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): the mitigator installs a reinforced 6-12 mil polyethylene barrier sealed to the perimeter walls, then creates 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. All four foundation profiles have an established mitigation approach; the on-site assessment identifies which one your home needs.

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?

Radon mitigation across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky since 2019, with every install performed by an NRPP-credentialed local mitigator. Mon-Sat 8am-7pm.

Call (513) 960-3089

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