The Silent Intruder: Understanding Radon and How to Protect Your Des Moines Home

As homeowners, we often focus on the visible aspects of home improvement: fresh coats of paint, new flooring, or energy-efficient windows. But what about the invisible threats? One such hidden danger is radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can significantly impact the health and safety of your home. In Iowa, and especially around Des Moines, radon levels are of particular concern. The dsmSOLD Team is here to shed light on why radon awareness should be a priority for every homeowner.

What is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium breaks down in soil, rock, and water. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without proper testing. Radon can seep into homes through cracks in foundations, walls, and floors, becoming trapped indoors where it can accumulate to dangerous levels.

Why is Radon Dangerous?

The primary health risk associated with radon exposure is lung cancer. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States, making it the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking. When radon gas is inhaled, radioactive particles can get trapped in the lungs, causing damage to lung tissue over time and increasing the risk of cancer.

Radon in Des Moines: A Real Concern

Radon is a particular concern for Iowa homeowners. In fact, Iowa has some of the highest radon levels in the country due to its geology . The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) reports that more than 70% of homes in the state have radon levels above the EPA’s recommended action level of 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) . For homeowners in Des Moines, this means testing for radon is not just a recommendation but a necessity for health and safety.

How to Test for Radon

esting for radon is the only way to know if your home has elevated levels. There are two main types of tests: short-term tests (lasting from a few days to 90 days) and long-term tests (lasting over 90 days). Short-term tests are ideal for a quick initial reading, while long-term tests provide a more accurate assessment of year-round radon levels.

You can purchase radon testing kits at hardware stores, or you can hire a professional radon measurement specialist. In Iowa, the Iowa Department of Public Health recommends testing every two years, even if you’ve installed a radon mitigation system.

What to Do if Your Home Has High Radon Levels

If testing reveals high radon levels, don’t panic. Radon mitigation systems can effectively reduce radon to safe levels. These systems typically involve installing a vent pipe system and fan that draws radon from beneath the home and expels it outside. While costs vary, the average price for a radon mitigation system is between $800 and $1,500, which is a small investment for the long-term safety of your family.

Radon and Real Estate: What Buyers and Sellers Should Know

Radon is a key consideration during real estate transactions, especially in Iowa. Sellers are encouraged to test for radon before listing a property, and buyers often request radon testing as part of the inspection process. If elevated radon levels are detected, mitigation becomes a negotiating point in the sale.

At The dsmSOLD Team, we always encourage our clients to take radon seriously. For homeowners preparing to sell, addressing radon concerns upfront can make the home more attractive to buyers. For buyers, ensuring that the home has low or mitigated radon levels is an investment in long-term health and safety.

Take Action: Protect Your Home from Radon

For homeowners in Des Moines, being aware of radon and taking action is essential. Whether you’re buying, selling, or staying put, make sure radon is part of your home maintenance checklist. Regular testing and timely mitigation can provide peace of mind and protect your family from this invisible hazard.

Protecting Your Home and Health

At The dsmSOLD Team, we care about the well-being of homeowners in Des Moines. Radon may be invisible, but its effects are very real. Regular testing and, if necessary, mitigation are key steps in ensuring that your home is a safe environment for your family. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply maintaining your home, understanding the facts about radon is crucial.

By taking these steps, you protect your family’s health and safeguard your home's long-term value. If you have any questions about radon or need recommendations for local professionals who specialize in testing and mitigation, don’t hesitate to reach out to The dsmSOLD Team. We’re here to help!