Protect Your Home with Radon Testing from Dor-Mar
Radon is an invisible, odorless gas that can seep into homes from the soil. Long-term exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Testing for radon is the only way to know if your home has dangerous levels. But is a DIY radon test enough, or should you invest in a professional test? Let’s break down the costs, risks, and best options for protecting your family.
What Is Radon and Why Should You Care?
Understanding Radon Gas
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms as uranium in soil breaks down. It enters homes through cracks in foundations, crawl spaces, and basements. Because radon is invisible and odorless, homeowners are often unaware of its presence until they test for it.
Health Risks of Radon Exposure
Prolonged radon exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, with the EPA estimating about 21,000 deaths per year linked to radon. Smokers exposed to radon face an even greater risk. Since radon levels can vary even between neighboring homes, regular testing is essential.
DIY Radon Testing vs. Professional Testing
Cost Comparison
DIY radon test kits are available for $10–$50, but many require additional lab fees of $30–$40. This means your total cost could be around $40–$90 for a single test.
Professional radon testing offers greater accuracy and peace of mind. Dor-Mar charges $300 for a professional radon test, but if you are a member of our $17.99/month Home Comfort Membership, the test is completely free.
Accuracy and Reliability
DIY test results can be unreliable if the test isn’t placed correctly or if environmental factors interfere. Professional tests use continuous monitoring devices, measuring radon over a set period for highly accurate readings.
When a Professional Test Is Necessary
While a DIY test can be a good screening tool, professional testing is the best choice if:
- You’re buying or selling a home
- Your DIY test shows levels near or above 4.0 pCi/L (the EPA action level)
- You have a basement or crawl space, where radon tends to accumulate
Breaking Down the Costs of Radon Testing
DIY Radon Test Kit Costs
- Short-term kits (2–7 days): $10–$40
- Long-term kits (90+ days): $25–$80
- Digital radon monitors (continuous reading): $100+
DIY kits can be cost-effective, but they carry a risk of inaccurate results due to placement issues, testing conditions, and potential user error. In addition, there is a time delay for results because you send your test kit to a lab for evaluation.
Professional Radon Testing Costs
A professional radon test from Dor-Mar costs $300, but it’s free for Home Comfort Membership members. Our experts provide precise results and guidance on what steps to take if radon levels are high.
Can You Trust DIY Radon Test Kits?
Common Mistakes with DIY Radon Tests
Many homeowners unknowingly make mistakes when using DIY radon test kits, such as:
- Placing the test near windows, vents, or fans
- Testing during extreme weather conditions
- Moving or disturbing the test before the required time frame
How to Improve DIY Test Accuracy
To get the most reliable DIY test results:
- Place the test in the lowest livable area of your home
- Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible during testing
- Follow all instructions, including promptly mailing the test to the lab
What to Do If Your Home Has High Radon Levels
Steps to Lower Radon in Your Home
If your radon levels are above the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L, consider taking these steps:
- Improve ventilation in basements and crawl spaces
- Seal cracks in floors and walls
- Install a radon mitigation system
Hiring a Radon Mitigation Professional
Radon mitigation specialists can install ventilation systems that safely redirect radon gas outside. Depending on the complexity of the system, costs range from $800 to $2,500. Dor-Mar provides expert radon mitigation solutions to keep your home safe.
Wrap-Up: Is DIY Radon Testing Worth the Risk?
DIY radon testing can be a useful first step, but the accuracy of these tests depends on proper placement and environmental conditions. Professional radon testing ensures precise results and expert recommendations for mitigation if necessary.
For the most accurate radon testing and peace of mind, book a professional radon test with Dor-Mar. Call our Radon Hotline at (740) 675-1103 to schedule your test today. Don’t forget—if you’re a Home Comfort Membership member, your radon test is FREE!
