Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. Radon can infiltrate homes, where it can accumulate and pose a health risk when inhaled over long periods.

Radon is colorless and odorless. So, if you suspect your home could have high radon levels and you’re wondering, “Do I need to have my home radon tested?” the answer is yes. 

Residential radon mitigation practices — including Radon-Resistant Construction — help reduce radon levels within your home to a safe level.

Buying a home in Tennessee with a radon mitigation system can be a smart decision. Remember, radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas found in many parts of Tennessee, especially in areas with granite bedrock. A mitigation system helps ensure radon levels are controlled, reducing potential health risks. The mitigation system helps protect against radon exposure, which is linked to lung cancer. The EPA recommends mitigating radon levels above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). If the home already has a system installed, you avoid the expense of installing one yourself. 

Overall, a home with a radon mitigation system in Tennessee is a positive feature, especially in areas with high radon potential. If the system is functional and radon levels are controlled, a radon mitigation system may even increase the home's value. Help keep your system functioning with an annual service plan for as little as $179/year.

Yes, homes with properly installed and functioning radon mitigation systems are considered "safe." These systems are specifically designed to reduce radon levels to acceptable limits, minimizing health risks. The systems typically use a vent pipe and a fan to draw radon gas from beneath the home and vent it safely outside, preventing radon from accumulating indoors. 

Many systems also include mechanisms to monitor radon levels, ensuring they remain below the EPA's action level of 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Proper installation, regular maintenance, and periodic testing are all essential for proper residential radon mitigation in Middle Tennessee. An annual service plan for as little as $179/year can help keep your system functioning.

No. Home insurance typically does not cover radon mitigation. Standard homeowners' insurance policies generally exclude coverage for issues considered preventable or resulting from naturally occurring conditions, such as radon. Plus, mitigation is viewed as a preventive home improvement rather than a response to damage or loss, so it’s the homeowner’s responsibility. Home insurance typically covers sudden, accidental damage (like from a burst pipe or a car driving through your living room), not ongoing issues or required maintenance like radon mitigation.

Nope! Radon mitigation typically does not decrease a home’s value. Having a radon mitigation system installed can often increase the appeal and value of a home, particularly in areas where radon is a known issue like Nashville and the surrounding area.

Think about it. If you're selling your home… a home with a mitigation system provides peace of mind to buyers, as it shows the issue has been addressed and the home is safe from elevated radon levels. Plus, if your home already has a system, buyers don’t have to worry about this expense. Another selling point! 

Where might negative concerns come in? Some buyers unfamiliar with radon might see the system as a sign that the home has "a problem," even if it's been resolved. Education during the sales process can help alleviate this concern. If the system is installed in a highly visible or poorly integrated way, it could detract from the home’s appearance. A well-designed system (like the systems installed by The Radon Guys) minimizes this issue.

Yes, radon mitigation can increase a home's value, especially in areas like Middle Tennessee where radon is a known concern. Tennessee has above-average radon levels, and the EPA considers it a known hot spot for the radioactive gas. While it may not directly raise the appraised value, it can make the home more attractive to potential buyers and facilitate a smoother sale process. Ensure your home’s radon levels are safe and your system is maintained with an annual service plan — starting at $179/year!

In some cases, yes. However… in many cases, a passive radon system is not enough to dramatically lower your home's radon levels. Ensuring you have a quality passive radon system makes installing a fan down the line easier and more affordable — turning your passive system into an effective active one.

Radon doesn’t follow a map—it can be a problem anywhere! While some areas have higher average levels, radon levels vary from home to home, even in the same neighborhood. The only way to know for sure is to test your home, since factors like soil composition and ventilation play a big role in radon accumulation.

Running a radon fan is surprisingly affordable! On average, it costs between $3 to $8 per month in electricity—about the same as running a standard lightbulb 24/7. Plus, keeping radon levels low is a small price to pay for peace of mind and long-term health.

Experts recommend testing at least every two years or any time you make significant changes to your home, such as renovations, adding insulation, or altering the HVAC system. If you’ve never tested, now is the perfect time to start!

Yes, radon levels often spike in winter due to closed windows and doors trapping air inside. The stack effect—where warm indoor air rises and pulls in radon from the soil—can also contribute to higher levels. That’s why winter is a great time to test!

Absolutely! New homes are not radon-proof—in fact, they can sometimes have higher levels due to modern airtight construction. Many builders include passive radon-resistant features, but testing is still crucial to ensure your home is safe.

Sealing your crawl space can help, but it’s not always a complete solution. The most effective way to keep levels low is to outfit your home with a properly installed radon mitigation system. This may include crawl space encapsulation and installing an active radon system. If your home has a crawl space, consult a professional, like The Radon Guys, for the best approach.

Sealing cracks can help reduce radon entry, but it’s not a standalone fix. Radon is a gas, and it can still find its way through tiny gaps you might not even see.  Often, an active radon mitigation system – including a vent pipe and fan – plus crawlspace encapsulation is the best way to ensure safe levels.