Radon Mitigation in Colorado Springs, CO: High Altitude, High Radon

The Pikes Peak Granite Problem

Colorado Springs has a radon problem that's hard to overstate. The city is built directly on and around the Pikes Peak Batholith — a massive granitic intrusion that's among the most uranium-rich rock formations in the continental US. Uranium concentrations in this granite are 4–8 times higher than average crustal rock.

As that uranium decays, it produces prodigious quantities of radon gas. The gas migrates upward through fractured granite and overlying soils, concentrating beneath home foundations and entering living spaces. El Paso County testing data shows average levels well above 8 pCi/L — some neighborhoods in the foothills and Black Forest area consistently show averages of 15–25 pCi/L.

Altitude Makes It Worse

Colorado Springs sits at approximately 6,000–7,000 feet elevation. At this altitude:

• Atmospheric pressure is about 15–20% lower than at sea level
• The pressure differential between indoor air and sub-slab soil gas is more pronounced
• Homes are more tightly sealed for both weather and energy efficiency
• Natural ventilation is less effective as a dilution mechanism

The combination of uranium-rich geology and high-altitude building physics creates a radon environment that's severe even by Colorado standards.

Black Forest and Acreage Properties

The Black Forest area north of Colorado Springs sits on decomposed granite with particularly elevated uranium. Homes on larger lots with well water (which can also contain dissolved radon) face dual exposure pathways. Acreage properties in this area routinely test 20–40 pCi/L — levels that require prompt mitigation.

For very high-level homes (above 20 pCi/L), the GX5 Pro fan with multiple suction points may be required. Contractors serving the Black Forest area are accustomed to these conditions and should be able to provide references from similar properties.

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