Parade of Homes

The National Building Code now requires a radon rough-in pipe in all newly constructed homes, but does that mean radon gas is not a concern in new homes? Not at all! Radon gas can build up in any home — no matter when it was constructed — and continues to be the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Since radon is invisible and has no smell or taste, it's essential that all new-home buyers test for radon once they move into their new home. For both builders and home buyers alike, it's important to bear in mind that the rough-in pipe is not a complete radon system, but simply a connection point should a complete system be required. It's also important to know that there is an effective method available to drastically lower radon levels at an affordable price. A radon mitigation system or "active soil depressurization" (ASD) system connects to the radon rough-in pipe and extends to a discharge pipe to exit outside of the home and it does exactly what its name suggests — it depressurizes the soil beneath the home's foundation. Any radon present below the home is moved through the dedicated radon piping and exhausted outdoors, lowering radon levels inside the home by an average of over 90%. Radon mitigation systems should be installed by a certified radon professional, who can generally complete the work within a day. While the cost of these systems can vary significantly depending on the home, the average cost is around $3,000 plus taxes. Builders can streamline the process and save lives by taking care to properly seal all entry points from the ground, properly install the radon rough-in pipe and encourage their clients to test for radon. A radon test is simple to do. Visit www.takeactiononradon.ca to find a list of approved test kit suppliers, or to consult a radon measurement professional. To find a certified radon professional near you, simply use the "Find a Professional" tool at www.c-nrpp.ca (Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program). To find information about Manitoba Hydro's Finance Plan to add the cost of mitigation to your Manitoba Hydro bill, visit www. hydro.mb.ca/your_home/loans_ financing/energy_finance_plan/ Protect Your Nest — Take the Test Radon gas can build up in any home, old or new Parade of Homes Fall 2020 139 building Are you a home? Are you aware that the National Building Code includes measures that will make a radon mitigation system quieter, more efficient and more effective if testing your new home reveals the presence of high radon? For more details go to www.c-nrpp.ca new WARNING: These measures don't fix your radon. Once occupied, EVERY HOME NEEDS TO BE TESTED FOR RADON. If levels are high it means your radon rough-in needs to be activated with an installed fan.

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