The Silent Threat: Why You Need to Test for Radon Before Buying a New Home in Colorado Springs

If you're in the market for a home around the Pikes Peak area, you will want to test for radon before buying. While you're admiring those stunning mountain views and exploring Colorado Springs' vibrant neighborhoods, radon gas hides underground. It's odorless, colorless, and might be lurking in your dream home right now. If you don't take the proper care to mitigate radon, it could turn your homeownership dreams into a health nightmare.

The Radon Reality in Colorado Springs

Living in the shadow of America's Mountain comes with its perks, but it also brings some unique challenges. One of those is our region's higher-than-average radon levels. Colorado ranks seventh in the United States for high radon levels, and radon gas doesn't discriminate. It can be found in new and old homes, from the historic Old North End to the newest developments in Banning Lewis Ranch.

Radon seeps into homes through tiny cracks in the foundation, and while basements are common entry points, radon can be found on any level of a home.

Health Risks: When Your Home Becomes a Health Hazard

Radon is a big deal when it comes to your health because radon gas is radioactive. Radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, right behind smoking. Radon is especially dangerous because of its properties:

Silent Killer

You can't see, smell, or taste radon, which makes it impossible to detect without professional testing, and the Pikes Peak region's granite formations are rich in uranium, increasing the likelihood of radon in your home.

Long-Term Exposure

In the United States, radon gas is estimated to cause about 20,000 deaths per year. The health risks increase the longer you're exposed to high levels of radon, so it's important to take precautions when buying a home. If you're also considering health coverage options, a health insurance broker near you can help you explore plans that fit your needs.

Everyone is at Risk

While smokers are at higher risk, radon can affect anyone's health, regardless of age or health status. Many homes in our area will test higher than the EPA's recommended action level of 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter).

The Radon Testing Process: Easier Than Climbing Pikes Peak

Although Radon gas sounds scary, there's good news. Getting a test for radon before buying is surprisingly simple and affordable. There are a few things you can expect during a radon test:

Non-Invasive Process

The test doesn't require drilling holes or damaging your potential new home. Radon tests are usually performed in the lowest livable area of the home.

Short Timeframe

Most tests take between 2-7 days, depending on the type of test used. Some can be conducted over 90 days, providing a more accurate annual average.

Professional Analysis

Your results will be interpreted by our experts who understand the unique geology of the Pikes Peak region.

The Cost of Inaction: Why "Wait and See" Isn't an Option

You might be tempted to skip the radon test to save a few bucks or speed up the home-buying process. However, the cost of radon mitigation after you've moved in could be significantly higher, not to mention the potential health risks. Making sure to test for radon before buying because it gives you:

Peace of Mind

Knowing your potential home's radon levels gives you the power to make an informed decision. It's like checking the weather before planning a hike up Pikes Peak – you want to know what you're getting into.

Negotiation Power

If high radon levels are detected, you may be able to negotiate with the seller to have a mitigation system installed before you move in. It's a win-win to test for radon before buying: you get a safer home, and they get to sell their property.

Cost-Effective Prevention

Testing for radon is considered to be an inexpensive process, especially when you compare potential health costs down the road. Testing for radon not only protects your investment but also ensures the health and safety of your family in your new home.

Taking Action: Your Next Steps

Your next step is to take action; here's what you can do:

• Schedule a Test: Contact Pikes Peak Home Inspections to set up a test for radon before buying as part of your home inspection.
• Review the Results: We'll walk you through the findings, explaining what the numbers mean for you and your family.
• Make an Informed Decision: Armed with knowledge, you can decide how to proceed with your home purchase.

Whether you're eyeing a charming bungalow in Manitou Springs or a modern condo in downtown Colorado Springs, you can count on Pikes Peak Home Inspections to help you make your Colorado dream home a safe reality. So, before you start planning your housewarming party or picking out curtains, give us a call to test for radon before buying. Let's ensure your new home is as safe as it is beautiful.

Interpreting Your Radon Test Results

Once you've got your test results, what do they mean? Here's a quick guide to EPA guidelines:

• Below 2 pCi/L: Good news! This is considered low risk.
• 2-4 pCi/L: Consider retesting and think about radon reduction measures.
• 4 pCi/L or higher: Time for action. Mitigation is recommended.

Colorado-specific considerations: Due to our state's geology, it's not uncommon for homes in Colorado Springs to test above 4 pCi/L. Don't panic – proper mitigation is possible with Pikes Peak Home Inspections.

Why Choose Pikes Peak Home Inspections for Your Radon Test

When it comes to protecting your investment and your family's health, you want a local team that knows the ins and outs of Colorado Springs real estate. That's where Pikes Peak Home Inspections comes in. We're not just another inspection company; we're your neighbors who understand the unique challenges of buying a home in this area.

What sets us apart:

Local Expertise

We know the Colorado Springs area like the back of our hand, from the quirks of homes in the Old Colorado City historic district to the newest builds in Flying Horse. We understand local factors, such as elevation, which can actually amplify radon concentrations in homes.

Comprehensive Service

We don't just drop off a test kit and call it a day. Our thorough approach ensures accurate results, taking into account factors like your home's structure and local weather patterns that can affect radon levels.

Tailored Recommendations

We're not just another faceless inspection company. As your neighbors in Colorado Springs, we're committed to providing you with personalized services that address your specific needs. If radon is detected, we provide specific mitigation advice suited to the unique construction and location of your home.

Beyond Radon

If you decide to test for radon before buying, remember that Pikes Peak Home Inspections offers a full range of inspection services. From checking the integrity of that charming Victorian in Old Colorado City to ensuring the safety of a new build in Northgate, we've got you covered.

Secure Your Colorado Springs Home Investment Today with Peak Home Inspections

Don't leave your property's condition to chance. Whether you're buying, selling, or maintaining a home in Colorado Springs or El Paso County, trust the local experts at Peak Home Inspections to provide you with professional and comprehensive inspection services.

As your trusted Colorado Home Inspector, we deliver clear, informative reports that highlight significant issues, necessary repairs, and maintenance requirements. Peak Home Inspections serves a diverse range of clients, from first-time home buyers to real estate professionals. Contact Peak Home Inspections today and experience the difference that local expertise and professional service can make for your Colorado Springs property! Contact us today to schedule your test for radon before buying, or give us a call at (719) 495-0042 for personalized service.

Don't wait until it's too late. Protect your family and ensure the safety of your property with Peak Home Inspections – your local, reliable partner in comprehensive home inspections.