Creating a Safer Radon Level for the Whole Family

After recently remodeling their lower level, this homeowner is now spending more time downstairs with family—and their kids are sleeping there too. That increased use prompted a radon inspection and revealed the need to revisit their old passive system. Originally installed alongside a sump pump and small waterproofing job, the passive system may not have been fully completed, as there’s no visible roof penetration. A vapor barrier was also added to the foundation wall, sealing the crack that previously allowed water into the space. For peace of mind, we’re upgrading the system with a powered fan, muffler, and potentially a new roof penetration. Attic access is available from the upstairs hallway to accommodate final routing.

This was a virtual appointment due to the weather so the team has no idea what the house looks like. That being said this was pretty much a service call for the homeowner's radon fan only and nothing else. The homeowner told me that the fan had been making these weird and crazy noises on and off for the past year and it was finally time for him to get this taken care of. Should be pretty simple and straight to the point just replacing the piping and the old radon fan.

Radon Mitigation and How it Helped

This was an old farmhouse, with its quirky layout and had elevated radon levels from 20–30, needed serious attention. The client did say they were tight on funds, the team devised a 4-point system within their budget -- for the fan setup, perfect for the short basement runs. Three points connect in a straight line, while a T-joint routes the fourth. The chambers are easy to spot— on the dog wash station, sump pump, HVAC, and the raised slab at the stair landing. Given their show dogs health protection, the homeowner insisted on a radon fan housing cover to keep curious noses away. The fan will discreetly exit at the back of the house, ensuring functionality and safety for their prized pups.

Met with Jennifer in this old farm house. A lot of stuff in unfinished basement and hard to get around and see things. Found out at the end that there is a sump pit under the stairs but could not view or access. The technician was told lid is nearly air tight so seal around it with caulking. Returned with radon levels of 24 and frequent health concerns. Jennifer was concerned about indoor air quality, humidity, and was all ready to move forward with their own radon mitigation system.

This will be an interior system that will run out from the sump pit in the utility room. There is also a sewage pit that I explained to the client where we do not touch the interior system since it will run up through the rim joist and out into the garage. The client was asking if we would be able to hide the PVC routing and tuck it away on the wall side of where the fridge is. We can then write it up into the garage and out the back side of the house to hide the extraction point through the roof. A Breathe EZ filter will also be installed. This all stem from the fact that the client's husband was diagnosed with Stage 2 lung cancer which is what prompted their inquiry into radon mitigation in the first place. They live on an acreage with a couple horses and two cute little donkeys.