Radon protection solutions are designed to shield indoor spaces from the harmful effects of radon gas, which naturally accumulates from the ground and poses health risks.
What is Radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Originating from the natural decay of uranium found in soil, radon gas can infiltrate buildings through the foundation, accumulating over time. Because it's almost chemically inert and not as deeply penetrating as other forms of radiation, radon can go undetected without proper testing, making it a health concern for indoor environments.
To understand this invisible threat better, explore our knowledge article on radon for more information.
What are the Risks?
Exposure to radon gas is a leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, with risks increasing based on the concentration and duration of exposure. The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted that even low levels of radon pose a small but non-negligible cancer risk, a concern taken seriously in various national health regulations.
Ensuring radon levels remain below recommended thresholds is vital for long-term health and safety.
How Does Radon Protection Work?
Radon protection involves creating barriers and implementing systems within buildings to prevent radon entry or to diminish its concentration. Techniques include sealing cracks and joints, installing radon-resistant membranes, and improving ventilation.
The goal is to reduce indoor radon levels to meet or exceed health and safety
standards, thus safeguarding occupants against potential health risks.
Check out our knowledge article to learn more about how to protect against radon.
Does My Project Need Radon Protection?
Whether a project requires radon protection typically depends on the geographic location and the building's design. Areas with higher soil uranium levels present a greater risk for radon infiltration. For new construction and refurbishment projects, it is crucial to assess radon exposure potential and integrate protective measures accordingly to ensure occupant safety and regulatory compliance.
How to Choose Radon Protection Products
Selecting the right radon protection products involves understanding the specific needs of your project, such as the building's design and local radon levels. High-quality sealants, tapes, and radon-resistant membranes like those offered by Sika provide effective solutions.
Products should be chosen based on their proven efficacy, compatibility with building materials, and their ability to meet the longevity and durability requirements of the structure.
For New Construction
Incorporating radon mitigation measures during the initial stages of building design is not only essential for meeting safety standards but also sets the foundation for long-term well-being within the newly constructed space.
During the open-cut excavation process, provisions are made for the installation of waterproofing and radon-tight membranes between the soil and the structure. However, construction methods involving piled or diaphragm walls may impose limitations on the choice of waterproofing systems due to space constraints and restricted access.
Key Waterproofing Systems for New Build Projects
| Sikaproof A+ 12 | A reliable polyolefin (FPO) sheet membrane designed for below-ground waterproofing of reinforced concrete structures, ensuring effective radon protection. |
| Sikashield E80 | A bituminous, self-adhesive, fully bonded waterproofing sheet membrane suitable for various applications, including basements and below-ground structures, providing excellent radon resistance. |
| Sika Combiflex TF | A high-performance joint sealing system, which, when used in conjunction with waterproofing systems, contributes to comprehensive radon protection. |
| Sikalastic-8800 | A two-component spray-applied polyurea membrane renowned for its high chemical resistance and elasticity, making it suitable for various radon mitigation applications in new build projects. |
For Refurbishment
It's crucial not to overlook existing building stock when addressing radon mitigation. Implementing comprehensive measures and upgrades in these structures can significantly contribute to overall risk reduction for the population.
Key Sealing Systems for Refurbishment Projects
The initial step in radon reduction for existing buildings involves sealing cracks, joints, and other openings. This measure not only reduces radon infiltration but also enhances the effectiveness of other radon control methods, benefiting both new and existing structures.
| Sikaflex 11 FC Purform | A one-component polyurethane sealant with high elasticity and bonding properties, ideal for sealing cracks and joints. |
| Sikaflex PRO-3 Purform | Another one-component polyurethane sealant known for its high elasticity and superior bonding capabilities, perfect for sealing openings in existing structures. |
Waterproofing Systems for Box-in-Box Concept
The box-in-box concept can be employed in refurbishment projects, which, while reducing the available volume of the basement, offers the advantage of flexibility in selecting the waterproofing system.
| Sikaproof A+ 12 | A dependable polyolefin (FPO) sheet membrane designed for below-ground waterproofing of reinforced concrete structures, ideal for radon protection in existing buildings. |
| Sikashield E80 | A bituminous, self-adhesive, fully bonded waterproofing sheet membrane suitable for various applications, including refurbishment projects, ensuring effective radon resistance. |
| Sika Combiflex TF | A high-performance joint sealing system that, when integrated with waterproofing systems, contributes significantly to radon protection in existing structures. |
| Sikalastic-6100 FX (FKA MASTERSEAL 6100 FX) | A lightweight, single-component, elastic cementitious membrane that offers effective moisture and radon gas barrier properties for existing buildings. |
| Sikalastic-8800 | A two-component, fast-curing polyurea membrane that can be spray-applied onto structural concrete to waterproof retaining walls and roof sections, making it a valuable choice for refurbishment projects. |
Waterproofing Systems for Negative Side Application
In certain cases, negative side application may be the only feasible solution for refurbishing existing basements and slabs on grade, and the following waterproofing systems can be considered:
| Sika Combiflex TF | This high-quality adhesive sealing tape, based on FPO and bonded with Sikadur Combiflex adhesive, can be a key component of a post-applied waterproofing system. |
| Sikalastic-6100 FX (FKA MASTERSEAL 6100 FX) | This lightweight, elastic cementitious membrane is a suitable choice for negative side application in refurbishment projects. |
| Sikalastic-8800 | A highly flexible, fast-curing, two-component resin based on pure polyurea that can be spray-applied onto structural concrete to waterproof retaining walls and roof sections, making it a valuable solution for refurbishing existing structures. |
Contact a local Sika expert for application details in case of negative side application.
