Radon Testing & Protection for New Ohio Homes
Building a new home in Central or Southwest Ohio? Don’t assume radon-resistant features are enough. Carl Woolwine has worked alongside Ohio builders for decades — and knows exactly why new construction still needs professional testing.
New Construction Radon in Ohio
Passive RRNC features — required by code since 2009 — reduce radon entry but rarely eliminate it in Ohio’s Zone 1 geology. They rely on natural pressure differentials that are often too weak against the uranium-rich limestone and glacial deposits beneath most Ohio new builds. Only a post-construction test confirms your actual level.
Carl has tested hundreds of code-compliant new Ohio homes that still measured above 4.0 pCi/L. He coordinates with builders pre-drywall and offers baseline testing, passive-to-active upgrades, and post-mitigation verification.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Builder coordination and pre-drywall rough-in consultation
- Verification of passive RRNC pipe placement and sealing
- Post-construction baseline CRM test (minimum 48-hour)
- Written test report with EPA context and interpretation
- Passive-to-active upgrade using existing RRNC rough-in pipe
- Fan selection, installation, and electrical connection
- Post-mitigation verification test confirming levels below 4.0 pCi/L
- Documentation suitable for home warranty or disclosure
Related reading
- Ohio Radon GuideCarl’s complete guide to Ohio radon risk, geology, and what homeowners need to know.
- Understanding Your Radon Test ResultsWhat pCi/L levels mean and how to interpret your new home’s baseline test.
- Sub-Slab DepressurizationThe technique used to convert passive RRNC pipes into active mitigation systems.
- About Carl WoolwineOhio ODH License #RC362 & #RS579 — Carl’s credentials and background.
Our New Construction Process
Transparent, professional, and designed around your family — not around our schedule.
Builder Coordination (Pre-Drywall)
Carl verifies sub-slab aggregate, vapor barrier, and passive PVC pipe placement before drywall goes up. Fixing these elements after the fact is expensive — catching them early isn’t.
Post-Construction Baseline Test
Once the home is closed up and HVAC is running, Carl places a CRM in the lowest livable level for 48 hours to establish your home’s true radon baseline under real conditions.
Results & Honest Assessment
Below 2.0 pCi/L: passive system is working — retest in two years. Between 2.0–4.0 pCi/L: Carl walks you through options. Above 4.0 pCi/L: passive-to-active upgrade is recommended.
Passive-to-Active Upgrade (If Needed)
Carl installs an inline fan at the top of the existing RRNC pipe chase and seals remaining entry points. Most upgrades are completed in a half-day visit with a verification test included.
Questions we hear from Ohio homeowners every day
We believe informed homeowners make better decisions. Here are honest, plain-English answers to the most common radon questions.
Still have questions?
We love talking to homeowners. No scripts, no sales pressure.
Read the full Ohio Radon Guide →
Sources: U.S. EPA — Radon · Ohio Dept. of Health Radon Program
My new home was built with radon-resistant features. Do I still need to test?
Yes. Passive RRNC reduces radon entry but doesn’t eliminate it in Ohio’s Zone 1 geology. Carl has tested many code-compliant new builds in Franklin, Delaware, Montgomery, and Warren counties that still came in above 4.0 pCi/L. Only a test confirms your actual level.
What is passive RRNC and why isn’t it always enough?
Passive RRNC — sub-slab aggregate, vapor barrier, and a vertical PVC vent pipe — allows radon to collect beneath the slab and escape upward passively. In Ohio’s high-radon geology, the natural draft isn’t strong enough. An active fan is typically needed to achieve adequate suction.
When is the best time to get Carl involved during new construction?
Before the vapor barrier and slab pour is ideal — that’s when rough-in pipe placement can be verified. The next best window is before drywall. Post-construction testing should happen after the home is fully closed with HVAC running, before closing or move-in.
How much does a passive-to-active upgrade cost on a new build?
Because the passive RRNC pipe is already in place, upgrades cost significantly less than installing a system from scratch. The main additions are the fan and electrical connection. Carl provides free estimates — call (614) 686-0000 for your specific layout.
Can I include radon mitigation documentation with my builder’s warranty?
Yes. Carl provides a written test report and post-mitigation verification certificate suitable for your home’s documentation package — increasingly important as buyer awareness of radon grows.
Should I test even if I’m buying a newly built spec home?
Yes. Spec homes are subject to the same Zone 1 geology as custom builds. If the builder’s contract doesn’t allow pre-closing testing, at minimum test within your first 90 days of occupancy.
Explore more
Every service we offer, and every community we serve, is connected to one mission: protecting Ohio families from radon.
RELATED SERVICES
Radon Testing
Professional CRM testing for any home — new or existing. 48-hour results with a full written report from a licensed Ohio technician.
Radon Mitigation
If your new home tests above 4.0 pCi/L, Carl designs and installs a custom mitigation system — guaranteed to reach safe levels.
Real Estate Radon Testing
Buying a newly built home? Get an independent radon test before closing — not just the builder’s assurance.
SERVICE NEAR YOU
New Construction in Columbus, OH
The Columbus metro is one of Ohio’s fastest-growing new construction markets — and one of its highest-radon areas. ~40% of Franklin County homes exceed 4.0 pCi/L.
New Construction in Dayton, OH
The Miami Valley’s limestone and dolomite geology drives some of Ohio’s highest residential radon readings — new construction included.
New Construction in Cincinnati, OH
Warren, Butler, and Clermont counties are seeing significant new development — all in high-radon Ordovician limestone geology.
Ready to get started?
We respond within 24 hours. No pressure, no jargon — just honest guidance from Ohio’s radon experts.
Mon–Fri 8am–6pm · Sat 9am–2pm