Radon comes from the soil and pulls naturally into the building’s lowest level. It can move throughout the structure either from the stack effect or mechanical air systems. Once trapped in the building, it will break down into radon decay products, which may cause lung cancer. Most people are unaware that there are multiple ways to prevent radon from being an issue in their new building. You can have two types of systems. Passive or Active.
Passive systems provide a pathway for the radon gases to naturally flow from below the concrete to exhaust above the roofline - this includes work done before and after pouring concrete slabs. Vapor collection matting or perforated PVC runs, vapor barriers, and PVC risers that extend from the ground to the roofline are all part of the process.
Active systems include all the work a passive system requires but adds one more element: radon fans. These electrical fans pull the air rather than relying on the natural airflow from the stack effect. Activating a passive system is the best way to reduce radon as low as possible.
Your design specialist will discuss your goals in detail to provide the best plan of action that fits your budget. We can also modify your blueprints to include the radon design that better fits the planning process.