Reducing radon levels in your home
Radon reduction steps can vary in their complexity, effectiveness and cost. Although many of these radon-reducing measures can require installation by a professional contractor or skilled homeowner, many steps can be taken immediately at very little expense.
Closing off major entry routes for radon may help in reducing radon levels. Pay attention to openings in your home’s foundation where radon can enter. Some openings that can be important to seal include:
Open sump pumps
Fitting sumps with an airtight cover can help prevent radon from entering the basement.
Floor drains
Basement floor drains can have special traps that will allow water to drain but stop radon and soil gas from entering the home.
Exposed soil
Cover exposed soil in crawl spaces with a barrier with sealed edges and joints. Major gaps in a basement floor slab should be covered by poured concrete.
Gaps in concrete block walls
Any voids or gaps in rows of blocks should be sealed in the top of the foundation and also in the interior load-bearing walls.
Once major openings have been closed off, look to further reduce radon levels by sealing minor cracks in foundation walls and floors.
Reducing the forces that draw radon into your home may also be beneficial. For example, when using an open fireplace, try opening a nearby window to provide outdoor air. When the fireplace is not in use, remember to shut the chimney damper.
Even when taking steps to reduce radon, it’s best to test to find out if your home’s radon levels are below the Canadian guideline or not. Health Canada’s radon website, http://www.healthcanada.gc.ca/radon, provides more useful tips and information. A comprehensive booklet called Radon – A Guide for Canadian Homeowners is also available through the site.
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