Radon, McMansions, and Lung Risk in Colorado Springs

By Franklin Everett Shaw

March 11, 2026

Are you breathing easy in your Colorado Springs dream home? Many residents of sprawling McMansions in the shadow of Pikes Peak might unknowingly be inhaling a silent threat: radon. This invisible, odorless gas is a leading cause of lung cancer, and certain architectural features common in these larger homes, combined with Colorado’s unique geology, create a perfect storm for elevated radon levels.

Let’s dive into why your Colorado Springs McMansion could be a radon hotspot and, more importantly, what you can do about it.

Colorado’s geology is the first piece of the puzzle. The Front Range, including Colorado Springs, sits on uranium-rich granite. As uranium decays, it produces radon gas, which seeps up through the soil.

McMansions, with their large footprints and complex foundations, often exacerbate the problem. These homes typically have multiple slab-on-grade sections, crawl spaces, and basements, creating numerous entry points for radon. The “stack effect,” where warm air rises and creates a vacuum in the lower levels, further draws radon into the home.

Think of those expansive finished basements, a hallmark of many Colorado Springs McMansions. They’re often poorly ventilated and act as radon collection chambers.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to identifying potential radon problem areas in your Colorado Springs McMansion:

1. Foundation Cracks: Inspect your foundation walls and floors for cracks, even hairline fractures. Radon can easily penetrate these openings. Pay special attention to areas where pipes or utilities enter the house.

2. Sump Pits: If you have a sump pit, ensure it’s properly sealed. An open sump pit is a direct pathway for radon to enter your home.

3. Crawl Spaces: Crawl spaces are notorious for radon accumulation. Check for adequate ventilation and consider sealing the crawl space floor with a vapor barrier.

4. Basement Windows and Doors: Ensure basement windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent radon infiltration.

5. Areas with Earth Contact: Any area of your home that is in direct contact with the soil is a potential entry point. This includes slab-on-grade sections, basement walls, and even dirt floors in crawl spaces.

Now, let’s talk about DIY radon testing. While professional testing is recommended for accuracy, a DIY test can provide a preliminary indication of radon levels.

Here’s how to conduct a DIY radon test in your Colorado Springs McMansion:

1. Purchase a Radon Test Kit: You can find radon test kits at most hardware stores or online retailers. Look for kits certified by the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB).

2. Choose a Testing Location: Select the lowest livable level of your home, typically the basement. Avoid placing the test kit in areas with drafts, high humidity, or near exterior walls.

3. Follow the Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided with the test kit. This usually involves placing the detector in a designated location for a specific period, typically 2-7 days.

4. Mail the Test Kit: After the testing period, seal the test kit and mail it to the lab for analysis.

5. Review the Results: The lab will send you a report with the radon levels in your home. The EPA recommends mitigation if radon levels are 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher.

If your DIY test reveals elevated radon levels, it’s crucial to confirm the results with a professional radon test. A professional tester will use calibrated equipment and follow strict protocols to ensure accurate measurements.

Let’s move on to radon mitigation strategies specific to Colorado Springs and its unique challenges.

One common mistake homeowners make is attempting to seal cracks and openings without addressing the underlying source of radon. This is like putting a band-aid on a broken leg.

The most effective radon mitigation technique is sub-slab depressurization (SSD). This involves installing a vent pipe and fan to draw radon gas from beneath the foundation and exhaust it safely outside.

Here’s a simplified overview of the SSD process:

1. Drill a Hole: A hole is drilled through the foundation slab, typically in the basement.

2. Create a Suction Pit: A small pit is created beneath the slab to allow for air movement.

3. Install a Vent Pipe: A PVC pipe is inserted into the hole and sealed to the slab.

4. Install a Fan: A radon fan is installed in the vent pipe, typically in the attic or outside the house.

5. Seal Cracks and Openings: Cracks and openings in the foundation are sealed to prevent radon from entering the house through other pathways.

The fan creates a negative pressure beneath the slab, drawing radon gas away from the house and exhausting it outside.

In Colorado Springs, the clay-rich soil can sometimes hinder the effectiveness of SSD systems. The clay can restrict airflow beneath the slab, making it difficult to create adequate negative pressure. In these cases, multiple suction points may be required.

Another challenge is the presence of large rock formations beneath some homes in Colorado Springs. These rocks can create pathways for radon to travel, making it difficult to control with a standard SSD system. A professional radon mitigator will be able to assess the specific geological conditions and recommend the appropriate mitigation strategy.

Here are some local Colorado Springs resources for professional radon remediation:

• Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE): The CDPHE provides information on radon testing and mitigation, as well as a list of certified radon professionals in Colorado.
• Local Radon Mitigation Companies: Several reputable radon mitigation companies operate in Colorado Springs. Be sure to choose a company that is licensed and insured, and that has a proven track record of successful radon mitigation.

Long-term lung health monitoring is crucial, especially if you’ve been exposed to elevated radon levels. Talk to your doctor about lung cancer screening options. Early detection is key to improving outcomes.

Don’t let radon steal your peace of mind in your Colorado Springs McMansion. Take action today to test your home and mitigate any potential risks. Your health is worth it. Remember, breathing easy is a right, not a luxury.