What is Radon and Why is it a Concern in Calgary?
If you own a home in Calgary or manage a residential property, understanding the dangers of radon gas isn’t optional—it’s essential. Calgary’s unique geology and building styles make radon accumulation a serious and often hidden indoor air quality issue. The Canadian guideline for radon concentration is 200 Bq/m³, but thousands of Calgary homes—especially in newer neighborhoods—frequently test well above this threshold. This invisible, odorless gas could pose long-term health risks if not mitigated properly.
High radon levels in your home? Calgary Radon Detection provides professional Radon Mitigation in Calgary with proven systems that reduce radon to safe levels. Our certified technicians handle everything from installation to post-mitigation testing. Get a free quote today.
What is radon gas?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil, rock, and water breaks down. It seeps into buildings through foundation cracks, floor-wall joints, and service openings. Once inside, it can accumulate to dangerous levels—particularly in sealed or energy-efficient homes that lack adequate ventilation. Despite being odorless and tasteless, radon is anything but harmless. It builds up silently over time and may go undetected without a professional radon test.
Calgary radon levels and housing risk zones
Calgary has some of the highest residential radon levels in Canada. Homes built after 1990 are especially vulnerable due to tighter building envelopes that restrict air flow. High-risk zones include many areas in the city’s northwest, southeast, and newer suburbs like Cranston, Tuscany, and Auburn Bay. In these zones, radon mitigation is not just a preventive measure—it’s often a necessary step to protect your family’s health.
Health risks of prolonged exposure
Long-term exposure to elevated radon gas significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Canada, after smoking. According to Health Canada, people living in homes with radon levels above 600 Bq/m³ for more than a decade can face lung cancer risks similar to daily tobacco use. Non-smokers are also at risk, especially children and the elderly, whose bodies are more sensitive to radiation.
Protecting your home starts with awareness. Professional radon testing is the only way to know your risk and take steps toward a safer indoor environment.
Understanding Radon Mitigation
Once radon is detected in your Calgary home, the next logical step is mitigation—but what exactly does that mean? Radon mitigation refers to the methods used to reduce indoor radon levels, and when done correctly, these systems can dramatically improve air quality. It’s not a one-size-fits-all process; mitigation solutions vary depending on your home’s foundation type, construction age, and radon test results.
What does a radon mitigation system do?
The core objective of any radon mitigation system is to prevent radon gas from accumulating in the living areas of a home. This is typically done by redirecting the radon before it enters the interior space. Most systems draw radon from beneath the foundation and vent it safely above the roofline. Effective mitigation can reduce radon levels by over 90%, restoring indoor air safety quickly and reliably.
Common systems: Sub-slab depressurization explained
By far the most effective method used in Calgary is sub-slab depressurization (SSD). This system involves drilling a small hole through the basement or slab floor and placing a suction pipe into the gravel layer beneath. A radon fan is then connected to draw radon out and vent it outdoors. SSD works in around 95% of Calgary homes and is considered the gold standard in the industry due to its consistent performance and adaptability.
Fan-based vs passive mitigation
Mitigation systems can be either passive or active. Passive systems rely on natural air flow and pressure differentials to vent radon, but they often fall short in Calgary’s variable climate. Fan-based (active) systems include an inline radon fan that creates strong, continuous suction, making them far more reliable. In most cases, certified radon professionals recommend installing a fan-powered setup to ensure stable, year-round protection.
Radon doesn't fix itself. If your levels are above 200 Bq/m³, professional radon removal in Calgary is the only proven solution. Calgary Radon Detection installs mitigation systems that lower radon levels by up to 99%. Request your free estimate.
Knowing your system type empowers smarter decisions. Professional assessments will determine the most suitable configuration for your property’s layout and risk profile.
Typical Cost of Radon Mitigation in Calgary
As a homeowner or property manager in Calgary, one of your biggest questions around radon mitigation is: How much will it cost? The short answer is—most systems are more affordable than you might think. On average, a full-service radon mitigation installation in Calgary costs between $2,200 and $3,000, depending on your property’s specific characteristics. Considering the long-term protection it offers, many homeowners view this as an extremely worthwhile investment in safety and peace of mind.
Average price range for typical homes
For standard single-family homes in Calgary with an accessible basement slab, professional radon mitigation generally falls within the $2,200 to $3,000 range. This includes materials, labour, and post-installation radon testing. Calgary Radon Detection offers accurate quotes after an in-home assessment, ensuring that homeowners never overpay or receive generic pricing.
Cost breakdown: equipment, labour, post-testing
A typical invoice may break down as follows:
- Radon Fan & PVC Venting: $500–$700
- Skilled Labour & Installation: $1,200–$1,500
- Post-Mitigation Radon Testing: $100–$200
- Optional Crawl Space Sealing or Concrete Work: $250+
Many Calgary providers also include diagnostic testing and airflow verification as part of the service, ensuring optimal long-term performance.
Factors that influence final pricing
Certain home features can increase the complexity and cost of the job. These include:
- Finished basements: More concealment and clean-patching may be required
- Crawlspaces: Usually require sealing and reinforced liners
- Multiple slab levels: Dual-system setups may be necessary
- Challenging venting paths: Extra PVC, elbows, or roof penetrations increase material time and effort
Knowing the layout of your home helps certified radon professionals provide accurate quotes and avoid surprise add-ons during installation.
Clear cost expectations make for confident decisions. An upfront home assessment is the best way to determine your exact radon solution and its pricing.
Is Radon Mitigation Worth the Cost?
A healthy Calgary family enjoying peace of mind in a radon-safe home, thanks to effective mitigation solutions.
If you’re wondering whether investing in a radon mitigation system is truly necessary, you’re not alone. Many Calgary homeowners and property managers hesitate when faced with upfront installation costs. But radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Canada, and ignoring it can lead to long-term financial and health consequences. Reducing radon is a long-term investment in your family’s health—and one that pays off in safety, comfort, and property value.
The true cost of doing nothing
Choosing not to act when radon levels are elevated can cost far more than installation charges. Elevated radon gas exposure has been linked directly to thousands of preventable lung cancer deaths across Canada annually. For Calgary homes with readings above the Health Canada threshold of 200 Bq/m³, failure to mitigate exposes residents to prolonged health risks—and can result in significant treatment expenses, insurance complications, or even legal liability in real estate transactions.
Health benefits and peace of mind
Mitigation systems like sub-slab depressurization drastically reduce indoor radon concentrations, giving Calgary families measurable peace of mind. A properly installed system not only removes radon gas from beneath your foundation but also stabilizes indoor air quality year-round. Many of our clients have shared personal relief after seeing their radon levels drop from over 300 Bq/m³ to well under 50 Bq/m³ following our certified installations.
“After our free test showed dangerous radon in our bungalow, Calgary Radon Detection helped us fix it fast—we instantly felt safer in our own home.”
Increased property value and energy advantages
In Calgary’s current real estate climate, having a mitigation system adds functional value to homes. Many buyers now ask for radon testing documentation or seek assurances that the property is radon-safe. A pre-installed system can streamline resale and enhance buyer confidence. Plus, properly sealed and ventilated basements can reduce drafts and increase HVAC efficiency, cutting monthly energy bills over time.
Worried about radon? We’re offering no-cost testing for homes in Calgary and surrounding areas. Protect your health — book your free radon test today!
How to Choose a Radon Mitigation Company in Calgary
A Calgary radon specialist conducts a precise basement assessment for accurate mitigation cost estimates.
Selecting a qualified radon mitigation contractor in Calgary isn’t just about comparing prices—it’s about trusting someone to protect your home and your family’s health. Whether you live in Crescent Heights, Mahogany, or Signal Hill, every Calgary property has unique radon risks based on local geology and construction style. Always look for certified expertise, clear pricing, and responsive local service.
What to look for in a radon contractor
A reputable radon contractor will conduct detailed diagnostics, provide written estimates, and explain which mitigation strategy is best for your home. Sub-slab depressurization is the gold standard, but it must be customized to each foundation type. Trustworthy providers will use continuous radon monitors to measure effectiveness post-installation and offer you clarity every step of the way.
Certifications, licensing and warranty importance
In Canada, radon mitigation professionals should be certified by the Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP). This ensures compliance with national guidelines and access to up-to-date radon science. Reputable contractors will also be licensed and insured in Alberta, provide warranties on fans and workmanship, and offer third-party testing to confirm success.
“Always look for a certified C-NRPP professional when hiring a radon contractor in Canada.”
Why local knowledge matters
Calgary’s soil conditions, weather, and homebuilding practices vary widely across neighborhoods. What works in an infill duplex in Bridgeland might not suit an older concrete foundation in Woodbine. Local radon experts understand how to route vent lines effectively, avoid weatherization issues, and prevent foundation damage while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Worried about radon? We’re offering no-cost testing for homes in Calgary and surrounding areas. Protect your health — book your free radon test today!
Why Choose Calgary Radon Detection?
Calgary families trust Calgary Radon Detection for safe, cost-effective radon mitigation solutions.
When health and safety are on the line, you want a mitigation specialist who gets it right the first time. That’s where Calgary Radon Detection stands apart. Founded in 2024, we bring fresh dedication to proven methods—combining advanced diagnostics and top-tier equipment with transparent service designed exclusively for homes in the Calgary region. Our team is committed to making your air safe with no hidden costs or guesswork.
Transparent pricing and no hidden costs
We believe Calgary families deserve clear, itemized pricing without surprise add-ons. Every consultation includes a free radon test and a detailed project breakdown—whether the solution involves installing a radon fan, venting pipes, sealed sump covers, or sub-slab diffusion channels. We walk you through every step, so you’re empowered to make smart, health-driven decisions.
Certified experts you can trust
All of our mitigation technicians are fully certified by C-NRPP and trained to treat each property with care. With successful installs across Beltline condos, Harvest Hills townhomes, and suburban single-family homes in Evergreen, our experience ensures the most efficient and enduring mitigation method for your structure—backed by data, not assumptions.
“Clients choose us for our certified work, no-cost testing, and consistent 5-star reviews.”
Real testimonials from Calgary families
We’re proud to have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners citywide. Whether from parents in Tuscany worried about their children’s bedrooms or seniors in Acadia seeking long-term home protection, the feedback is consistent: fast service, precise testing, and cleaner air they can actually feel. Our Google and HomeStars reviews tell the story best—families breathing easier thanks to Calgary Radon Detection.
Worried about radon? We’re offering no-cost testing for homes in Calgary and surrounding areas. Protect your health — book your free radon test today!
