Radon Testing & Radon Mitigation in El Paso County, CO

Look For Those Hidden Areas.

After pulling a stacked washer & dryer away from a basement wall, we found an access panel to the bathroom plumbing where there was quite a bit of exposed soil; exposed soil is potentially a high source of radon. A can of spray foam was used to seal the exposed soil (and the cracks and crevices around the foundation and tub) to reduce the amount radon gas emanating from the soil.

Earlier this year (2023) we mitigated a house in Calhan, CO. The original part of the home was built in the 1940's while the new addition was built in the early 2000's.  Because the home had two separate basement systems, where one of those basements had a sump pump and exterior drain tile,  the other did not. We originally planned to install a perimeter drain tile depressurization system (from the new addition) and connect with the sub-slab depressurization system (from the original side of the home).  The risers from both extraction points would then connect in the attic and have a single fan treat both areas.

On the day of installation, however, the home owner suggested a mitigation system using the sump pit (located in the basement) instead of digging down to the footing to reach the drain tile.   He directed us to the location where the plumbing went through the basement sub-floor and inside the bathroom wall where the shower plumbing was located.  We drilled through thefloor and inserted the pipe through the wall and up into the attic.  Unfortunately the trusses used for the vaulted ceiling left very little room to safely traverse the attic between the old side and new side of the home.  

We ultimately installed a sump depressurization system that went up through the bathroom wall from the basement. But instead of traversing the attic as we originally planned, we installed a second radon fan and penetrated the roof.  

When we were called in to mitigate this home, the homeowner had recently experienced a flooded basement from all the previous rain; although he had a sump pump. Upon our inspection, it turns out that the discharge pipe was damaged which wouldn't allow water to be discharged. The homeowner called in a plumber and the pipe was repaired. For added protection, Purple Mountain Radon installed a Water Watch Alarm in the sump basin to alert when water levels were too high. 

During the next rain fall, the Water Watch Alarm began alerting the home owner that water levels were reaching high levels. He called the same plumbing company who repaired the pipe and investigating further they discovered that drain tile was filled with debris. This was preventing the sump pump from discharging (and that damaged the pipe from the previous rainfall).  The home owner called us to let us know that the addition of the Water Watch Alarm helped to prevent the flooding of his basement. 

The mechanical room was located in the walkout basement, but in the front and middle part of the home (between a bedroom and family room).  The floor joists were used to run piping to the side and exterior of the home. 

This Fountain home was constructed in 1889 where floor joists were built directly onto the ground. A basement was later added which created a void area. Approximately 10' of this area adjacent to this basement was exposed just enough to encapsulate.  

1. Why they needed a radon mitigation system:
   The homeowner recognized the importance of reducing radon levels for the safety of their family and wanted a solution that would not compromise the aesthetics of their home.

2. Why the customer chose the company:
   They chose Purple Mountain Radon for its reputation in providing effective radon mitigation solutions while prioritizing customer preferences and home aesthetics.

3. What's causing the problem:
   The presence of radon gas, which can accumulate in homes from soil and rock, was a concern, particularly given the layout of the home and its proximity to a window well.

4. How We Fixed the Problem (Mitigation Process):

   • Installed a perimeter drain mitigation system to effectively reduce radon levels.
   • Bored through the side of a window well to allow for discreet placement of the radon exhaust pipe.
   • Routed the exhaust pipe beneath the fence to maintain a clean look.
   • Attached the exhaust pipe to the wall, ensuring it was as unobtrusive as possible.
   • Delivered the pipe and fittings ahead of installation for the homeowner to paint, enhancing the overall appearance.

5. What's unique about this situation:
   The homeowner's specific request for minimal street visibility and the custom approach taken to deliver and paint the mitigation components showcased a commitment to both safety and aesthetic considerations, making this project stand out.

Job Story Description

Why they needed a radon mitigation system:
Anthony Jiminez, a realtor representing the seller of a home in Colorado Springs, CO, sought to address elevated radon levels after a buyer’s test revealed high readings. Ensuring the home met safety standards was essential for completing the sale and providing peace of mind to the buyer.

Why the customer chose the company:
Anthony chose Purple Mountain Radon for their reputation as experts in radon mitigation and their ability to handle complex cases. Their responsiveness, professionalism, and commitment to delivering quality solutions stood out in a competitive market.

What was causing the problem:
The property, a split-level home with a garden-level slab and a crawlspace, presented multiple radon entry points. These structural features, combined with high radon levels, required a specialized and integrated mitigation approach.

How we fixed the problem (Mitigation Process):

• Identified key radon entry points during a thorough assessment of the slab and crawlspace areas.
• Installed a suction point under the stairs in the garden-level slab to address radon infiltration.
• Connected the suction point with the sub-membrane system in the crawlspace for comprehensive mitigation coverage.
• Strategically placed piping and a radon fan to optimize airflow and radon reduction while ensuring the system blended with the property’s design.

What was challenging or unique about this project:
The tight space under the stairs presented a challenge for drilling the suction point, but the team skillfully maneuvered the drill and equipment to complete the job efficiently without compromising the system’s effectiveness.

What the customer had to say:
“Purple Mountain Radon made what seemed like a complex issue feel simple and straightforward. Their professionalism and attention to detail were exceptional.” – Anthony

By choosing Purple Mountain Radon, this home now offers a safer, healthier environment, setting the stage for a successful sale and peace of mind for the future homeowners.