How a radon project actually runs

1. 1. Measurement

   48 hours

   A continuous radon monitor or short-term test device is placed on the lowest lived-in level under closed-house conditions. We document temperature, humidity, and any tampering, because those conditions determine whether the number is trustworthy.

   • Closed-house conditions begin 12 hours before the test
   • Device placed 20 inches to 6 feet above the floor, away from exterior walls and drafts
   • Hour-by-hour data reviewed, not just the average

2. 2. Diagnostics

   1–2 hours

   If the result is elevated, we come back and measure how well air moves under your slab. Test holes are drilled, a vacuum is applied, and pressure is read at distant points. This is the step that determines suction point count — and the step most low bids skip.

   • Sub-slab communication testing at multiple points
   • Foundation walkthrough for cracks, joints, and open penetrations
   • Routing options reviewed with you before anything is priced

3. 3. Design and proposal

   Same or next day

   You get a written scope: number and location of suction points, fan model and its curve, pipe routing, sealing work, and the electrical plan. The price reflects that scope, not a square-footage table.

   • Fan selected from its performance curve against your measured conditions
   • Interior or exterior routing chosen with appearance and noise in mind
   • Every proposal includes the post-mitigation test

4. 4. Installation

   Most homes: one day

   Suction points are cored, pipe is run, the fan is mounted outside living space, and the exhaust terminates above the roofline away from windows. Accessible slab cracks and the perimeter joint are sealed, and a U-tube manometer is mounted where you can see it.

   • Fan mounted in an unconditioned space or outside, never under living space
   • Exhaust at least 10 feet from any operable window or opening
   • Manometer installed and explained before we leave

5. 5. Verification

   48 hours after 24 hours runtime

   The system runs for at least a day, then we retest. You receive a document with the pre-mitigation reading, the post-mitigation reading, the system design, and the fan specification.

   • Independent post-test, not a spot reading
   • If the target is not met, we return and adjust — that is part of the job

6. 6. Ownership and maintenance

   Ongoing

   Check the manometer monthly: the fluid should stay off-level. Fans typically run 5 to 10 years. Retest every two years, and after any major foundation, HVAC, or structural work.

   • Monthly manometer check takes five seconds
   • Retest every two years and after major home changes

What gets installed

A standard active sub-slab depressurization system, drawn to scale with the components labeled.