If you’ve recently found out your home or workplace has high levels of radon, one of the first questions you’re likely to ask is: does radon mitigation actually work?
The short answer is yes it works. When installed correctly and maintained properly, radon mitigation systems are highly effective at reducing indoor radon levels.
But how does mitigation work, and what are your options? Let’s break it down.
What Is Radon and Where Does It Come From?
Radon is a radioactive gas that forms naturally from the decay of uranium, which is present in most rocks and soils. Radon seeps out of the ground and mixes with air trapped between particles of soil. This creates what is known as soil gas, which is a mixture of a variety of gases and includes radon gas.
This soil gas, including radon, can then enter buildings. This is because a building’s indoor air pressure is usually lower than the pressure outside, creating a gentle suction effect that draws soil gas inside.
Because of this, radon gas can enter buildings through:
- Cracks in solid floors
- Gaps around pipes and cables
- Construction joints
- Spaces beneath suspended floors
- Floors that do not contain a gas-proof membrane
Is Radon Gas Dangerous?
Yes. Radon gas is a major source of public radiation exposure and is an established cause of lung cancer. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the UK, after smoking.
What Is a Safe Radon Level?
In the UK, the Action Level for radon is 200 becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m³). If a radon test shows annual average levels above this, mitigation is strongly recommended. The risk of lung cancer rises in a line with the radon concentration. The average radon level in UK homes is 20 Bq/m³ so your individual risk is likely to be low and not a cause for concern, however, the only way to find out if your property has an elevated level of radon is to conduct testing.
How to Reduce Radon Levels
The goal of radon mitigation is simple: reduce indoor levels as low as reasonably achievable. There is no one-size-fits-all solution and the most appropriate method will depend on:
- The radon concentration before mitigation
- The construction and layout of the building
- The type of flooring
- The presence of existing ventilation systems
Two of the most common radon reduction methods are radon sumps and positive input ventilation systems.
Radon Sumps
A radon sump is often the first choice in properties with high radon levels. A hole is created beneath the building and because this hole creates a low-pressure void, it’s able to draw radon gas from the ground before it can enter the home. The gas is then safely vented away via an exhaust pipe that’s fitted with a fan.
Key points:
- The exhaust pipe vent is fitted safely away from doors and windows, usually above roof level
- Multiple sumps may be needed in large or extended buildings
- Can be installed in both existing properties and new builds as a precautionary feature
Radon Sump Maintenance
Sumps need to be checked regularly so that they are kept working effectively. Although the fans don’t use filters, they can draw in dirt and debris, which may reduce airflow or cause noise.
We recommend a ‘clean and check’ service every two years. Because sumps are often outside or hidden from daily view, issues may go unnoticed unless they’re checked properly.
Positive Input Ventilation (PIV)
A positive input ventilation system involves installing a fan in the loft or on an internal wall, which gently blows filtered air into the building. This raises indoor air pressure just enough to prevent radon entering from the ground.
PIV is most effective in properties with lower or moderately raised radon levels, or where sumps may not be suitable due to the type of building layout or, for example, issues with a high water table or previous flooding in the property.
Maintaining a PIV System
PIV units have filters that collect dust and other airborne particles. If left unchecked, these filters can block airflow, reduce the unit’s effectiveness, and, in some cases, burn out the motor.
Filters should be checked at least once a year, cleaned regularly, and replaced when needed.
How We Design Radon Mitigation Systems
Our team will:
- Conduct a full site survey of your property
- Use diagnostic testing to identify radon hotspots
- Recommend the most effective solution for your building
- Provide a clear report and quotation before any work begins
- Sometimes our survey may uncover a simple floor defect or air path that can be resolved quickly without a full mitigation system, saving you time and money.
How Much Does Radon Remediation Cost?
Costs vary depending on the type of system, the complexity of installation, and the size of the building. We work on a case-by-case basis, providing transparent pricing after your initial survey.
Get In Touch
If you’re concerned about radon in your property or need advice on the right mitigation system, contact our friendly team today.
