Q: Weβre thinking of building a house on a lot near an old capped landfill. The landfill is about 600 feet away from the site. Is there any increased risk of radon in this house because of the landfill? And can we test the site for radon exposure before we build?
A:Β It doesnβt seem like there would be much risk of radon exposure, but there is no way of knowing for sure before you build. You have to wait until the home is finished to do a test. However, as you build the house, you can install a passive piping system in the walls that would be there later if you detect radon. The pipes would be there, but you wouldnβt install the fans on the roof unless you come up with positive radon readings later. The plastic pipes would not cost a great deal to install as you build.
For more do-it-yourself tips, go to rosieonthehouse.com. An Arizona home-building and remodeling industry expert for 25 years, Rosie Romero is the host of the syndicated Saturday morning Rosie on the House radio program, heard locally from 8-11 a.m. on KNST-AM (790) in Tucson and KGVY-AM (1080) and -FM (100.7) in Green Valley. Call 888-767-4348.
