Radon in Centerton: When and How to Test

You can’t see or smell radon, but it can affect any home in Centerton. If you’re buying, selling, or simply want peace of mind, a clear plan for testing removes guesswork and keeps your family safe. In a few minutes, you’ll learn when to test, how to test, what your results mean, and how to handle next steps if levels are high. Let’s dive in.

Radon in Centerton: What to know

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can build up indoors and increase long‑term lung cancer risk. Public health agencies emphasize that testing is the only way to know your level. You can review why it matters in this EPA overview.

Benton County is mapped by the EPA as a Zone 2 area (moderate potential), which means some homes can test high and others low. The map is a planning tool, not a prediction for your house, so testing your own property is essential. See the EPA Map of Radon Zones for context.

Historical surveys have recorded single high readings in Benton County, which shows how levels can vary from house to house. Local geology in northern Arkansas can contribute to elevated radon in some homes, so every Centerton property should be tested at least once. The EPA action level is 4.0 pCi/L. Many experts suggest considering reduction steps between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L as well.

When to test a Centerton home

Testing is smart during a real estate transaction. Arkansas is effectively a buyer‑beware state without a statewide radon disclosure form, so buyers should request testing or a radon contingency, and sellers should share any known results. For background on Arkansas disclosure practices, review this Nolo summary of state obligations and the EPA’s transaction guidance.

If you’ve never tested your home, start now. Retest after major changes that alter airflow or foundation conditions, such as finishing a basement, changing HVAC systems, or doing foundation repairs. The CDC’s overview of radon testing is a helpful primer on timing and methods; see the CDC radon testing guide.

Best seasons and conditions

Short‑term tests work best under “closed‑house” conditions. Keep windows and exterior doors closed for 12 hours before and during the test, except for normal entry and exit. Winter is a common time to test because homes are typically closed up; guidance on test conditions is outlined by public health programs like Minnesota’s radon testing page.

Timeline during a deal

Most short‑term tests take 2 to 7 days, and lab processing can be quick. If a result is elevated, a second short‑term test or a long‑term test can confirm it. The EPA’s guidance for follow‑up testing explains when to confirm and when to act, which helps you plan negotiations and any needed work before closing.

How to test correctly

Pick a test type

• Short‑term tests: usually 2 to 7 days for real estate and up to 90 days, faster but more affected by short‑term conditions.
• Long‑term tests: 90+ days and best for year‑round average.
• Continuous monitors: electronic devices often used by professionals for detailed hourly data. Review the basics in this EPA test‑type overview.

DIY or professional

You can use a lab‑analyzed kit from a retailer or order one online. For real estate deals, a report from a nationally certified tester is often preferred. The CDC’s testing overview covers options and what to expect.

Place the device right

Follow the instructions that come with your device or your tester’s protocol. Standard placement rules include:

• Test the lowest livable level used regularly (finished basement if occupied).
• Position 20 inches to 6 feet above the floor, at least 3 feet from exterior doors or windows, and at least 1 foot from exterior walls.
• Avoid kitchens, baths, laundry rooms, direct sunlight, heat sources, and high humidity; do not place in closets.
• Maintain closed‑house conditions for short‑term tests and leave the device undisturbed. Public programs outline similar steps, such as the guidance noted on Minnesota’s radon testing page.

Make sense of your results

• Below 2.0 pCi/L: This is a typical result. Retest every 2 to 5 years or if conditions change.
• 2.0 to 3.9 pCi/L: Consider a long‑term test to confirm your year‑round average and explore practical reduction options.
• 4.0 pCi/L or higher: Do a follow‑up test promptly. If confirmed, plan mitigation. See the EPA’s follow‑up and action guidance for next steps.

Radon varies with house design, foundation type, and even between neighbors. A prior owner’s or neighbor’s reading is not a substitute for testing your home.

If levels are high: fix options

Common mitigation systems

The most common solution is active soil depressurization. A pipe and fan draw soil gas from beneath the slab or membrane and vent it above the roof. For crawlspaces, a sealed vapor barrier with sub‑membrane suction is typical. Learn more about methods and expectations from National Radon Program Services.

Sealing cracks and openings can help but is rarely sufficient on its own. If your home uses a private well, water treatment options are different and should be evaluated separately.

Typical costs in context

Most retrofit systems fall in a typical national range of about 800 to 2,500 dollars, with averages near 1,200 dollars depending on house size and foundation. Many systems reduce levels below 4.0 pCi/L, and often below 2.0 pCi/L. See cost and performance expectations from National Radon Program Services.

Pick the right pro in Arkansas

Arkansas does not license radon contractors at the state level. The Arkansas Department of Health points homeowners to nationally certified professionals through programs like NRPP or NRSB. Review ADH guidance here and plan to hire nationally certified providers: Arkansas Department of Health radon information and an example NRPP directory listing.

Quick checklist for Centerton owners

1. Choose your test: short‑term for quick answers or long‑term for the best average. See the EPA’s test‑type overview.

2. Set conditions and place the device correctly. Follow closed‑house rules and standard placement steps, as outlined by public health guidance like this testing page.

3. Read and react to results:

• Under 2.0 pCi/L: Retest every 2 to 5 years.
• 2.0 to 3.9 pCi/L: Consider confirmation and reduction.
• 4.0 pCi/L or higher: Confirm and plan mitigation. The EPA’s follow‑up guidance explains options.

4. Hire the right help if needed: Use nationally certified professionals. Start with ADH information and the NRPP directory linked above.

Work with a local guide

Radon can feel technical, but the process is straightforward when you have a plan. If you’re buying, you can build testing into your inspection window and negotiate confident solutions. If you’re selling, proactive testing and clear documentation can protect your timeline and keep buyers at ease.

Have questions about timing a test during your Centerton purchase or prepping your home for market? Reach out to Sammie Beaver for practical, local guidance that fits your goals.

FAQs

Do I need to test my Centerton home if my neighbor’s result was low?

• Yes. Radon can vary widely from house to house, so you should test your own home rather than relying on a neighbor’s reading.

What is the EPA action level for radon, and what does it mean?

• The EPA recommends taking action at 4.0 pCi/L or higher. Many experts also suggest considering steps to reduce exposure between 2.0 and 3.9 pCi/L.

How long does a typical radon test take during a real estate deal?

• Most short‑term tests take 2 to 7 days, with quick lab turnaround. If the result is elevated, plan for a follow‑up test and allow time for mitigation if needed.

How often should I retest my Centerton home?

• Retest every 2 to 5 years, after major renovations, and after installing a mitigation system. Test sooner if you change HVAC or foundation conditions.

Who should I hire to mitigate radon in Arkansas?

• Choose nationally certified professionals (NRPP or NRSB). Arkansas does not license radon contractors, so national credentials, references, and a written plan are key.