. Our Long-Term Radon Monitoring Service provides continuous data, monthly reporting, and professional calibration to ensure ongoing air safety and peace of mind.
Scheduling note: Scheduling, agreements, and payment are completed securely in
Spectora.
Inspections are paid in advance unless a pay-at-closing agreement is in place.