The purpose of a radon mitigation system is to bring the levels of radon gas in a structure, most often a home, down to a level that is considered to be safe and acceptable. It is possible for the design and installation of a radon mitigation system to change in accordance with the composition of the building as well as the radon concentration that is there. Nonetheless, keeping radon from entering the living environment and securely venting it outside are the fundamental tenets of radon mitigation. These tenets should be followed whenever possible. A radon mitigation system’s operation can be broken down into the following broad categories:
Site Evaluation: In order to decide which radon mitigation system is most suited to a given building, a knowledgeable radon professional will conduct an inspection of the property and make a recommendation. They may carry out diagnostic testing in order to locate the potential entrance points of radon gas and determine the quantities of radon present.
Sub-Slab Depressurization, also known as Active Soil Depressurization, is the radon mitigation technique that is both the most prevalent and the most effective. It consists of carrying out the following steps:
Installation of a Suction Point involves drilling a hole or many holes into the foundation slab or through the basement floor. The lowest level of the building, such as the basement or the crawl area, is often where these holes can be found.
PVC pipes or perforated pipes are used in the installation of collection pipes. After being put into the holes, the pipes are then connected to a collection manifold. Radon gas is able to be extracted from the ground and directed into the radon reduction system thanks to the pipes that have been installed.
Installation of a Radon Fan A radon fan is added to the system, and it is normally positioned either in the building’s attic or outside the structure. Radon gas is drawn up from underneath the foundation by the fan, which generates suction or a negative pressure within the collection pipes.
Ventilation Pipe The collecting manifold is connected to a ventilation pipe that either reaches beyond the roofline or is angled in a direction that keeps it away from openings such as windows and doors. This makes it possible for the radon gas to be safely released outside, away from any areas where people live.
Alternate Radon Mitigation Methods: The use of alternative radon mitigation methods may be possible, depending on the particular conditions that exist within the structure as well as its construction. These may include the following:
Sub-Membrane Depressurization: This technique is utilised when the building in question possesses a crawl area made of soil or gravel. On the floor of the crawl space, a plastic barrier that is referred to as a vapour barrier is installed. In addition, a radon mitigation system is built, which draws radon gas from underneath the barrier and vents it outside.
Sump Pump Depressurization: If the building has a sump pump, a mitigation system can be linked to the sump pit to take radon gas from the earth beneath the foundation and vent it outdoors. If the structure does not have a sump pump, a mitigation system cannot be installed.
Monitoring and Maintenance: After the installation of a radon mitigation system, it is vital to frequently test the radon levels to confirm that the system is effectively reducing radon concentrations. This can be done by either using a radon detector or by using a continuous radon monitor. It is essential to do routine maintenance on the system in order to keep it functioning properly. This maintenance should include inspecting the functionality of the fans, sealing any potential entry points, and replacing components as necessary.
Consultation with a trained radon professional who is able to evaluate the particular needs of your building and design a suitable radon mitigation system should absolutely be pursued as soon as possible. They will verify that the right installation procedures are followed, that local building codes are adhered to, and that continuing monitoring and maintenance are performed in order to keep the living environment safe and healthy.
