What Is Radon and Why Should Calgary Homes Be Concerned?
If you’re a Calgary homeowner or property manager, understanding radon exposure is no longer optional—it’s essential. With growing awareness about indoor air hazards, radon gas has climbed to the top of health and safety concerns across Alberta properties. Whether you live in a new Inglewood infill or a century-old Beltline building, your home could be silently accumulating radon well beyond Health Canada’s safe exposure limits.
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.
What is radon gas?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas released from the decay of uranium found in soil, rock and water. It migrates up through the ground and into our homes through cracks in the foundation, sumps, and gaps around pipes. In enclosed spaces like basements or ground floors, radon can concentrate to levels that pose significant health risks.
Why is radon dangerous?
Once inhaled, radon gas breaks down further into radioactive particles that can damage lung tissue. According to Health Canada, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, after smoking. Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels dramatically increases cancer risk—even in non-smokers. This is why certified radon detection and mitigation are critical, especially in colder climates with tightly sealed homes like those in Calgary.
Radon hotspots in Calgary—local statistics
Recent radon mapping studies conducted by researchers and provincial health authorities reveal alarming trends. Over 1 in 7 Calgary homes may exceed safe radon limits, with certain neighbourhoods such as Tuscany, Cranston, and Varsity reporting higher-than-average results. Even high-rises and newer construction aren’t immune, undermining the myth that only older homes are at risk.
If you’re concerned about your indoor air quality, radon testing is the first critical step toward peace of mind.
Types of Radon Tests and How Long They Take
A Calgary family enjoys peace of mind with safe indoor air quality following a professional radon test.
Searching “how long does a radon test take” for your Calgary home? The answer depends on the testing method and your urgency level. Whether you’re doing a quick screening for real estate purposes or assessing long-term exposure risks, understanding your options—and how long each takes—is essential for accurate results.
Short-term radon test (charcoal test kits)
Short-term test kits are typically placed in your home’s lowest livable level for 2–7 days. These charcoal-based or digital monitors absorb radon concentrations, which are then sent to a lab for analysis. Short-term testing is useful for a snapshot view—but can be affected by daily air fluctuations or HVAC systems.
Quick Fact: Short-term tests take as little as 48 hours, but should be done with closed-house conditions for maximum reliability.
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.
Long-term radon test (alpha track detectors)
Alpha track detectors remain in place for a minimum of 91 days, often up to a full year. These passive devices provide a more accurate average of your home’s radon exposure over time—factoring in daily and seasonal variations. This is the preferred method recommended by Health Canada, especially for homeowners considering mitigation or long-term occupancy.
Professional radon testing and lab turnaround
Certified professionals, like those from Calgary Radon Detection, use calibrated digital detectors for either short or long-term testing. This service often includes lab-grade reporting and consultation. Most professional test results are available within two weeks, offering both speed and reliability—ideal for due diligence during home purchases or leases.
Whether you’re moving in or remodeling, budget time based on which test best fits your goals and schedule.
What Affects the Duration of a Radon Test?
Seasonal changes in Calgary can impact how long a radon test takes and the accuracy of results inside your home.
While radon test kits have fixed durations, several Calgary-specific environmental factors can influence their effectiveness. Knowing these variables helps you interpret results accurately or decide when to schedule your evaluation for maximum insight.
Seasonal variations and why winter testing is recommended in Calgary
Radon levels tend to spike in the winter due to sealed windows and increased indoor stacking effect. Health Canada recommends testing during the heating season (October–April) when radon is most likely to accumulate. This is crucial for Calgary’s long winters, where furnaces run for months and natural ventilation is minimal.
Airflow, HVAC systems, and closed-house conditions
Ventilation significantly affects radon readings. Opening windows or running high-powered fans during testing can dilute indoor radon concentrations, resulting in skewed low results. Short-term tests require closed-house conditions for at least 12 hours prior to and throughout the test period, making planning essential, especially in homes with occupied basements or shared ventilation systems.
Accuracy vs urgency: Why longer tests matter
Homeowners often ask if a two-day test is “good enough.” While short-term testing can quickly identify a potential problem, only long-term testing reveals a home’s true average radon exposure. A rushed test may lead to false reassurance or unnecessary mitigation. In contrast, comprehensive testing arms you with accurate, actionable data and cost-effective next steps.
Take control of your indoor air quality—plan your radon test for the right conditions, at the right duration.
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How to Test for Radon in Calgary: Step-by-Step
Curious how to begin radon testing in your Calgary home? Whether you’re a homeowner or property manager, understanding how to properly test for radon gas is the first step toward safe indoor air. Radon levels can fluctuate due to seasons, ventilation, and housing type—so using a methodical, proven process is essential. Here’s how to approach radon gas detection, from start to finish.
Step 1: Choose your test type and location
For homes in Calgary, AB, certified radon testing typically includes two test types: short-term tests (lasting 2–7 days) and long-term tests (lasting 91+ days). While short-term radon tests offer quicker insight, long-term tests provide a more accurate picture of average radon exposure over time.
Always place your test device on the lowest lived-in level of your home—such as a basement or ground floor. Avoid kitchens and bathrooms, as airflow from fans or humidity can distort the results.
Step 2: Maintain closed building conditions
To ensure readings reflect indoor radon levels accurately, windows and exterior doors should remain closed—except for normal entry and exit—at least 12 hours before and during the test. This is particularly important for short-term testing.
Calgary’s seasonal variations can also influence radon behavior. Winter months, when homes are sealed tight, often reveal higher radon concentrations—making them ideal for testing.
Step 3: Wait, analyze, and interpret results
Once your test duration ends, it’s time to analyze. Calgary Radon Detection uses certified laboratory analysis to verify every test—providing detailed, accurate, and Health Canada-compliant reports within days.
“All Calgary Radon Detection tests are lab-analyzed for accurate, certified results with detailed reporting.”
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!
What to Do If Your Radon Levels Are High
Receiving high radon level results can feel overwhelming—but you’re not alone. Thousands of Calgary homeowners find out their radon levels exceed Health Canada’s recommended thresholds each year. The good news: There are effective, affordable mitigation solutions that can drastically reduce risk and restore your peace of mind. Here’s what to know and do next.
Understanding Health Canada radon thresholds in Bq/m³
Health Canada advises homeowners to take corrective action if radon levels exceed 200 becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m³). Prolonged exposure above this level can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer, even in nonsmokers. It’s critical to act swiftly—but thoughtfully.
“Health Canada recommends acting if your home is over 200 Bq/m³.”
When to retest your home
If your initial radon test indicates high levels, it’s often best to follow up with a long-term test to confirm. Conditions such as season, home renovations, and HVAC usage can fluctuate test results. Retesting ensures your mitigation plan is based on solid data—and gives you more confidence in your next steps.
Radon mitigation solutions and timelines
Mitigation doesn’t have to be invasive or drawn-out. The most effective system for Calgary homes is sub-slab depressurization—a technique that installs a pipe and fan system to draw radon from beneath your foundation and vent it safely outside.
Professional mitigation can often be completed in just 1–2 days, with minimal disruption to your home and lifestyle.
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!
Where to Get Reliable Radon Testing in Calgary
Looking for trusted radon testing professionals in Calgary? DIY kits may seem convenient, but when it comes to your family’s health, certified radon testing delivers peace of mind with accuracy and accountability. Here’s why working with local experts like Calgary Radon Detection is the right move—and how to get started today.
Why choose certified professionals over DIY kits
Unlike over-the-counter radon test kits, certified professionals follow industry protocols to ensure proper placement, timing, and lab verification. DIY kits often lack calibration and chain-of-custody tracking—meaning your results could be compromised.
We offer free professional radon testing to Calgary homeowners with certified analysis and no-obligation reports.
How Calgary Radon Detection ensures accuracy
All tests conducted by Calgary Radon Detection meet Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP) guidelines. We handle device setup, controlled conditions, and lab submission—giving you complete, trustworthy data to base decisions on.
Our test results are verified by accredited laboratories, and you’ll receive a full report with insights and recommendations tailored to your home’s unique environment.
Book a free test with local certified experts
Founded in 2024, Calgary Radon Detection is committed to expert testing and long-term safety solutions for local families. From Mahogany to Hillhurst, we serve all Calgary communities with professional-grade monitoring and mitigation recommendations—without pressure or upselling. Our team of certified professionals utilizes state-of-the-art technology to ensure accurate results and peace of mind. As part of our commitment to community well-being, we also provide ongoing support and guidance tailored to each family’s unique needs, ensuring adherence to Calgary’s radon safety recommendations. Trust us to prioritize your home’s safety and contribute to healthier indoor environments for everyone.
Our local focus means faster support, trusted expertise, and clear communication every step of the way.
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!
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