You might know this as radon mitigation. Same work, either name. We install radon mitigation systems — a sub-slab suction point, sealed entry routes, and a fan that vents above the roofline. We test after the system runs, because a fan and a pipe prove nothing on their own.
Foundation type, sub-slab material and permeability, and existing sump or drain tile are assessed. This determines how many suction points are needed and where they go.
A hole is cut through the slab and material excavated beneath to create a collection pit. Mixed foundations with a basement and a crawl space commonly need more than one point.
Slab cracks, the perimeter joint, sump lids and utility penetrations are sealed. This is not a mitigation method on its own but it makes the fan far more effective.
PVC runs from the suction point to the fan and out above the roofline. Interior routing through conditioned space looks better; exterior routing is cheaper and easier to service.
A continuously running fan sized to the static pressure of your soil, mounted outside conditioned space, with a manometer so you can see at a glance that the system is working.
A follow-up test after the system has run confirms the level actually came down. Without it you have a fan and a pipe but no evidence it did anything.
If you are seeing any of this, call us before it gets more expensive.
| What you are seeing | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Test result at or above 4 pCi/L | EPA recommends fixing; mitigation is warranted |
| Test result between 2 and 4 pCi/L | EPA says you may want to consider fixing |
| Manometer fluid level is equal on both sides | Fan is not running; system is not working |
| Never tested, regardless of neighborhood | Test first; levels vary greatly house to house |
Establish the actual level with a proper test before anything is designed. Short-term test kits are inexpensive and widely available; results guide whether and how much mitigation is warranted.
Foundation and sub-slab conditions assessed, sometimes with a communication test that measures how far suction extends from a trial point. This sets the number of suction points.
Slab cored, pit excavated below, pipe set and sealed. Cracks, joints and penetrations sealed so the fan is not simply pulling conditioned air from the house.
Pipe run to the fan location outside conditioned space, then to a discharge above the roofline and away from windows. A manometer is fitted so system status is visible.
After the system has run for the specified period, a follow-up test confirms the reduction. Keep that result; it is the document a future buyer will ask for.