• Gas permeable layer - Contractors place a layer of gravel under the slab or floor so
gas can move more freely. You won’t be able to use this in houses with a crawlspace.
• Plastic sheeting - This goes on the gravel to help soil gas from entering the home.
• Sealing and caulking - This reduces the ability of soil gas to enter the home.
• Vent pipe - A gas-tight or PVC pipe runs from the base of your house to the roof,
allowing radon and other gases to escape.
• Junction box - By installing this in your attic, it’s easier to hook up a vent so radon
isn’t trapped in your home.
In the event your current house tests high for elevated levels of radon, some fixes could be DIY, including sealing and caulking cracks in the foundation, improving your home’s natural ventilation and creating room pressurization with fans.
However, the EPA recommends that you have a qualified radon mitigation contractor fix your home because it may need a radon mitigation system installed. A radon mitigation system consists of a vent pipe, fan and the proper sealing of cracks. This system collects radon gas from underneath the foundation and vents it to the outside of your home.
Contact your state radon office for a list of licensed radon mitigation professionals in your area. Detailed information about radon reduction in your home or building can be found in the EPA's Consumer's Guide to Radon Reduction.
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Nathaniel Burden, Physicist, CR3 Advisor
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