WE HAVE THE SOLUTION TO YOUR RADON PROBLEM
WAYS TO REDUCE HIGH LEVELS OF RADON
A variety of methods can be used to reduce radon in homes. The most common measures are given below. Remember to always consult with our radon specialists before installing!
RADON SUMP
Radon Source: Soils and rocks under the house
Foundation: Basement, Slab on grade
Radon concentration: 200-3000 Bq/m3
Radon sump suction (also called subslab depressurization) is the most common and usually the most reliable radon reduction method. Suction pipes are inserted through the floor slab into the crushed rock or soil below. This prevents the gas from entering the building. This method is the most effective and in many cases will reduce the radon level to less than a tenth of the original level.
Blowing air into the sump and pressurizing the soil can also prove effective in some cases.
SEALING FLOORS & WALLS
Radon Source: Soils and rocks under your house
Foundation: All
Radon concentration: 200-400 Bq/m3
You can seal the floor and the joint between the floor and wall to prevent the radon from getting through gaps and cracks. This is likely to be effective only at moderate radon levels, up to 200-300 Bq/m3. It is generally difficult to reduce the radon level to much less than half by this means.
NATURAL VENTILATION
Radon Source: All
Foundation: All
Radon concentration: 200-300 Bq/m3
Some natural ventilation occurs in all houses. You increase the ventilation in your house by opening windows, doors and vents on the lower floors. This increase in ventilation mixes radon with the outside air and can result in reduced radon levels. It is however not recommended as a permanent solution.
Examples of appropriate measures include installing trickle ventilators to windows, capping off and sealing unused chimneys, draught-proofing loft hatches and avoiding the use of open fires and solid-fuel-effect open fires. This does not necessarily reduce the radon level, however. Contact us before taking these actions.
MECHANICAL VENTILATION
Radon Source: All
Foundation: All
Radon concentration: 200-1000 bq/m3
A heat recovery ventilator (HRV), also called an air-to-air heat exchanger, can be installed to increase ventilation. An HRV will increase house ventilation while using the heated or cooled air being exhausted to warm or cool the incoming air. This is a good way to save energy and at the same time get a better indoor climate
Using mechanical ventilation is without doubt the best way to get rid of the radon problem, but it is also the most expensive.
Mechanical fans can be used to blow air into, or draw air out of, a cellar or basement.
Always consult us before installing!
HOUSES WITH CRAWLSPACES
In houses with crawlspaces, radon levels can sometimes be lowered by ventilating the crawlspace passively (without the use of a fan) or actively (with the use of a fan). Natural ventilation in a crawlspace is achieved by opening vents or installing additional vents. Active ventilation uses a fan with or without a heat exchanger to blow air through the crawlspace instead of relying on natural air circulation.
The heat exchange also prevents moisture and mold by maintaining an even temperature in the crawlspace. Other solutions for crawlspaces exist.