Introduction

When most homeowners think about hidden dangers in a house, they imagine mold, faulty wiring, or old plumbing. But there’s an invisible threat that often goes unnoticed: radon gas.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that seeps into homes from the ground. It’s odorless, tasteless, and colorless—making it impossible to detect without proper testing. In areas like Naperville, Joliet, Plainfield, and other west suburban Illinois communities, radon levels are higher than the national average.

In this blog, we’ll cover what radon is, why testing matters in suburban Illinois homes, how testing works, and the most common questions local homeowners have.

What Is Radon and Why Does It Matter in West Suburban Illinois?

Radon forms when uranium in soil, rock, and water naturally breaks down. It rises through the ground and can enter homes through foundation cracks, crawlspaces, sump pumps, or basement walls. Once inside, it can accumulate to dangerous levels.

Here’s why homeowners in west suburban Illinois should pay extra attention:

• EPA risk zones: Much of Illinois, including the western suburbs, falls into Radon Zone 1, the highest-risk category.

• Construction styles: Many local homes have basements, crawlspaces, or slab foundations that make them more vulnerable to radon infiltration.

• Health risks: Long-term radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., after smoking.

Key takeaways about radon dangers

Before moving on, remember these essential points:

• Radon has no smell, taste, or color. You won’t know it’s present without a test.

• Radon can affect new and old homes alike. Even brand-new builds are at risk.

• Illinois law requires sellers to disclose known radon test results, but not to test homes. It’s up to buyers and homeowners to take action.

How Radon Testing Works

Testing for radon is simple and affordable—but the results can be life-saving. There are two main types of radon tests: short-term and long-term.

Step 1: Short-Term Testing

Short-term tests usually last 2 to 7 days. A testing device is placed in the lowest livable level of the home, often the basement. This gives a quick snapshot of radon levels.

Step 2: Long-Term Testing

Long-term tests last 90 days or more, providing a more accurate average of radon exposure over time. These are especially useful if short-term results are borderline.

Step 3: Professional Testing Services

Certified inspectors use continuous monitoring equipment to deliver highly accurate results. Professional testing is the most reliable option and is often combined with a home inspection during the buying process.

Step 4: Next Steps if Radon Is Found

If results show radon levels at or above 4 pCi/L (the EPA action level), mitigation is recommended. Common solutions include:

• Installing a radon mitigation system with vent piping and fans

• Sealing cracks in the foundation and around sump pumps

• Improving home ventilation
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions homeowners in west suburban Illinois ask about radon:

Is radon really a problem in Illinois?
Yes. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency reports that more than 40% of homes tested in the state have radon levels above the EPA’s recommended action level.

Can a brand-new home have radon?
Absolutely. Radon comes from the soil, not the age of the home. Even newly built houses can have high levels.

When is the best time to test for radon?
Radon levels often rise in colder months when homes are sealed up, but testing can be done any time of year.

How much does radon testing cost?
Professional radon testing is generally affordable, especially compared to the potential health costs of long-term exposure.

Is mitigation expensive?
Installing a radon mitigation system typically costs less than many common home repairs—and it can protect your family’s health for years to come.

Conclusion

Radon is invisible, but the risks are real—especially in west suburban Illinois. Testing is the only way to know if your home is safe. Whether you’re buying a house in Plainfield, living in Naperville, or building in Joliet, radon testing is a crucial step in protecting your family’s health.

By taking action now, you not only ensure peace of mind but also add value to your home. Don’t leave radon detection to chance—make it part of your home inspection plan.

Pros and Cons of Radon Testing

Here’s a quick comparison to highlight why testing matters: