Great question from one of our Facebook followers! I decided to let our own mitigation installation specialist, Rich Tweedy, provide the answer.
The first and simplest reason a radon mitigation system is …UGLY:
“The mitigation system designer and/or installer simply didn’t want to put the time or energy into it. In the industry, we call it a “Poke and Hope” This means, they poke a hole for the fan installation, using the shortest route possible to the suction point and hope it produces results. Why would companies do this? Less cost in materials, less time on the install, less skill required and unfortunately for the homeowner, usually the MOST unsightly.”
Another major reason why a radon mitigation system can be UGLY:
“The goal is obviously to create a system that reduces radon to an acceptable, safe level in your home. As licensed installers, we are required by the state to comply with code and construction types. Different types of construction require different types of installation methods. It’s like a puzzle. Working with the code requirements and the construction type of the home so that all pieces fit nicely together to make the big picture.”
“Here’s where the tricky part comes in. We specialize in both commercial and residential, often it’s someone’s home we are working in which is very personal. The aesthetic piece is HUGE for the homeowner and understandably so. We never want to create a system where every time the homeowner pulls up at the end of the day or walks by it they cringe because it’s so unsightly. My goal as a professional installer is find the best solution to satisfy all three factors. Unfortunate for the homeowner, sometimes the option is only fulfilling the mandated code and construction aspect.”
“Often, when I’m designing a system in a home that has aesthetic challenges, I try and think of the home as if it were my family’s, which always prompts me to think of the emotional impact my work will have and what can I do to make it the best of all three criteria. At the end of the day, I comply with the rules factoring in construction type and code above all things. This is why experience is crucial. Knowing what is, and is not acceptable practice per the state and complying with it is important, especially for the effectiveness of the system.”
“People hire SRE HomeServices for our experience, quality of workmanship, and integrity. We take the time to discuss the system in detail during our no obligation, free consultation. This includes being upfront about any unsightly components. (perception… I dare not assume what is aesthetically acceptable for our client.) I simply explain where the various components will initiate and terminate, like the fan or the exterior piping. If they aren’t comfortable with it, I always double check my options but sometimes it’s in the best interest for us to part ways. I have had to explain to a few customers that we can’t meet the aesthetic wishes, i wish them the best on hiring another company who may be able to create a system with aesthetics being the #1 criteria. I guess you can call it a ‘mitigation break up’. Like I said, that’s a tough one because maybe they will find someone who will bend the rules just to make a few dollars, but it’s not how I’m wired and I like to sleep at night with a clean conscience”?
There you have it. The inside scoop on why radon mitigation systems can be ugly. If you are interested in learning more about construction types, take a look at our other blog: Cost of radon mitigation and construction types .