What recommendations does the EPA make?
- Have you done radon inspection in larkspur co before you buy or sell it.
- Ask if there are radon-resistant features in a home and have it tested.
- If the radon level in your home is higher than 4 picocuries per Liter (or pCi/L), then you should fix it.
- Even though Radon levels below 4 pCi/L are not considered to be a threat, they may still pose a danger.
- When conducting a radon testing, take precautions to avoid device interference.
Why not buy a radon-resistant house?
- How Techniques Work
- These simple and affordable techniques can reduce radon levels by approximately 50%. These techniques can also be used to lower other soil gases or decrease moisture problems.
- It’s cost-effective
- It is cheaper to build the features than fix a radon problem later.
- Save Money
- These techniques can also be used to make your home more efficient, which could result in an average $65 per year savings on your energy bills.
- Easy Radon reduction can be achieved by adding a fan to the system.
What are Radon-Resistant Features and How Can They Help?
Although the techniques can be different for different foundations or site requirements, the fundamental elements of the design are:
Permeable Layer
This layer is laid beneath the slab or flooring system in order to allow soil gas to flow freely under the house. A 4-inch layer of gravel is used in many cases. This gas-permeable layer can only be used in homes that have slab-on-grade or casement foundations. It is not recommended for homes with crawlspace foundations.
Plastic Sheeting
To prevent soil gas from entering your home, seal the seams of plastic sheeting. It is placed over the gas permeable layer. The sheeting is placed on top of crawlspace floors.
Caulking and Sealing
To reduce soil gas entry to the home, all below-grade openings in concrete foundation floors are sealed.
Vent Pipe
To safely vent radon or other soil gases from the roof, a 3- to 4-inch PVC or gas-tight (or any other gas-tight) pipe runs through the house and to the roof.
Junction Box
To make wiring and installing a vent fan simpler, an electrical junction box is located in the attic. You might decide to activate passive system because of elevated levels of radon (4 pCi/L) in your test results. To power the vent fan alarm, a separate junction box is installed in the living area. To indicate when the vent fan has stopped working properly, an alarm is placed along the vent fan.
Did You Know?
- Radon is the second most common cause of lung cancer, after smoking.
- In every state, high levels of radon have been detected.
- Even within the same neighborhood, levels can differ widely.
- You can lower radon levels and make your home radon-resistant.
What can you do?
You can reduce radon levels in your home and improve energy efficiency with simple, affordable techniques. These are the steps you should follow when purchasing a new house.
1. Radon Potential in Your Area
Check to see if your home is located in an area with high levels of radon. The Environmental Protection Agency’s map showing radon zones shows where there is the highest potential for high indoor radon levels. Zone 1 is the best area for homes with high radon levels. These areas should be constructed with radon-resistant materials.
2. Install a Radon Reduction system
Ask your builder to install a radon mitigation system. Get free copies of the EPA Model Standards and architectural drawings. You can use these to help your builder understand the techniques. Your builder should know that radon-resistant features can be installed using common building materials and practices.
3. Don’t forget to test your home
After occupancy, every new home should be tested to ensure it is free of radon. Even if your home has radon-resistant features, you should still test it. You can purchase test kits at your local hardware shop for a low price. To order a test kit, visit National Radon Services Program EPA WEBSITE.
4. If Radon levels are still high, activate
Install an in-line fan if your home has a radon level of 4.0 picoCuries/liter (pCi/L). For more information about the installation of the fan, contact your local radon mitigation specialist. For a list of qualified professionals in radon services near you, consult one or both the national radon proficiency program or your state radon contacts.
