Radon Gas pressure is usually reduced by applying a method known as sub-slab depressurization. This method is designed to reduce the Radon gas pressure built up below the basement floor. PVC piping is inserted and sealed into the basement floor which is attached to an in-line fan creating a vacuum within the pipe which in turn suck’s the gas from the sub-basement, through the PVC pipe, and out of the home via the ventilation pipe.
The PVC piping is generally vented to the roofline of the home. It must be ten (10) feet above ground level and twenty four (24) inches above the highest un-sealed window or door…that is to say the door or window must be able to be opened and closed.
If the home is a multi-level structure, such as a colonial home, the PVC pipe can extend from the basement into a series of closets stacked one on top of another into an accessible attic and out through the roof. It is important to note that this configuration requires that the first and second floor closets be stacked on top of another.
If there is an attached garage, the PVC pipe may be routed into the garage and exit through the garage roof. It is important to note that this configuration works best when the room above the garage is not finished. *If the PVC pipe is extended from the basement out over the top of the foundation through the side of the home (generally near the back corner board) and extended upward to the eave, it will look much like a downspout.