RADON
REMEDIATION TECHNIQUES
There are two basic
approaches for reducing the level of radon in houses: (1)
prevent radon from entering the house; and, (2) dilute radon
concentrations present in the house.
No two homes have identical
radon problems, so there's no single method that can reduce
elevated radon levels in every home. However, there are several
reduction techniques that, singly or in combination, have
consistently proved effective. Homeowners should consult with
a certified radon mitigation contractor about the best methods
for reducing radon levels in their homes. The most frequently
used remediation techniques are:
- SUB-SLAB VENTILATION
reduces the amount of radon that typically accumulates underneath
a building's foundation. Pipes are inserted into holes drilled
through the basement floor. The pipes are connected to an
exhaust fan, which draws radon outdoors.
- BLOCK-WALL VENTILATION
is effective in cases where radon gas enters through hollow
concrete walls. This ventilation method either removes radon
from walls by way of an exhaust fan or prevents radon from
entering walls by forcing air into the hollow spaces. Sealing
cracks in basement walls will increase the effectiveness
of this method.
- SEALING OPENINGS
AND CRACKS reduces the possible entry points for radon gas.
Openings around utility pipes, gaps between floors and walls
in basement, and large cracks in basement floors are easily
identified, but there may be smaller cracks not so easily
detected. This method is best when done in conjunction with
other mitigation procedures.
- COVERING EXPOSED
EARTH in basements and crawl spaces with concrete or some
impermeable material can help to reduce radon entry.
- DRAIN-TILE SUCTION
involves the use of a continuous loop of perforated tiles
along the perimeter of a house. Either an existing drain
tile system or a new system installed for this purpose will
suffice. An exhaust fan is hooked to the network of tiles.
The suction created by the fan pulls radon away from the
surrounding soil and prevents radon from entering the house.
- PROVIDING REPLACEMENT
AIR for large home combustion appliances, such as furnaces,
clothes dryers and even fireplaces, can lessen the effect
of lowered air pressure typically caused by these appliances.
This can reduce the amount of radon entering a home.
- FORCED VENTILATION
uses fans to increase a home's natural air exchange by drawing
air into the house. As the existing indoor air leaves the
house through vents or open windows, it takes the radon
with it. Heat loss can be a problem during cold weather
months, so ventilation techniques should be considered very
carefully.
- HEAT RECOVERY VENTILATION
is a form of forced ventilation that reduces heat loss.
For all remediation
work, whether done by a certified contractor or a homeowner,
a post remediation test should be performed to determine if
radon levels have been sufficiently lowered. A retest should
be performed to determine if radon levels have been sufficiently
lowered. A retest should be performed every two years to ensure
that the mitigation system is still working properly.
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