Radon is an alarming problem often overlooked, especially regarding new construction. Despite being a naturally-occurring gas, radon is a significant contributor to lung cancer, claiming the lives of thousands of people each year. This silent killer seeps into homes, buildings, and workplaces worldwide, without anyone realizing it. It's time to take a closer look at radon and learn how to prevent it using five effective techniques in new construction.

While many people may not have heard of radon, it is a potent carcinogen that can cause serious long-term health issues. It arises from the natural breakdown of uranium, found in small amounts in rocks and soil, and is known to be one of the leading causes of lung cancer. In fact, it's estimated that radon is responsible for over 20,000 deaths each year in the United States alone. It's a problem that affects everyone, yet it is often neglected regarding new construction.

The good news is that preventing radon in new construction is entirely possible by implementing these 5 vital techniques.

#1. Gravel

Gravel is a simple and affordable solution that can help prevent radon from entering your home. When building a new home, it is important to ask your contractor to use a 4-inch layer of clean, coarse gravel that will be placed below the "slab" or foundation. This allows radon and other soil gasses to move freely underneath the house, and prevent them from entering your home.

The "airflow layer" or "gas permeable layer" is created by the loose gravel, which permits the gasses to circulate. This allows for proper ventilation and prevents radon from entering your home. It is important to note that the gravel used must be clean and coarse, as fine gravel or sand can compact and prevent proper airflow.

Using gravel to prevent radon in new construction is a simple and effective way to protect your family's health. It is also cost-effective, requiring no additional equipment or ongoing maintenance. In addition to preventing radon, using gravel can also provide other benefits, such as improved drainage and stability for the foundation.

#2. Junction Box

An electrical junction box is a small metal or plastic box that protects electrical connections. When installed in the attic, a junction box can power a vent fan, which helps to circulate air and prevent radon from building up in your home. By creating a negative pressure zone in your attic, the fan can help to draw radon and other gases out of your living space and vent them outside.

While an electrical junction box can effectively prevent radon, it's important to conduct long-term radon testing to see if a more robust system is needed. Radon levels can fluctuate based on various factors, including weather, temperature, and ventilation. By monitoring radon levels over an extended period of time, you can determine if additional measures are necessary to protect your family's health.

If you're building a new home, taking radon prevention seriously is important. Radon is a serious health risk that can be easily prevented with the right techniques. Installing an electrical junction box and conducting long-term testing ensures that your home is safe and radon-free.

#3. Plastic Sheeting or Vapor Retarder

One way to prevent radon in new construction is by using heavy-duty plastic sheeting or vapor retarder on top of the gravel. These materials create a barrier between the soil and the home, preventing soil gasses from entering the living space.

Plastic sheeting is made of 6 mils. polyethylene, which is a durable and long-lasting material. It is installed on top of the gravel and is a barrier to prevent radon from entering the home. The plastic sheeting also prevents the concrete from clogging the gravel layer when pouring the slab.

Vapor retarder is another material that can prevent radon in new construction. It is installed on top of the gravel and is made of a heavier material than plastic sheeting. A vapor retarder is more effective than plastic sheeting because it is thicker and prevents more soil gasses from entering the home.

Radon contractors highly recommend plastic sheeting or vapor retarder to prevent radon in new construction. It is a simple and effective measure that can be taken to ensure the safety of your home and family. Let's book your appointment for radon measures in Oslo via Radonmåling og radontiltak i Oslo fra Radoni AS.

#4. Sealing and Caulking

Sealing and caulking prevent radon from entering your home by sealing all the openings and cracks in the foundation and walls. This technique is especially important in areas with high levels of radon.

Sealing and caulking are not only effective in preventing radon but also in reducing energy costs. Sealing and caulking can improve your home's energy efficiency by preventing air leaks. It can also help to keep your home more comfortable and reduce drafts.

Polyurethane caulk is the preferred sealant for sealing and caulking as it is flexible and can withstand movement. It is also resistant to water and can last for many years. Polyurethane caulk is easy to apply and can be used on various surfaces, including concrete, wood, and metal.

Sealing and caulking should be done during the construction of your home. Sealing and caulking after the home has been built is much more difficult. If you are building a new home, ensure your builder knows the importance of sealing and caulking to prevent radon.

#5. Vent Pipe

Vent pipe installation is typically done during new home construction. The pipe is installed vertically through the home's conditioned space and out through the roof. This ensures that soil gases are vented outside the home, above the house, and not into the living space.

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, and it is estimated that one in 15 homes has elevated radon levels. Installing a vent pipe can prevent radon gas from entering your home and reduce your risk of developing lung cancer.

In addition to preventing radon, vent pipe installation also helps to mitigate other soil gases, including methane and carbon dioxide. These gases can also pose health risks and cause structural damage to your home.

To sum up

Radon is a dangerous gas that should not be overlooked, especially during new construction. The techniques outlined in this article, such as installing a radon mitigation system and sealing the foundation, are effective ways to prevent radon from seeping into homes, buildings, and workplaces. By taking proactive measures to prevent radon, we can reduce the number of deaths caused by this silent killer and create healthier living and working environments for ourselves and future generations. It's time to take radon seriously and prioritize its prevention in all new construction projects.