Radon Test- how high is too high?

sunnymel

I just got the radon report back on our new house and the average level over 2 days was 3.6pCi/l- the EPA recommends that if anything over 4.0pCi/l be mitigated, but when I look at the hourly levels over the 2 days, it went as high as 5.8pCi/l. DH is doing some research about it, but I thought I'd also ask you ladies. I am worried that while the average isn't over 4.0pCi/l, with 2 children in the house (hopefully 3 soon), is that still too high? Thoughts?

TIA!

Mel

PUBoilerBride

Take this for what it is worth since I used to do environmental investigations and I am paranoid because of it. I would look into the cost of mitigation just in case and for piece of mind. What is the level of error on the test?

I'm used to do water/soil so my experience with air contamination is minimal. I probably have so personal contamination that I'd hate to see what I am passing on to future children

sunnymel

They didn't give me the level of error and only gave me the variance for temp, barometric pressure and humidity. I'm going to call the specialist and chat with him about it and get more info.

Thanks!

Mel

earthmuffin

I work in public health obviously and while I am not an expert there are obviously significant health impacts associated with radon. That said, I tend on the side of caution, paranoia, whatever you want to call it. If I were you I would definatly talk with someone about mitigation. Not only will it improve you and your families health in the long and short term and  will assist with resale of your home later down the road.. its scary stuff but it can be fixed.

amfurore

You should ask your seller to pay for mitigation.  Ours did.  Once radon is found they have to disclose ir, so you're reaaly in the drivers seat.  I think I remember the guy saying you want it under 2 if possible.  I know it's usually higher if it rains a lot, but you still should look at requsting mitigation.