Radon Mitigation System Installation & Crawlspaces - Madison, WI Home Tutorial - Video #2

Crawlspace Radon Mitigation by Wisconsin Radon Services

Phase two of the crawlspace involves making sure the plastic is covering the crawlspace fill material (dirt, sand, gravel etc). Close attention should be paid to any columns, pillars, sewer pipes, water lines etc to ensure the gas wont find an easy escape route from under the plastic into the open air of the crawlspace (then into breathable areas).

Care must also be taken that any seams within the crawlspace are properly sealed as well. The plastic is pulled up along the walls and secured with concrete “smacks” or other anchors. Please see the third video for further explanation of the sealing process. Haven't watched Crawlspace Radon Mitigation Video #1 yet? You can view it here.

FAQ...Crawlspaces or Crawl Spaces, no matter how you spell it can be very difficult areas the prep for Radon Mitigation. Homes and Businesses in Madison, Wisconsin Dells, Janesville, Beaver Dam, and across all of Southern Wisconsin have very different crawl spaces requiring different a preparation and installation process.

Wisconsin Radon Services are a Licensed and Insured Radon Contractor focusing on Radon Testing, Radon Mitigation System Installation, and Radon Mitigation System Service and Repair.
Please check out the video below and visit us for more Radon related tips, tricks, and FAQ's at Wisconsin Radon Services.com

City of Madison 10yr Smoke Detector Warning - Be an informed home owner

OWN A HOME IN MADISON, WISCONSIN?

Smoke detector facts from J&K Security Solutions...Maybe you haven't realized yet but, the 10-year cycle on required smoke alarms is upon us. It was the spring of 2009 that the original ordinance went into place. In speaking with Kidde, they said at the 10 year mark the smoke alarms will start chirping continually until replaced. 

We here at J&K Security Solutions would like to be part of your ongoing safety regarding this situation. We would like to help with the coordination and sale of the replacement units, before the old ones start chirping. We will offer the 10-year smoke detector in quantities of 100 or more at special pricing. Please contact Jeff Beckmann, at jeff@jksecurity.com, or 608-663-2106 for more info.

Below you'll find the full press release from the city of Madison:

In March 2009, the Madison Common Council approved a change to the smoke alarm ordinance PDF in the City of Madison. The changes are highlighted below:

All residential buildings within the City of Madison, with the exception of owner-occupied single-family homes, shall have smoke alarms in place which meet one of the following requirements:

• Hardwired smoke alarm with a battery backup. Currently-installed hardwired smoke alarms with no battery backup shall be allowed to remain in service until such time as the device must be replaced in accordance with manufacturer instructions. Unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer, no smoke alarm shall remain in service longer than ten years.

• Smoke alarm powered by a non-replaceable, non-removable battery capable of powering the alarm for a minimum of ten years.

All residential buildings within the City of Madison, with the exception of owner-occupied single-family homes, shall have smoke alarms installed in the following areas:

1.  In each bedroom
2. In each sleeping area
3. Within six feet of each door leading to a bedroom or sleeping area of each unit
4.  On each floor of the building

All owner-occupied single-family residences shall install smoke alarms that meet the criteria for this ordinance.

All smoke alarms installed shall be installed in accordance with all applicable state building codes and NFPA 72 (current edition).

The owner of any residential building shall replace the battery in hardwired smoke alarms that meet the criteria of this ordinance each time the lease is renewed or as recommended by the manufacturer, whichever time is shorter.

Fire safety education is required for all tenants. Upon each new lease, and at least once every 12 months for continuing tenants, the owner shall provided tenants with fire safety educational materials as provided by the Madison Fire Department.

Disclaimer: This merely highlights parts of the approved ordinance and does not cover it in its entirety. The Madison Fire Department thanks you for your help in making the City of Madison a safer place to live.
 

Please contact Jeff Beckmann, jeff@jksecurity.com, or 608-663-2106 for more info.

CHOOSING A RADON CONTRACTOR - Wisconsin Radon Services in Madison

COMPARING APPLES TO APPLES WITH RADON COMPANIES

Is this a Certified Radon Contractor?

Wisconsin Does NOT require a contractor is certified to install radon systems. Many are not. Don't be fooled by the person who says, I've been doing it for 10 years,” when you ask if he/she is certified.

SEE Wisconsinradonservices.com WALL OF SHAME for systems installed by non certified companies, plumbers, builders and do-it-yourselfers. See Wisconsin Department of Health Services for current Certified Contractor Listings.

Be Weary Of Quick Estimates

Every house can be different. Be careful of a website that boasts a set price per installation. If speaking to a contractor ask if its an ESTIMATE or a QUOTE. Get it in writing. An experienced contractor can give and accurate quote in about 10 minutes over the phone if the correct clarifying questions are asked. They should be comfortable answering questions.

DOES THE QUOTE INCLUDE CODE COMPLIANT ELECTRICAL WORK?

Some Radon companies don't include electrical (or tell you unless you ask) and you will need to hire an electrician once they are done. This could cost a few hundred extra dollars from that original bid.

Where Should The System Go?

A good combination of functionality and cosmetics is important. Most Radon contractors are radon-SEE WALL OF SHAME).
contractor-beaver-damn-wisconsin not certified/licensed in electrical and will direct where the system is placed based on existing outdoor outlets or install systems with little electrical code knowledge (i.e. passing extension cords through exterior walls, not installing disconnects to service Radon fans and improper waterproofing of outdoor components -

Where Is The Contractor Located?

Some may advertise they are, “in your area” but are using creative marketing to get your business. Ask questions. These become important if there are any follow up trips necessary. What if the fan goes out in a year? Where will they be coming from to replace it? Many of the common Radon fan manufacturers contain 1-5 year warranties. If the contractor is driving from Milwaukee to Madison it could become an issue.

What Are You Paying For?

A contractor should be able to explain the Radon System Components to you ie: make and model of the Radon fans being used (to include energy consumption, (yearly / monthly) wattage etc, what size and schedule of PVC pipe being used, the type of system indoor/outdoor - Active Soil Depressurization and how it works. What happens to the system in cold weather? Is there a trip charge within five years of the fan going out? Is there a warranty/guarantee included? Does it transfer between owners?

Final Check

Check their website. Does it look professional? Are there reviews? Facebook and Google can offer good checkpoints for reviews. Read at least 10-15 reviews, a pattern should develop. A contractor should be personable and professional and not pressure you into setting a date for installation. DON'T FEEL RUSHED OR PRESSURED. CALL WISCONSIN RADON SERVICES AT (608) 279-7853 FOR MORE INFORMATION

Wisconsin Radon Services LLC offers Radon Testing, Radon Mitigation System Installation, and Radon Mitigation System Service & Repair.

Please give us call at (608) 279-7853 for a certified test today or simply fill out our online contact form by clicking the button below and we'll get right back to you. Make sure to mention this ad to take advantage of our $25.00 Off limited time coupon.