What is Radon & Why It’s a Concern in Calgary
Radon gas is an invisible threat lurking beneath many Calgary homes—and if you’re unaware of the risks, your indoor air could be silently harming your family. This naturally occurring radioactive gas becomes dangerous when it seeps into basements and living spaces, often undetected. In fact, Health Canada reports that 1 in 6 Calgary homes have radon levels above the national safety guideline, making residential radon testing essential for community health in Southern Alberta.
Need accurate results you can trust? Calgary Radon Detection offers certified Radon Testing in Calgary with fast turnaround and expert analysis. Whether you're buying a home or protecting your family, our professional radon test gives you the answers you need. Book your test today.
Definition of radon as a radioactive gas
Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas formed from the natural decay of uranium found in soil, rock, and groundwater. Though harmless outdoors in low concentrations, radon becomes a problem when it accumulates indoors, especially in areas with limited ventilation like basements or crawl spaces.
How radon forms and enters buildings
As uranium breaks down underground, radon gas is released and can travel through cracks in foundations, floor gaps, pipe entries, or sump pits, infiltrating homes without warning. Properties built tightly for energy efficiency can unintentionally trap radon, increasing exposure levels over time.
Why Calgary homes are particularly at risk
Calgary’s unique geology—rich in sedimentary rock formations—creates the perfect conditions for elevated radon levels. The gas escapes naturally from the soil and can migrate quickly into homes. Additionally, because many homes in Calgary are built with finished basements and rely on mechanical HVAC systems, radon can accumulate to unsafe levels year-round.
“Calgary’s geology means radon gas can rise into homes more easily here than in other Canadian cities,” according to regional environmental studies.
Understanding radon is the first step toward protecting your home—calculated action comes next.
Health Risks of Radon Exposure
Breathing radon-contaminated air every day puts the health of you and your family at long-term risk—even if you’re otherwise living a healthy lifestyle. Many Calgary residents are unaware that their indoor air could contain radioactive particles with the potential to permanently damage lung tissue. Knowing the health implications is vital to making an informed decision about radon testing.
How radon damages lung tissue
When radon gas decays, it produces radioactive particles called alpha particles. These lodge in the lungs when inhaled, where they can damage cell DNA. Over time, this localized radiation exposure deteriorates lung tissue and increases the likelihood of developing serious respiratory conditions—even in non-smokers.
Long-term exposure and lung cancer risk
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Canada after smoking, according to Health Canada. The longer the exposure and the higher the radon level, the more your risk compounds. Children and smokers face elevated risk due to smaller lung capacities and already-compromised lung health. Since radon is invisible, symptoms often go unnoticed until it’s too late.
Don't leave your family's health to chance. A professional home radon test in Calgary takes the guesswork out of indoor air quality. Calgary Radon Detection uses Health Canada-approved methods to deliver results you can act on. Schedule your test now.
Radon vs. other indoor air hazards
Unlike mold or carbon monoxide, radon provides no odor, no color, and no immediate symptoms. It’s a silent hazard that can be even more dangerous due to its subtlety. While air purifiers and ventilation may help reduce various pollutants, only a targeted radon mitigation strategy designed by certified professionals addresses the root of the problem.
“Radon exposure can seriously impact lung health—trust Calgary Radon Detection for expert testing and peace of mind.”
If there’s only one indoor air concern you test for this year—make it radon.
DIY vs. Professional Radon Testing in Calgary
Thinking of testing for radon yourself? While DIY kits may seem cost-effective, they often sacrifice accuracy and reliability—especially in a climate like Calgary’s. Ensuring your family’s safety from this radioactive gas requires precision tools, expert evaluation, and data that homeowners can confidently act upon. Here’s how professional radon testing compares to the do-it-yourself route.
Short-term kits vs. long-term monitors
DIY radon test kits typically measure levels over a period of 2–7 days and require homeowners to place and send them off for lab analysis. However, short-term tests can yield misleading results due to weather or ventilation changes. In contrast, professional home radon inspections often deploy long-term electronic radon monitors—capturing data over 90+ days, which offers a much clearer picture.
Accuracy and reliability differences
Certified radon technicians in Calgary use calibrated instruments that meet strict national standards for both residential testing and legal reporting. These devices log hourly readings and correct for factors such as humidity and temperature. On the other hand, DIY kits can misrepresent exposure levels if not properly placed or handled, making mitigation decisions unreliable.
When to choose a professional radon detector
Professional testing is strongly recommended when
- You’re buying or selling a property in Calgary
- Your previous test showed elevated results
- You want a long-term, seasonally adjusted reading for peace of mind
- You’re required to comply with Alberta radon regulations in rental properties or workplaces
These services also come with thorough reporting, expert interpretation, and suggestions for mitigation if needed—something DIY cannot offer.
“Professional tests are more sensitive and meet real estate and regulatory standards.”
For reliable results you can act on, trust a certified radon testing company in Calgary.
Why Hire a Certified Radon Testing Company in Calgary
A certified technician from Calgary Radon Detection performs professional radon testing in a Calgary home basement.
When it comes to protecting the health of your family or tenants from elevated Calgary radon levels, hiring a certified radon testing company isn’t just a smart choice—it’s essential. Whether you’re selling a home, managing a property, or simply ensuring safe indoor air quality, working with licensed professionals provides the accuracy and peace of mind you won’t get from off-the-shelf radon test kits. Calgary Radon Detection offers expert-level service rooted in certification, precision, and deep local knowledge of radon in Calgary homes.
C-NRPP certification and compliance with Alberta regulations
The technicians at Calgary Radon Detection are trained and certified under the Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP), recognized across Canada as the gold standard for radon measurement and mitigation. C-NRPP certification ensures that every test complies with Health Canada’s Radon Guidelines and all regional protocols specific to Alberta.
“Our team is trained and certified under the Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program.”
Following rigorous guidelines gives homeowners confidence in the test results, especially when legal or real estate decisions are at stake. Our certified professionals use devices approved by Health Canada that meet long-term testing protocols and deliver actionable insights.
Accurate results trusted for home sales and mitigation planning
For Calgary homeowners planning to sell, a certified radon test can be a valuable part of your home inspection process. More buyers are requesting proof of safe radon levels before closing a deal. By partnering with Calgary Radon Detection, you gain documentation backed by science and regulatory compliance—trusted by real estate professionals and mitigation contractors alike.
For property managers and multi-unit developers, a certified inspection can guide environmental safety measures and ensure liability protection. These accurate measurements are also critical in developing long-term radon mitigation plans if elevated levels are found.
Peace of mind with expert consultation and next steps
Calgary Radon Detection doesn’t just test—we interpret results, explain every number, and guide you on next steps. If elevated radon levels are detected, our certified technicians provide clear mitigation options tailored to your home’s structure and airflow dynamics. We take the time to answer questions and help you feel confident in the solutions provided.
“We follow all Health Canada protocols for residential testing in Alberta.”
With local experience in Calgary neighbourhoods from Signal Hill to Mahogany, our team understands radon exposure risks in different building types—from vintage bungalows to new energy-efficient builds. That localized insight, combined with technical proficiency, sets us apart from general inspection companies.
Worried about radon? We’re offering no-cost testing for homes in Calgary and surrounding areas. Protect your health — book your free radon test today!
