Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless radioactive gas produced from the breakdown of uranium which is found in most rocks and soils. As it decays, it emits atomic particles into the air. When inhaled, the energy associated with these radioactive particles can alter cell DNA and increase the risk of lung cancer.
Introduction
While radon poses no threat outdoors, as it dissipates, it can accumulate to hazardous levels inside homes. Understanding the mechanism of radon entry is vital. When a home’s interior air pressure is lower than the surrounding soil, which is typical, radon seeps in through cracks, foundation openings, sump pumps, floor drains, sinks, and floor-wall joints. Similar to a chimney, this phenomenon, known as the stack effect, is most pronounced during winter when temperature differences between indoors and outdoors are significant.
Passive Radon System
To mitigate radon risks during construction, you have cost-effective options like a passive radon system:
- Install a 4-inch layer of clean, coarse gravel or aggregate beneath the foundation slab to allow soil gases to move freely.
- If gravel is expensive, opt for a 3 or 4-inch diameter perforated pipe with a geotextile cloth covering to prevent clogging.
- Place a 6 mil polyethylene plastic sheet atop gravel, perforated pipe, or collection mat to prevent upward gas movement and concrete clogging.
- Run a 3 or 4-inch diameter solid PVC pipe vertically through the building to the roof for ventilation.
- Seal and caulk all openings and cracks in the concrete foundation to reduce radon entry points.
For accurate radon level measurement, use pico-Curies per liter (pCi/L). An acceptable range is 0-2 pCi/L, while 2-4 pCi/L indicates the need for better ventilation.
Radon Kits
- Passive Radon Kit by First Alert: A cost-effective option requiring no electricity. However, delayed shipping and testing might affect accuracy.
- Digital Radon Detector by Air Things: Priced at $137, it operates on 3 AAA batteries, providing short and long-term average readings. Accuracy improves over time.
- Wave Plus by Air Things: This premium detector, priced at $180, monitors radon levels, VOC, carbon dioxide, humidity, temperature, and pressure. The device measures radon levels with precision, helping you maintain a healthy environment.
If your home consistently exhibits radon levels above 4 pCi/L, hiring a radon mitigation contractor is essential. They employ diagnostic tests, such as chemical smoke testing, to identify potential radon entry points. Remediation options include installing suction pipes under the floor slab, venting through the roof, or sealing foundation cracks.
Don’t overlook radon mitigation; it’s vital to protect your family and future-proof your home. Consider integrating remediation systems before construction, especially as we move towards constructing airtight homes with continuous exterior insulation. Addressing radon issues, properly sizing HVAC equipment, and implementing air purification systems are essential steps towards creating a safe living space.
First Alert Radon Gas Test Kit, RD1 $14.48 https://amzn.to/2KOFXGe
Corentium Home Radon Detector by Airthings $137.13 https://amzn.to/2Mva860
Airthings 2930 Wave Plus $180 https://amzn.to/2KQ0OJn
