When you think about Home safety in Asheville, you probably picture secure locks, smoke detectors, or maybe a well-maintained roof. But there’s one invisible danger that many homeowners overlook, Radon Gas.
What Is Radon and Why Should You Care? A Hidden Danger That Lurks Underground
Radon is a colorless, odorless, naturally occurring radioactive gas formed from the decay of uranium found in soil and rock. It infiltrates homes through foundation cracks and soil gas and long-term exposure is the Second leading cause of Lung Cancer in the U.S., right after smoking. Asheville homeowners face this risk more than they might think while in the whole area of Western North Carolina, we’re in with Moderate to High Radon Potential, meaning homes are at real risk. We don't mean to scare ya!
Asheville’s Elevated Risk: What The Data Shows
Asheville, located in Buncombe County, falls into EPA Radon Zone 1, meaning there’s a predicted Average Indoor Radon Level above 4 pCi/L Higher than the EPA’s recommended action threshold.
The statewide Radon Potential Map shown above highlights Western North Carolina including Asheville as a hotspot, due to its granitic and intrusive geology that naturally allows Radon to accumulate.
Why Radon Testing Matters in Asheville
Our beautiful mountain terrain may offer stunning views, but it also creates soil conditions where Radon Gas can easily accumulate. Factors like older home foundations, finished basements, and certain soil compositions increase your risk.
Radon levels can vary dramatically from house to house even on the same street. The only way to know if your home is safe is to test.
How Often Should You Test?
- Recommended every 2 years for existing homes, even if your last test came back safe.
- Immediately after major renovations, especially to the foundation or basement.
- Before Buying or Selling a Home as many real estate transactions now require it in Western North Carolina.
- Geographic variation is dramatic even on the same street. The only way to know if your 28801 or 28803 area home has elevated levels is through testing. NC DHHSRadonResources.com
- High Health Stakes. Around 77 of North Carolina’s 100 Counties have indoor Radon levels exceeding the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L, and Radon exposure causes an estimated 450 Lung Cancer deaths Annually in the State. NC DHHS
- Simple, Affordable, and Effective. Testing is easy using either short-term kits or professional continuous monitors and well-being is priceless.
What Happens During a Radon Test?
Here at Pisgah Home Inspections, we use professional Radon equipment to monitor your home’s Radon levels over a period of 48 hours. This ensures accurate results and gives you clear guidance on whether mitigation is needed.
What To Do If Your Test Shows High Levels
- 4 pCi/L or Higher → Install a Radon Mitigation System. Usually a sub-slab depressurization system.
- Between 2 and 4 pCi/L → Consider mitigation, especially if you have children or long-term residents.
- Most systems reduce levels significantly and can be financed with some medical pretax accounts even covering them.
The Bottom Line
Radon may be invisible, but the danger is real. A simple test can protect your family’s health and give you peace of mind. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Know your Home’s Radon Level today.