Reno's Radon: Cheap Siding Hiding Deadly Lung Harm?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

December 27, 2025

The desert wind whips through Reno, carrying with it not just dust and tumbleweeds, but a silent, invisible threat: radon. Many homeowners in older Reno neighborhoods, particularly those with homes built before 1980, are unknowingly living with elevated levels of this radioactive gas seeping into their homes. The culprit? It might be lurking in the very walls that shelter them – their siding.

The connection between siding and radon levels in Reno homes is a critical, often overlooked issue. We’re not talking about a slight increase; we’re talking about potentially dangerous levels that can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer. This isn’t fear-mongering; it’s a call to action, armed with knowledge and practical steps.

Let’s dive into the siding suspects. Homes built before 1980 in Reno often feature specific siding materials that, due to age and weathering, can become more permeable to soil gases like radon.

Asbestos Cement Siding: This was a popular choice for its fire resistance and durability. However, over time, asbestos cement siding can crack and degrade, creating pathways for radon to enter the home. The real danger here is twofold: the asbestos itself (if disturbed) and the increased permeability to radon.
Stucco (Certain Variations): While stucco is common in Reno, older applications, especially those lacking proper sealing or those mixed with porous aggregates, can be problematic. Cracks in stucco, exacerbated by Reno’s extreme temperature fluctuations, provide easy access for radon.
Wood Siding (Improperly Sealed): While less directly linked, older wood siding that hasn’t been properly maintained or sealed can allow radon to seep in through gaps and cracks, especially where it meets the foundation.

Why Reno specifically? The geology of the Reno area plays a significant role. The region sits on the eastern edge of the Sierra Nevada mountains, with underlying granite formations that can naturally contain higher levels of uranium, which decays into radon. This means the soil gas in Reno, on average, has a higher radon concentration than in many other parts of the country.

Now, let’s get practical. How do you, as a Reno homeowner, determine if your siding is contributing to a radon problem?

Step 1: Visual Inspection. Carefully examine your siding for cracks, gaps, and signs of degradation. Pay close attention to areas near the foundation, around windows and doors, and where different sections of siding meet. For asbestos cement siding, look for signs of crumbling or breakage. For stucco, check for extensive cracking, especially hairline cracks that can be difficult to spot.

Step 2: Understand Your Home’s History. If possible, research the materials used in your home’s construction. Building permits and historical records (available through the City of Reno or Washoe County) can sometimes provide clues about the type of siding used. If you suspect asbestos cement siding, do not attempt to remove or disturb it yourself. Contact a qualified asbestos abatement professional.

Step 3: Radon Testing – The Only Way to Know for Sure. Visual inspection is helpful, but it’s not a substitute for radon testing. This is where things get serious. The EPA recommends testing all homes for radon, regardless of age or location.

Here’s a Reno-specific guide to radon testing:

DIY Test Kits: These are readily available at hardware stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot in Reno, as well as online. They’re relatively inexpensive and easy to use. Follow the instructions carefully, placing the test kit in the lowest livable level of your home (e.g., the basement or first floor).
Professional Radon Testing: For a more accurate and reliable assessment, consider hiring a certified radon measurement professional. You can find a list of certified professionals on the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health website (search for “Nevada Radon Program”). A professional will use specialized equipment and follow strict protocols to ensure accurate results.

Step 4: Interpreting Your Results. Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The EPA recommends taking action to mitigate radon levels at or above 4 pCi/L. Even levels between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L should be considered for mitigation.

Step 5: Mitigation – Taking Action. If your radon levels are elevated, don’t panic. Radon mitigation systems are effective at reducing radon concentrations.

Here’s what you need to know about radon mitigation in Reno:

Sub-Slab Depressurization: This is the most common and effective mitigation technique. It involves installing a pipe through the foundation and using a fan to draw radon gas from beneath the slab and vent it safely outside.
Sealing Cracks and Openings: Sealing cracks in the foundation and walls can help reduce radon entry, but it’s usually not sufficient as a standalone mitigation method.
Hiring a Certified Mitigation Professional: This is crucial. A certified radon mitigation professional will design and install a system that is tailored to your home’s specific needs. Again, you can find a list of certified professionals on the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health website.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

Ignoring the Problem: This is the biggest mistake. Radon is a silent killer, and ignoring the potential risk won’t make it go away.
DIY Mitigation: Unless you have extensive experience in construction and radon mitigation, attempting to install a mitigation system yourself is not recommended. It’s a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
Using Uncertified Professionals: Always verify that the radon tester and mitigator you hire are certified by a reputable organization. Uncertified professionals may not follow proper protocols, leading to inaccurate results or ineffective mitigation.
Only Testing Once: Radon levels can fluctuate over time, so it’s a good idea to retest your home periodically, especially after making any significant changes to your home’s structure or ventilation.

Real-World Scenario:

Let’s say you live in a 1950s bungalow in the Wells Avenue neighborhood of Reno. Your home has asbestos cement siding that is showing signs of cracking and degradation. You purchase a DIY radon test kit from the local Ace Hardware and find that your radon levels are 6 pCi/L. You then contact a certified radon mitigation professional who recommends a sub-slab depressurization system. After the system is installed, your radon levels drop to below 1 pCi/L, significantly reducing your risk of lung cancer.

The link between older siding materials and elevated radon levels in Reno homes is a serious concern. By understanding the risks, taking proactive steps to test your home, and mitigating any problems, you can protect yourself and your family from the dangers of radon. Don’t wait – take action today. Your health depends on it.