Iowa — 700,000+ metro

Radon in Des Moines,
IA

Des Moines sits in Iowa's glacially-deposited till plain — one of the highest-radon regions in the nation. The EPA estimates 71% of Iowa homes exceed the 4 pCi/L action level, and Des Moines metro is no exception.

Risk Level

Very High Risk

5–12 pCi/L

Typical range (area avg.)

EPA action level: 4 pCi/L

Why Des Moines Has Very High Risk Radon

The city is underlain by glacial till from multiple ice sheets, which contains abundant uranium-bearing minerals. As uranium decays, radon migrates readily through the coarse glacial sediments into home foundations.

Local Housing and Radon Risk

Des Moines has a high proportion of older ranch-style and split-level homes with unfinished basements — the style most susceptible to radon entry. Many homes were built before radon-resistant construction techniques became standard in the 1990s.

Testing Advice for Des Moines Residents

Test in your lowest livable area — basement or first floor if no basement. Iowa State University Extension recommends placing test kits in the basement for 48–96 hours (short-term) or 90+ days (long-term). Long-term tests are more accurate for year-round planning.

How to Test Your Des Moines Home

Step 1: Choose Your Test Type

For initial screening, a charcoal short-term test kit ($12–$25) placed for 48–96 hours provides a quick result. For the most accurate reading, a long-term alpha-track test ($20–$35) left in place for 90+ days accounts for seasonal variation — especially important in Des Moines's climate.

Step 2: Place the Test Correctly

Test in your lowest livable level — basement if you have one, otherwise the first floor. Keep the test 20 inches from the floor, away from windows and exterior walls. Close windows and doors 12 hours before and during the test for accurate results.

Step 3: Interpret Your Results

Below 2 pCi/L: low concern, retest every 2 years. 2–4 pCi/L: consider mitigation, retest in 2 years. 4 pCi/L or higher: the EPA recommends mitigation. Above 8 pCi/L: prioritize mitigation promptly.

Step 4: Hire a Certified Mitigator if Needed

If your test result is at or above 4 pCi/L, hire a certified radon mitigator. In Iowa, always verify your contractor's state certification. Sub-slab depressurization — the most effective mitigation method — typically costs $900–$1,600 installed in the Des Moines area.

Frequently Asked Questions — Radon in Des Moines

Is radon a real problem in Des Moines?

Yes. Des Moines sits in Iowa's glacially-deposited till plain — one of the highest-radon regions in the nation. The EPA estimates 71% of Iowa homes exceed the 4 pCi/L action level, and Des Moines metro is no exception. The EPA recommends all homes be tested regardless of location — radon levels can vary significantly even between neighboring properties.

How much does radon mitigation cost in this area?

In the Des Moines area, professional radon mitigation (sub-slab depressurization) typically costs $900–$1,600 installed. This is a one-time cost that reduces radon by 50–99%. The system requires minimal maintenance and a mitigator can typically complete the work in 3–5 hours.

Should I test if I have a new home?

Absolutely. New homes built with radon-resistant features still show elevated levels in testing — construction conditions and local geology vary too much to assume any home is safe. Test within the first year of occupancy, especially if your home has a basement.

Can I test radon myself, or do I need a professional?

DIY testing is reliable and recommended as a first step. Short-term kits ($12–$25) and long-term kits ($20–$35) are accurate when placed and returned correctly. Professional testing is only required for real estate transactions in some states. If your DIY test shows elevated levels, use a certified professional for both confirmation testing and mitigation.