Radon and asbestos guides
Two hazards you can’t judge by looking. Radon: where it comes from, how to test and read the result, and how mitigation systems work and what they cost. Asbestos: where it shows up in older basements, when to leave it alone and how testing and removal work. Asbestos information is reviewed by Graham Whitlock.
Radon basics and testing
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Start here
Radon in your basement: where it comes from and what to do
Radon in basement air comes from the soil under your home. How it gets in, why levels peak on the lowest floor, and the 3 steps to take.
Read the guide: Radon in your basement: where it comes from and what to do -
How to test for radon: short-term vs. long-term tests
How to test for radon at home: which test to use, where to place it, how long it takes, what it costs and the mistakes that ruin a result.
Read the guide: How to test for radon: short-term vs. long-term tests -
Radon levels chart: what your test result means
A radon level chart in pCi/L and Bq/m³ with EPA action levels: what counts as acceptable, when to retest and when to fix your home.
Read the guide: Radon levels chart: what your test result means
Fixing radon
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Radon mitigation systems: how they work and what a good install looks like
How radon mitigation works in basements, slabs and crawl spaces, what a good radon mitigation system includes, and when DIY falls short.
Read the guide: Radon mitigation systems: how they work and what a good install looks like -
Radon mitigation cost: what a system costs to install and run
Radon mitigation cost in 2026: typical system prices, what raises the price, running costs for the fan, and how to compare quotes.
Read the guide: Radon mitigation cost: what a system costs to install and run -
Radon fan replacement and system checks: is your system still working?
Radon fan replacement: how to read the manometer, signs the fan is failing, replacement cost and the regular checks your system needs.
Read the guide: Radon fan replacement and system checks: is your system still working?
Asbestos
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Asbestos in the basement: pipe insulation, boilers and ducts
Where asbestos hides in older basements, from pipe insulation to boilers and transite, when to leave it alone and what to do before you renovate.
Read the guide: Asbestos in the basement: pipe insulation, boilers and ducts -
Asbestos floor tiles and black mastic: test, cover or remove?
How to tell if old floor tiles or black mastic might contain asbestos, when covering them is safer than removing them, and what testing and removal cost.
Read the guide: Asbestos floor tiles and black mastic: test, cover or remove?
Related guides in other sections
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