Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes and buildings through cracks and openings in the foundation, walls, and floors. Prolonged exposure to high levels of radon can lead to lung cancer, making it a significant health concern for homeowners. Removing radon from a home is essential, but the cost of radon mitigation can vary significantly.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the factors that influence radon removal costs and the cost implications.
Table of Contents
Factors Affecting Radon Removal Costs
Radon removal costs depend on several factors, including the type of foundation, location, labor and permits, and testing and inspection costs.
Foundation Type
The type of foundation in a home can significantly impact the cost of radon removal.
For instance, encapsulating a crawl space can range from $1,500 to $15,000, while installing a radon mitigation system in a home with a basement can cost between $800 and $2,500.
The cost of radon removal in homes with slab foundations can range from $1,200 to $2,500.
Location
The cost of radon removal can vary based on the location of the home. The national average cost to install a radon mitigation system is $1,019, with a typical range between $781 and $1,257.
However, the cost can be higher or lower depending on the location, the number of radon experts working in the area, and any EPA rules specific to the location.
For instance, homes in areas with high levels of radon may require more extensive mitigation systems, which can increase the cost.
Labor and Permits
Labor and permits can also affect the cost of radon removal. The labor cost is usually included in the project’s total price, and more experienced contractors will charge more.
Radon mitigation work might need a permit in some cities and towns, which usually costs between $25 and $150, and if the project involves more electrical work, more permits and inspections may be required.
Testing and Inspection Costs
Testing and inspection costs should also be considered when estimating the cost of radon removal.
A professional radon test can cost between $150 and $800, while a radon testing kit can cost between $12 and $250.
If a radon fan is needed, hiring a licensed electrician to wire and install it will add to the cost.
Cost Implications of Radon Removal
The cost of radon removal can range from $781 to over $15,000, depending on the foundation type, location, labor and permits, and testing and inspection costs.
The following are the cost implications of radon removal based on the type of foundation.
Crawl Space Encapsulation
Encapsulating a crawl space can range from $1,500 to $15,000, depending on the size of the crawl space and the extent of the radon mitigation system needed.
The cost includes installing a vapor barrier, sealing all cracks and openings, and installing a radon mitigation system to vent the radon gas outside the home.
Radon Mitigation System for Basements
Installing a radon mitigation system in a home with a basement can cost between $800 and $2,500, depending on the size of the basement and the extent of the radon mitigation system needed.
The cost includes installing a pipe system that extends from the basement to the roof, sealing all cracks and openings, and installing a radon mitigation fan to vent the radon gas outside the home.
Radon Mitigation System for Slab Foundations
The cost of radon removal in homes with slab foundations can range from $1,200 to $2,500, depending on the size of the home and the extent of the radon mitigation system needed.
The cost includes drilling a hole in the slab foundation, installing a pipe system that extends from the hole to the roof, sealing all cracks and openings, and installing a radon mitigation fan to vent the radon gas outside the home.
Conclusion
Radon removal is essential for maintaining a healthy home environment. The cost of radon removal can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of foundation, location, labor and permits, and testing and inspection costs.
Homeowners should consider these factors when estimating the cost of radon removal and hire a professional radon mitigation system installer to ensure the system is installed correctly and effectively reduces radon levels in the home.
