Radon Mitigation
What is Radon?
Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is present throughout every county within the San Francisco Bay Area. It enters through tiny cracks or holes in basements or concrete slabs and can concentrate inside buildings. Radon has been estimated by EPA for 15,000 to 22,000 deaths every year and is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Because it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless it cannot be sensed.
Radon In the San Francisco Bay Area
Radon is a serious health concern in the San Francisco Bay Area, particularly in regions like San Mateo County and the Oakland Hills, due to the area's unique geological formations and diverse building practices. The natural decay of uranium in bedrock contributes to elevated radon levels that can accumulate in homes. Older construction methods and the hilly terrain further increase the risk, allowing radon to seep into living spaces. The Bay Area’s unique geological features makes radon testing and mitigation essential part for Bay Area homeowners.
Radon Testing
Testing your home for Radon is a crucial step to ensure the safety of your household. Radon tests kits are both affordable and user-friendly, allowing you to conduct the test yourself.
Testing Options
1) Short-Term Radon Test Kit
Short-term radon test kits are an affordable and convenient option for quickly assessing radon levels in your home. Priced at around $20, these kits are readily available online (such as on Amazon) or at home improvement stores. The testing process involves placing the test canister in the lowest livable space of your home for 2-7 days. Once the testing period is complete, the kit is mailed to a certified laboratory for analysis. You will receive a detailed report shortly after, explaining the radon levels in your home.
2) Long-Term Digital Radon Test
Long-term digital radon testing devices offer homeowners continuous monitoring of radon levels in their homes. Many of these devices come equipped with Wi-Fi compatibility, allowing you to track radon levels remotely via a related app, which provides in-depth graphs and data. These devices are essential for understanding the patterns of radon gas in your home, as radon levels can fluctuate due to seasonal, atmospheric, and household activity changes, such as opening windows or using the HVAC system. Priced between $80 and $200, digital radon meters deliver a consistent and comprehensive analysis of radon levels, helping you maintain a safe living environment.
3) Professional Radon Testing Services
At MG Remediation, Inc., we offer professional radon testing services in the San Francisco Bay Area to ensure your home or business is safe from the dangers of radon exposure. Our expert team uses advanced testing methods and state-of-the-art equipment to accurately measure radon levels in your property. Whether you need a comprehensive evaluation or a follow-up test after mitigation, our certified professionals are equipped to provide reliable and thorough testing.
Interpreting Radon Results
After receiving the results of the radon test, it is important to fully understand what these levels mean.
Less than 2.0 pCi/L: This level is considered safe, and no further action is typically necessary.
2.0 - 3.9 pCi/L: The EPA suggests considering mitigation for levels between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L. The European and World Health Organization recommend action at 2.7 pCi/L.
4.0 pCi/L and above: This level exceeds the EPA’s recommended action threshold. It's advisable to contact MG Remediation, Inc. for a free consultation and to discuss potential mitigation options.
Radon Mitigation Systems
To effectively remove radon from a house, a radon mitigation system must be installed. Depending on the type of building structure involved, MG Remediation, Inc. can design and install the appropriate radon mitigation system needed to reduce radon. From Active Soil Depressurization systems to Carbon Adsorption for removing radon from water, MG has professional experience when installing all types of radon mitigation systems.
Types of Systems
1) Sub-Slab Depressurization
A sub-slab depressurization system is an effective solution for homes with a slab-on-grade structure. This system involves coring a 5-inch circular hole either horizontally through the exterior concrete footer or vertically through the interior concrete slab. MG Remediation, Inc. then installs a fan system connected to PVC piping, which safely vents the radon gas outside, preventing it from entering your living space.
2) Sub-Membrane Depressurization
Ideal for homes with crawlspaces, a sub-membrane depressurization system effectively controls radon gas. MG Remediation, Inc. installs a reinforced plastic membrane across the entire crawlspace, carefully sealing it with adhesives and tape to ensure an airtight barrier. A fan system is then added to create negative pressure beneath the membrane, drawing radon gas away and venting it safely outside.
3) Inaccessible Crawlspace Dilution System
In some cases, homes have crawlspaces that are not accessible, making it impossible to install a membrane. In these scenarios, MG Remediation, Inc. utilizes a dilution system to manage radon levels effectively. This system involves installing a network of PVC piping designed to pull a vacuum and reach all areas of your home, even those that are hard to access. The piping is then connected to a fan located outside, which safely vents the radon gas away from your living space. This solution ensures that even in challenging situations, your home remains protected from radon exposure.
Our Guarantee
MG Remediation, Inc. is certified in over seven Western region states to install radon mitigation systems. We have proudly served the Bay Area and Los Angeles in radon mitigation for over 20 years. We guarantee that our systems will reduce your average radon levels below the European and World Health Organization’s action threshold of 2.7 pCi/L. Our systems are designed to be both effective and aesthetically pleasing, offering a long-term solution to ensure your home remains safe.
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