Tucson Tiles: Radon Leaks Cracking Lung Savings?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 10, 2025

Imagine stepping into a Tucson home, a time capsule of mid-century design. The breeze whispers through jalousie windows, carrying the scent of desert blooms and… something else. Something unseen, potentially harmful: radon. And the culprit might be right under your feet, or rather, on your floors and walls: those charming “Tucson Tiles.”

These aren’t your average Home Depot ceramics. These are locally sourced, often containing trace amounts of uranium or radium, naturally occurring elements found in the earth. While beautiful and historically significant, they can, over time, release radon gas, a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that’s the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

So, how do you, as a responsible Tucson homeowner, determine if your beloved mid-century abode is harboring this silent threat? Let’s dive into a practical guide, tailored specifically for identifying and mitigating radon from “Tucson Tiles.”

First, identification is key. “Tucson Tiles” aren’t a specific brand, but rather a style and origin. Look for these characteristics:

• Age: Homes built in Tucson between the 1940s and 1970s are the most likely candidates.
• Location: Check floors, walls (especially in bathrooms and kitchens), and even decorative elements.
• Color and Texture: Common colors include earthy tones like reds, browns, oranges, and yellows. The texture can range from smooth to slightly rough, often with subtle variations in color and pattern within each tile. Think desert landscape.
• Size and Shape: Typically square or rectangular, often in sizes ranging from 4x4 inches to 12x12 inches.
• Grout: Older homes often have wider grout lines, which can also contribute to radon release if the grout itself contains similar materials.

A common mistake is assuming all old tiles are dangerous. Not all “Tucson Tiles” emit significant levels of radon. The key is testing.

DIY Radon Testing: A First Step

While professional testing is recommended for definitive results, a DIY test kit can provide an initial indication of radon levels. You can find these kits at local hardware stores like Lowe’s on East Speedway or online retailers. Look for kits certified by the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB).

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose the Right Kit: Opt for a short-term test kit (2-7 days) for a quick assessment. Long-term kits (90 days or more) provide a more accurate average radon level over time, but require more patience.
2. Prepare the Testing Area: Select the lowest livable level of your home, typically the basement or ground floor. Close windows and exterior doors for 12 hours before starting the test and keep them closed during the testing period. This helps to trap radon and provide a more accurate reading.
3. Place the Detector: Follow the kit instructions carefully. Usually, this involves placing the detector in a central location, away from drafts, direct sunlight, and high humidity areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
4. Record the Start and End Dates: This is crucial for accurate analysis.
5. Seal and Mail the Detector: After the testing period, seal the detector according to the instructions and mail it to the lab for analysis. The lab will send you the results, usually within a few weeks.

A common pitfall is improper kit placement. Don’t put the kit near vents or in areas with high air flow, as this can dilute the radon concentration and lead to a falsely low reading.

Understanding Your Results

Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The EPA recommends taking action to reduce radon levels if they are at or above 4 pCi/L. Even levels between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L warrant consideration of mitigation.

If your DIY test indicates elevated radon levels, don’t panic. It’s time for professional testing.

Professional Radon Testing in Tucson

Hiring a certified radon professional is crucial for accurate and reliable results. They use specialized equipment and follow strict protocols to ensure the test is conducted properly.

• Find a Certified Professional: Contact the Arizona Department of Health Services or the EPA for a list of certified radon testers in the Tucson area. Companies like Arizona Radon Defense and SWI Environmental Services are local options.
• Discuss Testing Options: A professional can recommend the best testing method for your home, considering factors like the presence of “Tucson Tiles” and the home’s construction.
• Review the Report: The professional will provide a detailed report outlining the radon levels in different areas of your home, along with recommendations for mitigation if necessary.

A challenge some homeowners face is the cost of professional testing. However, consider it an investment in your health and the value of your home.

Mitigation Strategies for “Tucson Tile” Radon

If professional testing confirms elevated radon levels, mitigation is essential. The best approach depends on the source and extent of the problem. Here are some common strategies, tailored for “Tucson Tile” radon in Tucson homes:

• Tile Sealing: Applying a sealant to the tiles and grout can help to reduce radon emissions. This is a relatively inexpensive option for minor radon issues. However, it’s crucial to use a sealant specifically designed for radon mitigation and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Increased Ventilation: Improving ventilation in the affected areas can help to dilute radon concentrations. This can involve installing exhaust fans, opening windows regularly, or using a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) to exchange indoor and outdoor air.
• Sub-Slab Depressurization (SSD): This is the most common and effective radon mitigation technique. It involves installing a pipe through the foundation and connecting it to a fan that draws radon gas from beneath the slab and vents it safely outside. While more expensive, SSD is often necessary for homes with significant radon problems.
• Tile Removal and Replacement: In extreme cases, removing the “Tucson Tiles” and replacing them with low-radon materials may be necessary. This is a more costly option, but it eliminates the source of the radon.

A common mistake is attempting DIY mitigation without proper knowledge or equipment. Radon mitigation requires specialized skills and equipment. Always hire a certified radon mitigation professional to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.

Cost-Effective Mitigation in Tucson

Mitigation costs can vary depending on the chosen method and the complexity of the installation. Here are some tips for keeping costs down:

• Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from several certified radon mitigation professionals to compare prices and services.
• Consider Energy Efficiency: When choosing mitigation equipment, such as fans, opt for energy-efficient models to minimize operating costs.
• Explore Rebates and Incentives: Check with your local utility company or the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality for potential rebates or incentives for radon mitigation.

Protecting Your Lung Health and Home Value

Radon is a serious health hazard, but it’s also a manageable one. By understanding the risks associated with “Tucson Tiles,” taking proactive steps to test your home, and implementing appropriate mitigation strategies, you can protect your lung health and maintain the value of your Tucson home. Don’t let the charm of mid-century design compromise your well-being. Take action today.