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.

1. Why they needed a radon mitigation system: The homeowner's primary concern was ensuring the long-term safety and health of their family. After discovering that radon levels were higher than acceptable limits in the home, they needed a reliable mitigation solution to reduce the radon risk.

2. Why the customer chose the company: The homeowner selected Purple Mountain Radon because of our reputation for delivering effective, professional solutions. Our clear communication and commitment to quality work gave them the confidence that we would solve the issue with minimal disruption.

3. What's causing the problem: The radon problem was primarily due to natural radon emissions from the soil underneath the foundation, which entered the home through small cracks and gaps.

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

   • Performed a detailed inspection to identify the best placement for the mitigation system.
   • Installed a strategic radon vent pipe system to draw radon gas from beneath the home.
   • Placed a radon fan to ensure proper ventilation and airflow.
   • Tested the system to confirm that radon levels were effectively reduced.
   • Provided the homeowner with a manometer to monitor the system's efficiency.

5. What's unique about this situation: This particular situation involved a home with a finished basement that had minimal space for installation. However, we were able to work around the space constraints and install the system discreetly, ensuring both performance and aesthetic appeal.

A family in Colorado Springs reached out to Purple Mountain Radon after noticing radon levels rising in their home, a year after purchase, despite initially testing below the recommended threshold. Concerned for their children’s safety, they sought a reliable solution.

Why they chose Purple Mountain Radon: The homeowner recognized our expertise in handling complex situations like partially encapsulated crawlspaces. Trust in our proven techniques and attention to detail set us apart.

What was causing the problem: The home’s crawlspace had been encapsulated, but gaps around posts and plumbing pipes left pathways for radon to enter, undermining the system's effectiveness.

How we fixed the problem:

• Installed a gas mat under the existing encapsulation barrier to create a complete seal.
• Integrated radon piping into the system for proper ventilation.
• Attached a high-performance radon fan to efficiently expel radon from the home.

What’s unique about this situation: Addressing the partially sealed encapsulation required a tailored approach. By enhancing the existing setup rather than starting over, we provided an efficient and cost-effective solution.

Your family’s safety matters—partner with Purple Mountain Radon for a custom mitigation plan that fits your home’s needs!

1. Why they needed a radon mitigation system:
   The homeowner in Colorado Springs needed a radon mitigation system due to high radon levels detected in their basement, which also served as a home office. Prolonged exposure to elevated radon can be harmful, making it essential to reduce the risk for their family's health.

2. Why the customer chose the company:
   The customer selected Purple Mountain Radon after seeing the successful installation of a similar radon mitigation system at a neighbor's home. The neighbor’s system utilized window wells connected to perimeter drains, which the customer found effective and wanted for their own property.

3. What's causing the problem:
   The problem was caused by radon seeping into the basement through cracks and gaps in the foundation, particularly through the window wells. This allowed radon to accumulate, creating a risk for the homeowner, especially with the basement being used as a workspace.

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

   • Installed a perimeter drain radon mitigation system through one of the home’s window wells.
   • Sealed the sump lid to ensure an airtight system, preventing radon from entering the home.
   • The system was designed to efficiently draw radon out and vent it safely outside, reducing the concentration in the home’s living spaces.

5. What's unique about this situation:
   This job was unique because the homeowner specifically requested a mitigation system like the one installed at their neighbor’s home, which involved utilizing the existing window wells and perimeter drains. This tailored approach demonstrated the homeowner’s proactive decision to ensure their workspace was radon-free while also keeping the system discreet and effective.

1. Why they needed a radon mitigation system:
   The homeowner was concerned about high radon levels in their Colorado Springs home, especially with a newborn in the house. Radon exposure is a serious health risk, prompting the need for a mitigation solution.

2. Why the customer chose the company:
   Purple Mountain Radon was selected due to their expertise in radon mitigation and their ability to provide a customized solution to meet the homeowner's specific needs, including both safety and functionality.

3. What's causing the problem:
   The radon problem was traced back to an un-encapsulated crawlspace with exposed soil, allowing radon gas to enter the home.

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

   • Encapsulated the crawlspace with a 6-mil vapor barrier to prevent radon from entering.
   • Attached the vapor barrier to the radon mitigation system for efficient gas extraction.
   • Installed a 20mil vapor barrier and a drainage mat in part of the crawlspace to provide extra protection and improve airflow, as requested by the homeowner for storage use.
   • Connected the radon system to the exterior venting system for long-term radon mitigation.

5. What's unique about this situation:
   The homeowner’s request for part of the crawlspace to be used for storage required a customized solution. To accommodate this, Purple Mountain Radon used a stronger 20mil vapor barrier and added a drainage mat to maintain proper airflow beneath the barrier while still meeting radon mitigation standards.