What are the radon levels where I live? Illinois is located in Zone 1. Most Illinois Counties have a predicted average indoor radon screening level greater than 4.0 pCi/L (picoCuries per liter air)

The Hidden Seasonal Risk Most Homeowners Ignore When most people think about radon testing, they assume winter is the only time that matters. Closed windows, sealed homes, and stagnant air seem like the perfect conditions to detect this invisible gas. But that assumption is incomplete—and in many cases, dangerous. Summer radon testing is not only important—it’s essential for accurate risk assessment, real estate transactions, and year-round exposure protection. What Is Radon

If you’re asking this question, you’re already ahead of most homeowners. As an Illinois licensed radon measurement professional (RNM2015202), I’ve been performing radon testing since 2015 in residential, commercial, daycare, and multi-family buildings. Over the years, one thing has become clear: you cannot identify elevated radon levels just by looking at a home. You have to test.

In Illinois, especially across many western suburban areas, I’ve repeatedly seen consistently elevated radon levels across neighborhoods with similar architectural styles. These homes often sit on similar soil profiles, and that matters more than age, design, or occupancy habits. Radon is a byproduct of uranium naturally present in soil and rock. Because of that, all homes have some level of radon—the IMPORTANT QUESTION, how much radon is in your home?

Radon is everywhere: present in homes, schools, churches, hospitals, health clubs, daycare centers, and the "fresh air" we breathe outdoors. The difference is the concentrations. We must become more aware of invisible environmental risks, that are impacting our long-term health. Please start these important discussions with family, friends, and communities about the importance of radon testing and awareness. Every U.S. Surgeon General has recommended radon testing as a simpl

If there is one recommendation I give consistently, it is this: Test every home, regardless of age, location, or construction type. Testing should be treated as a standard part of home awareness, not a reaction to suspicion.

Common mistakes homeowners make The most frequent mistakes I see include: Assuming a home inspection automatically includes radon testing Relying on a neighbor’s test result Believing location or home age guarantees safety Incorrect placement of DIY tests Not retesting after changes to ventilation or mitigation systems Even small misunderstandings can lead to a false sense of security.

After years of field testing, one of the strongest predictors is not home age or style, but foundation and soil interaction. Homes built over: uranium-rich soils gravel or dirt crawl spaces multiple foundation transitions unsealed sump pits or soil gas entry points often show greater potential for elevated readings. One detail I frequently inspect is the sump pit cover. A missing or improperly sealed cover can be a significant entry point for soil gas, including radon. The on

One of the most common misunderstandings I hear is that radon “doesn’t apply” to certain homes or locations. Homeowners often believe: New construction homes are safe City homes (including Chicago and surrounding suburbs) don’t have radon Slab-on-grade homes are exempt A basement that isn’t used doesn’t matter Health or fitness can offset exposure risk If a neighbor has low radon, nearby homes must be low too After thousands of tests, I can say confidently: none of these assu

If you’re asking this question, you’re already ahead of most homeowners. As an Illinois licensed radon measurement professional (RNM2015202), I’ve been performing radon testing since 2015 in residential, commercial, daycare, and multi-family buildings. Over the years, one thing has become clear: you cannot identify elevated radon levels just by looking at a home. You have to test.