Posted by : Radon Mitigation
What must be done?
If your home's radon level is 4 picocuries per liter or more, the EPA recommends a radon mitigation system (sometimes called radon remediation) to be installed.
A typical method utilized to lessen the radon level is "sub slab depressurization". In this case, a suction point or points are determined and a pipe is inserted through the concrete slab floor. This pipe is connected to other PVC piping and a fan lies on the pipe outside the living area. The fan then draws the radon gas from beneath the home and vents it to the outside. A radon mitigation system may cost between $900-$2500.
Choosing a Mitigation Company
A professional mitigation company is your very best option for installation of a radon mitigation system.In lots of states, these businesses or folks are certified by a state regulatory agency such as the DEP (Department of Environmental Protection). If this isn't true where you live, then you need to look for a qualified mitigator who is NEHA (National Environmental Health Association) certified. When choosing a radon mitigation company, you should request their state or NEHA certification number, when they offer free estimates, and a warranty on the system.
Typically, the mitigation company will go to the home to determine the best configuration of the system and the size of the fan for that type of foundation a home is built on. An estimate of cost for any system can then be determined. After deciding on the contractor, plan on 1-2 days for installation.
As always, beware of the lowest bidder. Check for references, job examples, and also the amount of time the contractor has been in business.
Life After Radon Mitigation
Our recommendation is that a radon mitigation system be tested after installation. A test might be performed after the system has been operational for 24 hours or more. A short-term test is generally employed for the initial test. In some cases, the estimate provided by the contractor can include the retest by a professional company or radon test kits.
A follow-up test is suggested each year to monitor the system's continued effectiveness.