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Would I Incur Liability by Installing Radon-Resistant New Construction Features?. Adopting radon-resistant building techniques should not increase your liability risks in any jurisdiction as long as due care is exercised in following the proper construction techniques
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Would I Incur Liability by Installing Radon-Resistant New Construction Features? • Adopting radon-resistant building techniques should not increase your liability risks in any jurisdiction as long as due care is exercised in following the proper construction techniques • In high radon areas, RRNC features may help you market and sell the homes you build. *Code references listed in Building Radon Out
Once you’ve decided to build radon-resistant, you will want to make sure to install the features properly. There are building codes that apply to, or include, provisions for radon. Model Standards & Techniques for Control of Radon in New Residential Buildings, 1994 EPA What Code Do I Follow for Installing RRNC Features? International Residential Code, 2000-Appendix F One & Two Family Dwelling Code, 1995 CABO Appendix F
EPA recommends that all homes built in Zone 1 areas have radon reduction systems • The NAHB recommends using the passive radon system in Zone 1 areas. • This U.S. Geological Survey map, based on radon measurements, local geology and population densities, ranks all counties in the U.S. by zone. On a scale of 1 to 3, 1 has the highest risk for elevated levels of radon.
It is cost-effective and recommended to install a complete passive sub-slab or sub-membrane depressurization system, which would be fully-functioning as soon as construction is finished. The home should be tested after occupancy, and the passive system should be activated if post-occupancy testing reveals radon levels at or above 4 pCi/l. Determine What Type of System To Install Passive Sub-Membrane Depressurization System in Crawlspace House
Gas permeable layer - 4inch layer of gravel used beneath slab Plastic sheeting - polyethylene sheeting placed on top of gas permeable layer to prevent soil gas entry Vent pipe - 3- or 4-inch PVC pipe runs from gas permeable layer, through house and roof Junction box - electrical junction box is wired in case fan is needed to activate the system Sealing & caulking - all openings in concrete foundation & floor are sealed to prevent soil gas entry Passive Sub-slab Depressurization System