Radon is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that can accumulate indoors, especially in the basement and lower levels of Canadian homes . Exposure to high radon levels is a known health risk, with radon gas exposure being the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, according to Health Canada and other expert accounts. Fortunately, testing for radon gas in a dwelling is easy, and can be done on your own with a DIY test kit.

Radon gas is formed when uranium, thorium, and radium decompose naturally in soil, rock, and water. While radon safely disperses outdoors, in its natural environment, the gas can enter homes through foundation cracks, floor gaps, and other openings. This can lead to it accumulating to potentially hazardous levels indoors.

In Canada, radon levels can vary significantly, and some areas have been reported to have some of the highest radon levels in the world. Home in areas with nutrient-rich soil, like the prairies and northern region can be more susceptible to radon infiltration, but radon can be present anywhere in Canada. High levels of radon have been linked to many health risks, in addition to lung cancer, especially over time. Health Canada recommends testing your home for radon and taking action if levels in your home exceed 200 Bq/m³ (becquerels per cubic meter). Because of this, radon testing should be a high priority for all homeowners and residents.

Advantages of DIY Radon Testing

DIY radon test kits are affordable, easily accessible, and allow you to monitor radon levels on your own time. They are generally available at hardware stores, home improvement centers, online, or through your local retailer. When purchasing, look for kits that are certified by the Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP) to ensure it is a quality device that meets national standards.

This is a great first step, especially if you are a first-time homeowner, as it helps to provide general awareness. A DIY test provides a reliable assessment of whether radon levels are within a safe range, and if you need to take immediate mitigation measures to improve indoor air quality.

There are two main types of radon test kits, so it is helpful to be aware of which you are looking for when getting ready to purchase. Here are the options:

Short-Term Kits: These radon tests measure the air quality for 2-7 days and will report radon levels from the sample taken at that time. While these tests do provide quicker results, they are regarded as less reliable, since they do not provide a full picture of radon levels during various seasons. Short-term tests are best used to test the levels of a building in a short period, such as before moving into a new home.
Long-Term Kits: These are the more standard tests that measure radon levels over a 3-12 month period. It is recommended to test levels during colder months, when homes are more likely to be sealed up and insulated, as radon often peaks during this time. You should test for at least 90 days to get the best result, but the longer you test, the more accurate your reading will be.

Tips for Setting Up a DIY Radon Test

Each radon test kit has unique instructions, so be sure to read and follow them thoroughly. Some may require an activation or registration, while simpler models can just be unsealed and placed in the designated location. Placement is very important, as putting the device in the wrong place can impact the accuracy of the results.

For placement, some tips include:

Keep the test kit at least 50 cm off the floor. A desk or side table is a good choice.
Place it away from any walls, at least 20 cm, to avoid interference.
Ensure the kit is away from any children, pets, or potential tampering.
Place the kit away from exterior doors or windows to reduce outside air impacting the results.
Avoid moving or disturbing the kit during the specified time.

Once the testing time has passed, you can seal the kit as instructed to avoid contamination. You likely will have to fill out some forms and send them to the lab specified by the manufacturer. Many of the kits even provided prepaid envelopes to make this process a breeze. Your test results often arrive within a few weeks and may be available digitally or as a physical report, depending on the manufacturer and their method.

If your results are below 200 Bq/m³, no further action is necessary. This is considered within safe levels, and exposure is minimal. You may still choose to employ some simple DIY mitigation techniques, such as sealing any cracks, gaps, or spaces in the foundation or exterior walls, or installing an air purification system in your home to help reduce contaminants. The lower the levels of radon and other toxins in your home, the better you and your family can breathe. It is important to remember that periodic testing should still be done every few years, and before moving into a new home.

When to Consider Professional Assistance

If your home tests at radon levels above 200 Bq/m³, Health Canada strongly recommends taking action. Exposure to these levels can increase your risk of developing lung cancer and is more dangerous if you have small children or elderly family members or residents in the building. A radon mitigation system can be installed yourself, but it is always recommended to seek professional assistance to get the best possible results and increase indoor air quality.

If your DIY results indicate elevated radon levels, a follow-up with a certified professional can also confirm your results, to ensure the test was performed properly and results are accurate. Professional testing is also a good idea if you are buying or selling a home, as it offers a more comprehensive evaluation and may use more advanced equipment for accuracy.

You can consult with C-NRPP-certified radon mitigation professionals, like the experts at Radon Ottawa Pros. We can help you understand your options and recommend a solution tailored to your home’s layout and radon levels. Contact us today for a free consultation!