November is Radon Action Month, a time to raise awareness about radon—a silent and often overlooked health risk that can seep into homes and impact air quality. At Sonbuilt Custom Homes, building healthy homes is at the core of our mission, and radon mitigation is an essential part of creating safe living environments.
What Is Radon and Why Is It Dangerous?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. This gas can enter homes through cracks in floors and walls, gaps around pipes, and other openings. You can’t see, smell, or taste radon, but over time, exposure can increase the risk of lung cancer. In fact, Health Canada identifies radon as the second leading cause of lung cancer, following smoking.
The Importance of Radon Awareness
Radon Action Month highlights the need for testing and awareness, especially in areas where radon levels may be higher. In British Columbia, where we build, there are many radon-prone regions. As custom home builders, we take this risk seriously, and it’s one of the reasons we go beyond code to ensure our homes are built with the highest health and safety standards.
Our Radon Mitigation Process at Sonbuilt Custom Homes
From the moment we break ground on a new project, we’re thinking about air quality and how to reduce potential radon exposure. Here’s a closer look at how we incorporate radon mitigation into every step of our construction process:
1. Site Assessment and Planning
We start by understanding the geological characteristics of the land, assessing radon risks based on location. If our research suggests that the area has higher radon levels, we adapt our mitigation strategies to match.
2. Air Sealing and Ventilation
Radon enters a home through gaps and cracks, which is why we focus on meticulous air sealing during construction. In addition to making a home more energy efficient, this minimizes entry points for radon. Our homes are also designed with advanced ventilation systems that promote continuous airflow and exchange, reducing the risk of radon buildup.
3. Passive Radon Mitigation Systems
In areas with higher radon potential, we install passive radon mitigation systems—like a vent pipe running from beneath the slab up through the roof—to safely redirect radon outside. This system works without the need for electricity or fans, although we can add active systems if necessary.
4. Radon-Resistant Materials
We use radon-resistant construction materials, such as vapor barriers and high-performance insulation, that further reduce radon entry points. These materials work in harmony with our air-sealing approach, ensuring the home is tightly constructed from foundation to rooftop.
5. Testing After Construction
After construction is completed, we perform radon testing to ensure levels are within safe limits. This final step helps verify that the radon mitigation measures in the home are functioning effectively.
Peace of Mind and Healthier Homes
For nearly 30 years, Sonbuilt Custom Homes has been dedicated to building high-performance, healthy homes that our clients can feel comfortable and safe in. Our approach to radon mitigation reflects our commitment to quality and peace of mind, and we’re proud to build homes that prioritize the well-being of everyone who lives in them.
This Radon Action Month, we encourage all homeowners to learn more about radon and consider testing their homes. At Sonbuilt Custom Homes, we’re here to provide guidance on radon risks and how to ensure your home remains a healthy haven. Because a well-built home should be safe in every way—even in the places you don’t see.