FAQ

Does my foundation type matter?

Direct answer

Yes. Slab and basement homes are easiest to mitigate via sub-slab depressurization. Crawl spaces require sealing and a vapor barrier first. Pier-and-beam homes need different strategies entirely.

More detail

Sub-slab depressurization (ASD) is the EPA-preferred mitigation method and works on slab and basement foundations because there is solid concrete to drill a suction pit through and to hold negative pressure beneath. Crawl-space mitigation requires sub-membrane depressurization (SMD): we install a reinforced 6-12 mil polyethylene barrier sealed to the perimeter walls, then create suction beneath that membrane. SMD is more expensive ($1,800-$3,500 typical) than ASD because it requires the membrane installation. Pier-and-beam homes (rare in Cincinnati but present in some pre-1900 stock) require either sealing the entire underside with a barrier-and-fan approach or addressing soil gas at the source via sub-soil ventilation lines, which is uncommon and significantly more expensive. The on-site assessment identifies foundation type and writes the quote against the appropriate strategy. Cincinnati foundation-mix reality: roughly 60% of pre-1980 Cincinnati housing has full basements; another 25% has slab-on-grade or partial basements; the remaining 15% has crawl spaces or mixed foundations. Newer construction (post-1995) skews more heavily toward slab-on-grade in subdivisions and full basements in higher-end custom builds. Our team handles all four foundation profiles with appropriate approach.

Authoritative sources

  • US EPA

    Cincinnati and surrounding counties sit in EPA Radon Zone 1, the highest-risk classification.

  • EPA Citizen's Guide to Radon

    EPA recommends mitigation above 4.0 pCi/L and consideration of mitigation between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L.

  • Ohio Department of Health

    Ohio Radon Program guidance on testing, mitigation, and contractor licensure.

Ready to get started in Cincinnati?

NRPP-credentialed Cincinnati radon mitigation team serving Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky since 2019. Mon-Sat 8am-7pm.

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