Radon Gas Testing in Boise, ID

Radon testing in Boise is the process of measuring the concentration of radon gas inside a home or building. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from uranium in the soil and can seep indoors through cracks in the foundation, crawlspaces, sump pumps, or gaps around pipes. It cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, which makes it especially dangerous because homeowners often don’t realize they are being exposed. Boise and surrounding areas in Idaho are considered high-risk regions because the soil and rock formations release higher-than-average levels of radon gas. Without testing, families may unknowingly live with unsafe concentrations for years. Professional radon testing is the only way to determine your risk and protect your family’s health.

Radon levels are not fixed and can change over time, which is why radon testing in Boise should be done on a regular basis. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends testing your home every two years. You should also schedule a new test if you renovate your home, add a basement or addition, change your HVAC system, or notice new cracks in walls or floors. Even if your home previously tested at a safe level, radon levels can shift due to changes in soil, weather, or home ventilation. Regular testing ensures that your property continues to meet EPA safety guidelines and that your family remains protected from long-term radon exposure.

Yes, even brand-new homes can have radon issues, which is why radon testing in Boise is recommended for both older and newer properties. Many homeowners assume that new construction is immune, but radon is a soil-based gas, not just a problem in older buildings. Unless a builder installs radon-resistant features during construction, new houses are just as vulnerable as older ones. In fact, tightly sealed modern homes may trap radon inside more effectively, creating higher concentrations indoors. Every property is different, even within the same neighborhood, so radon testing is the only way to know if a new Boise home is safe.

If radon testing in Boise reveals levels at or above the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L, the next step is radon mitigation. A mitigation system uses fans and vent pipes to draw radon gas from beneath the foundation and release it safely outside. These systems are highly effective, often reducing indoor radon concentrations by 80 to 99 percent. Once installed, they run quietly and require little maintenance beyond periodic checks. After mitigation, a follow-up test should always be performed to confirm that radon levels are back within a safe range. Working with certified professionals ensures that your mitigation system is properly designed for your home and continues to protect your family long-term.

Both types of radon testing in Boise are valuable, depending on your situation. Short-term tests usually last 2 to 7 days and provide quick results. These are especially useful during real estate transactions, where buyers and sellers need answers fast. However, because radon levels can fluctuate with weather and seasonal changes, short-term tests may not give the full picture. Long-term testing lasts 90 days or more, measuring radon levels across different conditions and offering the most reliable data. For Boise homeowners who want complete peace of mind, long-term testing is recommended. Many homeowners choose to start with a short-term test and then follow up with a long-term test for the most accurate assessment.