Radon Sealing
After performing the diagnostic evaluation, it is important to seal all major radon entry routes as described in Radon Entry & Behavior. However, the EPA, in its booklet Consumer's Guide to Radon Reduction, does not recommend the use of sealing alone to reduce radon. As a chemically inactive gas, radon can diffuse through concrete, making sealing alone inconsistent at reducing radon levels.
In our years of radon reduction experience, we have seen people use epoxy paints, waterproofing paints, concrete sealers and other substances to "seal" radon out of buildings. Every building we have seen that used these costly and time-consuming techniques have required the installation of a radon reduction system sooner rather than later.
To reduce radon gas entry, US Radon Management, Inc's professionals seal all major radon entry routes. For example:
- Radon Entry Route
- Foundation cracks
- Sump pit
- Floor drains
- Exposed dirt/rock (i.e. crawlspaces)
- Open block wall tops
- Sealing Material
- Polyurethane caulk
- Custom PVC sump cover
- Radon trap drains
- Two-ply woven polyethylene vapor barrier or EPDM
- Closed cell foam
It is important to note that some of the sealing materials used will emit fumes while curing. If you are chemically sensitive, it is important that you discuss this with our technicians.
Next, the radon reduction system, usually an active soil depressurization system or, less frequently, a heat recovery ventilator system, is installed.
