When it comes to radon mitigation, not all homes—and not all contractors—are created equal.

One of the biggest misconceptions homeowners have is that radon mitigation is a simple, standard process that works the same for every house. The truth is, the age and construction style of your home significantly impact the approach, materials, and expertise required to properly reduce radon levels.

Older Homes Require Specialized Knowledge

If your home was built in the 1800s or early 1900s, there’s a good chance it has a stone foundation, crawl spaces, fieldstone walls, or other unique construction elements. These older features create very different airflow patterns and can make sealing and depressurizing much more complex than in newer homes.

Many radon contractors—even certified ones—are simply not experienced with the intricacies of older homes. Without the right knowledge and techniques, their systems may underperform, or worse, fail to protect your family altogether.

At Wisconsin Radon Services, we’ve worked on everything from historic farmhouses to modern new builds. We understand the structural nuances that come with aging homes, and we’re trained to design custom solutions that work.

New Homes Aren’t Always Simple Either

Don’t be fooled into thinking new construction means radon isn’t a concern. In fact, many newly built homes are airtight and energy-efficient, which can actually trap radon inside more easily than in draftier old homes. While newer homes might offer more consistency in construction, the same level of care and professional design is needed to ensure radon levels stay within safe limits.

What Homeowners Should Ask Before Hiring a Radon Contractor

Before you let any company install a mitigation system—especially in an older home—be sure to ask the right questions:

  • Are you certified for radon mitigation by the NRPP or NRSB?
  • Do you have experience working on older homes (1800s-1900s)?
  • Can you provide proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation?
  • Are you a licensed electrician with insurance coverage for that aspect of the install as well? (if you are not using a licensed electrician when performing electrical work, they are not insured)
  • What kind of warranty do you offer on your systems?
  • How do you approach mitigation in homes with fieldstone or crawl spaces?

 

*If a contractor can’t answer these questions confidently—or doesn’t seem familiar with older home challenges—it’s a red flag.*

Protect Your Investment and Your Health

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., and it doesn’t discriminate between old or new homes. Whether you live in a 150-year-old farmhouse or a brand-new development, proper mitigation is essential.

At Wisconsin Radon Services, we take pride in being both certified and experienced, with full insurance coverage and a reputation for getting it right the first time. Our goal is to deliver peace of mind—no matter the age or style of your home.

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Need a second opinion or want a free consultation?
We’re happy to answer your questions and walk you through what’s best for your home.

Contact us today to schedule your radon assessment.