Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the natural decay of uranium in soil and rock. It is odorless, colorless, and tasteless. Radon gas seeps into homes through cracks in the foundation, walls, and floors. Long-term exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. The only way to know if you have dangerous levels of radon in your home is to test for it. If radon levels are high, the recommended mitigation method is to install a radon reduction system. This system uses pipes and a fan to draw radon from under the home and vent it to the outdoors where it can dilute to harmless levels.
Installing a radon mitigation system can be a complex process, but it is possible for a homeowner to DIY if they have the right skills and knowledge. This article will go over the requirements, costs, steps, and risks of installing a radon system yourself versus hiring a professional. Read on to find out if DIY radon mitigation is right for you.
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Is DIY radon mitigation allowed?
Most states allow homeowners to install radon mitigation systems themselves. However, some states require that a licensed professional perform or oversee the work. Before deciding to DIY, check with your state radon office to understand the laws and requirements in your area. Some key regulations you may need to follow include:
– Using an active soil depressurization system (the most common and effective type of radon system).
– Installing fan and vent piping according to required specifications.
– Having the finished system tested to verify it reduces radon to safe levels.
– Filing the proper paperwork and documentation with local authorities after installation.
Even if DIY installation is legally allowed, many experts advise using a certified radon mitigation contractor for the work. Professionals have the proper training, tools and know-how to size, design and install these systems properly. Improper DIY installation can lead to system failure and continued radon exposure. Consult your state’s radon office to understand all legal requirements before attempting DIY radon mitigation.
Radon mitigation system parts
A radon reduction system is made up of the following main components:
Radon vent pipe
This PVC or ABS pipe (usually 3-4 inches in diameter) runs from the suction point under the foundation up through the house and roof to vent outdoors. The exact path depends on house construction. The vent pipe should run as straight as possible.
Junction box
A box installed in the attic or other location where the radon vent pipe connects to an exhaust pipe.
Exhaust pipe
PVC pipe (often 6 inches diameter) that runs from the junction box through the roof. It should vent at least 10 feet above the roof line away from windows, doors, or other openings.
Radon suction pit
A hole dug in the soil or slab under the foundation to draw radon gas from under the home. It is fitted with perforated piping.
Radon fan
An in-line fan installed on the vent pipe that provides constant suction to pull radon up from below the home. Fans are rated by CFM (cubic feet per minute) to match the size of the home.
Alarm system
A digital monitor and alarm to warn if the fan stops working due to power loss or other issues. This ensures continued radon reduction.
Other components like manometers, control panels, and fittings join all these parts together into a complete radon mitigation system. Proper materials, sizing, installation, and testing are key to effective DIY radon mitigation.
Cost of DIY vs. professional radon installation
Typical costs:
– Professional installation: $1,200 to $2,500
– DIY installation: $500 to $1,500
The exact radon system cost depends on:
– Home size – more piping, larger fan, increased labor for larger homes
– Installation complexity – simple vs. intricate layout, need for wall/roof repair
– Type of foundation – concrete slab is usually cheapest
– Choice of materials – PVC vs. ABS plastic, fan CFM rating
DIY installation can save 50% or more over professional installation. However, this assumes you correctly size all materials and install the system properly without any major issues.
Professionals have fixed overhead costs to cover training, tools, site visits, and other expenses. They also carry liability insurance. These costs are built into their service rates. With DIY, you avoid these added costs but take on more risk.
Consider the value of your time for the multi-day installation. Also factor in possible costs if you make mistakes that require re-work or call in a pro to fix problems. Some homeowners feel the potential savings are worth the DIY effort and risks. Others see value in hiring an expert to get the job done right.
Skills needed for DIY radon mitigation
Installing a radon system is achievable for non-professionals but requires certain skills and abilities:
– Familiarity with construction methods and safe use of power tools. Ability to drill through wood, concrete foundation, timbers, shingles, etc.
– Physical capability for sweaty work in cramped crawlspace areas
– Reading blueprints and house plans to map ideal pipe routing
– Measuring and cutting pipes, estimating material needs
– Working on ladders, rooftops, and other high areas safely
– Following technical specifications and building codes
– Testing and troubleshooting electrical and mechanical systems
– Persistence to handle unexpected challenges like hidden pipes or misaligned vents
You don’t need an advanced degree but solid DIY experience helps. Being handy around the house is a good baseline. Having a helper also makes the work easier. Consider if you have the needed skills before attempting a DIY radon installation.
DIY installation steps overview
The main steps for DIY radon mitigation:
1. Research local regulations and ensure DIY installation is allowed. Get any required permits or pre-approvals.
2. Choose an effective system design and buy all needed materials.
3. Map out exact locations for fan, piping route, suction point.
4. Install the piping, fan, junction box, electrical connections, suction point.
5. Seal and test the system. Check for leaks, verify suction.
6. Perform radon test to confirm system reduces levels to under 4 pCi/L.
7. File required paperwork with authorities and activate monitoring equipment.
Each step has many details. Designing an effective system and correctly sizing components takes some expertise. Poor pipe routing or faulty seals can render the system ineffective and require re-installation. Careful workmanship is key.
Professional installation advantages
Reasons you may want to hire a certified radon mitigation contractor instead of DIY:
– Ensures proper sizing, design, and materials selection
– Expert installation for best radon reduction
– Licensed and bonded in case of issues
– Completed fast with minimal disruption
– Verifies radon levels are fixed after installation
– Takes liability if problems occur later
– No need to learn technical skills yourself
– Reliable and professional
Pros have the experience to identify optimal vent locations, avoid installation issues, and guarantee the system performance. This gives peace of mind that your radon problem is solved. Although DIY installation costs less upfront, the value of expert reliability often makes it worthwhile to hire a professional.
Risks of DIY radon mitigation
Possible downsides and risks with DIY radon system installation:
– Inadequate radon reduction if system is undersized or installed improperly. Continued radon exposure.
– Fan or piping failures if wrong materials are used or installed incorrectly.
– Major costs to fix errors like rerouting pipes through inaccessible areas.
– Liability if improperly installed system causes water or other property damage.
– Hassle of learning technical skills like system design, building codes, pipe joining methods.
– Physical risks of ladder injuries, electrocution, falling through drywall, etc.
– Permits rejected or fines if work doesn’t meet state and local codes.
– Voided home insurance or warranties due to unapproved system modifications.
– Wasting money and effort if DIY system doesn’t pass required radon tests.
– Future problems if you sell the home and a professional finds issues with DIY workmanship.
Weigh these risks carefully before deciding if DIY installation will actually save you money long-term or create more headaches. Every situation is unique.
Conclusion
Installing a radon reduction system is a major project but can be DIYed by skilled homeowners who plan well. This lets you save 50% or more compared to hiring a professional. However, only pursue DIY radon mitigation if it’s allowed in your area and you have the necessary skills, time, and persistence for an involved construction project.
Be sure to educate yourself on proper system design, sizing, and installation. Avoid rookie mistakes that can lead to high fix-it costs and continued radon risks. Understand the liability if you do the work incorrectly. For most homeowners, hiring a certified radon contractor is the simpler, safer route to protect their family from radiation exposure. But with proper planning and motivation, taking on this DIY project yourself can pay off with substantial savings.