Radon

Dura-Skrim, Visqueen and Monarflex radon barriers are three membranes we carry as standard, however if you have a different product in mind - don't fret, we are highly experienced in the handling and fitting of all types of specialist construction membranes from LLDPE to HDPE including PVC's and the like. Our method of "in-situ" membrane placement is unique in that we actively review every project before commencement to ensure that jointing is minimized which not only improves membrane performance (less joints means less potential areas of failure under imposed loads) but also greatly reduces fitting times which aids critical path.

RADON

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas which originates from the decay of uranium in rocks and soils. It is colourless, odourless and tasteless and can only be measured using special equipment. When radon surfaces in the open air, it is quickly diluted to harmless concentrations, but when it enters an enclosed space, such as a house or other building, it can sometimes accumulate to unacceptably high concentrations.

Radon decays to form tiny radioactive particles, some of which remain suspended in the air. When inhaled into the lungs these particles give a radiation dose which may damage cells in the lung and eventually lead to lung cancer.

Radon concentration is measured in Becquerel’s per cubic metre of air (Bq/m3). The Becquerel is a unit of radioactivity and corresponds to one radioactive disintegration per second.

The Reference Level for long-term exposure to radon in a house, above which the need for remedial action should be considered, is 200 Bq/m3. Based on current knowledge it is estimated that in Ireland, for the population as a whole, a lifetime exposure (i.e. 70 yrs) to radon in the home at the Reference Level of 200 Bq/m3 carries a risk of about 1 in 50 of contracting fatal lung cancer. This is approximately twice the risk of death in a road accident.

Since July 1998, every new house is required to incorporate some degree of radon preventive measures at the time of construction in accordance with the revised building regulations. The degree of protection re-quired is dependent upon whether or not the site is located within a High Radon Area.

It is also worth considering that there are many high quality membranes now available that when installed correctly will not only provide an effective barrier against radon entering a dwelling/building but will also provide dual functionality in terms of damproofing. DPM “hot air” weld all membrane joints “in-situ” this not only overcomes problems with poorly sealed joints due to contamination by wet aggregates and dust/dirt, a properly welded joint will mimic the physical characteristics of the membrane and will be less likely to peel or open under imposed loads.