Radon is an invisible, odorless gas that can pose serious health risks when trapped inside a home. While many assume that only older homes are affected, radon in new construction Idaho homes is a growing concern. Radon can enter homes through the soil, making radon testing an essential step—even for brand-new properties.
Southeast Idaho is known for elevated radon levels, making it crucial for homebuyers, builders, and homeowners to understand the importance of radon testing. This radon testing guide will explain why radon is a risk in new homes, how testing works, and how you can protect your family.
Why Radon Testing is Necessary for New Construction Homes
1. Radon Health Risks: Why It’s a Concern
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, according to the EPA. Long-term exposure can be dangerous, even in small amounts. Because radon is naturally present in the soil, it can seep into homes through foundation cracks, crawl spaces, and basement floors.
New homes in Southeast Idaho are not exempt from this risk. Modern energy-efficient construction techniques—such as tighter insulation and sealed foundations—can trap radon inside, increasing indoor concentrations.
2. How Radon Enters New Homes
Even with updated building codes, radon can still enter through:
Cracks in foundations and slab floors
Gaps around utility pipes and sump pumps
Crawl spaces and unfinished basements
Porous concrete and other foundation materials
Southeast Idaho has naturally high radon levels, which means every new home should be tested, regardless of the construction type.
3. The Importance of Pre-Occupancy Radon Testing
Many homebuyers assume that because a home is newly built, it doesn’t need radon testing—but this is a dangerous misconception. The EPA and the radon testing guide for new construction recommend testing before moving in.
Testing involves placing radon detection devices in the lowest livable area of the home (such as the basement or crawl space) for at least 48 hours. Results will determine whether mitigation is necessary before a family moves in.
4. Radon Mitigation Options for New Builds
If high radon levels are detected in a new home, mitigation is effective and affordable. Common solutions include:
Active Radon Mitigation Systems (ARMS) – A vent pipe and fan system that redirects radon gas outside before it enters the home.
Sealed Foundation Cracks – Helps prevent radon from seeping through small openings.
Crawl Space Barriers – Installing vapor barriers in crawl spaces can reduce radon infiltration.
Builders in Idaho are increasingly incorporating radon-resistant features during construction, but testing remains essential.
Radon is a serious health risk that affects homes of all ages—including new construction in Idaho. Since Southeast Idaho has naturally high radon levels, radon testing should be a standard part of the home-buying process.
Protect your family by scheduling a radon test before moving into your new home. Vantage Point Inspections offers professional radon testing services to ensure your home is safe. Contact us today to schedule your test and get peace of mind!
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