Notes. Lesson overview. This lesson discusses how radon enters a home, where people can be exposed to unhealthy levels.

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Notes. Lesson overview. This lesson discusses how radon enters a home, where people can be exposed to unhealthy levels."

Transcription

1 Lesson 3: How does radon enter a home? Lesson overview This lesson discusses how radon enters a home, where people can be exposed to unhealthy levels. Lesson objectives By the end of this lesson, the learners will be able to: Recognize the importance of testing all homes for radon List the three requirements for radon to enter a home Identify the factors that determine the radon level in a home Select the three most common sources of radon in homes Define the four mechanisms that transport radon into a home Cite the key characteristics of radon pathways Discuss the variations in radon levels over space and time Explain to a hypothetical client how radon enters a home In this lesson, we are going to talk about how radon enters a home, where it exposes people to the risk of developing lung cancer. (Although people can also be exposed to radon in schools, offices, other buildings, and mines, this course focuses on radon in homes.) See slide 3 1. For most Americans, their greatest exposure to radon is in their homes, especially in Rooms that are below grade (such as basements) Rooms that are in contact with the ground Rooms that are immediately above the first two categories High radon levels have been found in Homes throughout the United States Homes throughout Connecticut Every type of home o Old or new o Drafty or well sealed o With or without a basement Lesson 3 1

2 See slide 3 2. Even neighboring homes may have very different radon levels Environmental Protection Agency recommends that all homes be tested for radon o Testing is the only accurate way to determine the radon level in any home. See slide 3 3. There are three requirements for radon to enter a home: 1. A radon source 2. A mechanism to transport radon from the source into the home 3. An opening or pathway in the home that allows radon to enter See slide 3 4. The radon level in a home depends on several factors. The strength of the radon sources: this is the most important factor in determining the level of radon in a home The distance of the radon sources from the home The ease with which radon can be transported into the home The home s ventilation (to a relatively small degree) Environmental factors (such as weather) We ll consider the radon sources first. To begin with, where does radon come from? Earlier, we talked about radon and its decay products. In fact, radon itself is a decay product of uranium 238. See slide 3 5. See Handout 3 1. This slide shows the uranium decay series. Handout 3 1 provides details of this decay series, including the halflives of the various decay products. See slide 3 6. There are three main sources of radon: 1. Soil and rock, which are the main cause of radon problems 2. Groundwater 3. Building materials, which are a less common source of problems Lesson 3 2

3 For all of these sources, once radon is inside the home, it can become trapped and can build up. See slide 3 7. Let s first consider radon gas from soil and rock. Uranium was distributed widely in the earth's crust as it formed. It is present at about 0.5 to 5 parts per million in common rocks and soil. Given the age of the earth and the half lives of the various decay products (as shown in Handout 3 1), uranium s slowly progressing decay now commonly produces radon 222. Some natural soils and rocks (such as granites, shales, and limestones) contain relatively high amounts of uranium or radium. If they are underneath or near a home, they can be a source of radon in the home. (Contaminated soils from uranium processing plants are another potential source, but such problems are less common and are localized.) As noted earlier, the uranium decays into radium, which decays into radon. See slide 3 8. In a few minutes, we ll talk in detail about how radon from the soil and rocks enters a home. For now, I ll just summarize the process: Radon enters the soil gas via empty spaces (or pores) in soil and rocks. Radon concentrations in soil gas may measure from 100pCi/L to more than 100,000pCi/L. Radon in the soil gas usually moves up through the ground to the air above. Air pressure inside a home is usually lower than pressure in the soil around a home s foundation. Because of this difference in air pressure, the home acts like a vacuum, drawing radon in through cracks and other holes in the foundation, including o Cracks in basement walls and floors o Drains o Sump pumps o Exposed soil o Construction joints o Spaces around service pipes See slide 3 9. Lesson 3 3

4 The second important source of radon in a home is groundwater. Radon may be released into the air when people shower, wash clothes or dishes, flush toilets, or use water for other household purposes. Radon is generally a problem only in small, closed systems that rely on groundwater, like a private well or a small public water supply, in locations where underlying rocks contain high levels of uranium. See slide In those situations, radon gas dissolved in the groundwater does not have time to decay or disperse before it enters the home. Once inside the home, radon escapes from the water into the air during normal household activities, such as Showering Washing clothes or dishes Flushing toilets See slide In homes that rely on surface water, radon usually escapes into the air before it reaches a home. In homes that rely on large public systems with groundwater sources (wells), water is usually aerated (mixed with air), which allows radon to escape. In addition, there is usually more time for the radon in the water to decay before it reaches the home. See slide The third, but less common, source of radon is building materials, such as bricks, granite, some concrete products, sheet rock, exposed bedrock, rocks used as thermal mass for solar heating systems, or other materials containing radium or uranium. However, building materials alone rarely cause radon problems. See slide Note that even homes next to each other may have different radon sources, which contribute to different radon levels in the homes. It is therefore impossible to predict the radon level of one home on the basis of the radon level in a neighboring home. As a result, all homes should be measured for radon levels Lesson 3 4

5 See slide We ve covered the main sources of radon soil and rock, groundwater, and building materials. Do you have any questions about these sources? See slide Next, let s consider how radon is transported into the home. The mechanisms that push or pull radon into a home from the sources include Differences between indoor and outdoor air pressure (sometimes called air pressure differences or differentials) Diffusion Emanation Outgassing from groundwater As you can see from the chart, differences in air pressure are the main mechanisms driving radon into a home. They are also the main focus for reducing radon levels when necessary. See slide As we noted earlier, air pressure differences make a home act like a giant vacuum, drawing in soil gas that includes radon. For various reasons, air escapes from the top of the home. The outdoor air, including soil gas, is then at a higher pressure than the indoor air, so it is drawn though the soil and into the lower level of the home. If there is radon in the soil gas, it is also drawn into the home. As a result, radon levels are usually higher in the lower levels of a home. Air pressure differences and the vacuum effect may result from several factors: Temperature differences between indoor and outdoor air Mechanical systems (such as ventilation equipment) Environmental factors (such as weather) See slide The temperature differences between indoor and outdoor air make a home behave like a chimney, and the airflow is often called the stack effect. In the stack effect, warm indoor air rises and usually escapes from upper floors via walls and the roof. As a result, the air Lesson 3 5

6 pressure in the lowest part of the home, such as the basement or above a crawl space, is reduced. The stack effect increases when there are openings between floors such as joints and cracks in the framing, or wiring and plumbing holes that allow warm indoor air to flow upward, in what is called a thermal bypass. In a cold climate like Connecticut s, the stack effect is the largest contributor to radon entry in the winter, because we must heat our indoor air. See slide Air pressure differences that may drive radon into a home can also come from mechanical systems, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems and home exhaust systems. As these systems function, more outdoor air and more radon enter the home. At the same time, these mechanical systems may dilute indoor radon. See slide Air pressure differences also arise from environmental effects, which include Weather related effects, such as seasonal temperature variations; rain, snow, and frost; and wind. Other factors (such as concrete patios or asphalt driveways) that seal the soil around the home and keep radon from escaping. We ll discuss weather related effects first in more detail. We should note that these effects are often complicated with the same factors sometimes raising and sometimes lowering radon levels. See slide Radon entry is usually greater in colder weather than in warmer weather for several reasons. In warm weather: Windows are usually open, which reduces the difference in air pressure between indoor and outdoor air. As a result, less radon is drawn into the home. Lesson 3 6

7 Good natural ventilation dilutes the radon concentration. (Ventilation refers to the amount of air that flows through the home.) However, if the home is air conditioned, the cooler indoor air sinks, and the lower rooms will have higher pressure than the outdoors, which prevents soil gas from entering the home. Air conditioned homes therefore usually have lower radon concentrations. In cool weather: Windows are usually closed, which increases the difference in air pressure between indoor and outdoor air. Warmer indoor air rises and leaks out of the home through cracks and holes at the top of the building. As a result, air pressure indoors is lower than outdoors, and more radon is drawn into the home. Poor ventilation traps radon inside. See slide However, the effects of ventilation can be complicated. For example, windows in upper stories may increase the stack effect and therefore increase radon concentrations. Given what we ve just said about ventilation, do you think that windows should be open or closed when you are measuring radon levels when you do the most common test, which lasts only a few days? See slide The correct answer is that windows should be kept closed during short term tests to get the most accurate radon measurement. We ll talk about short term tests and the conditions for measuring radon in more detail a little later. See slide Other weather related factors that affect radon entry include rain, snow, and frost, all of which can seal the soil, preventing radon from escaping into the air and pushing it into the home. Rain can also displace soil gas, pushing it into the home. In fact, heavy rain can cause a sudden rise in indoor radon levels. See slide Lesson 3 7

8 Wind complicates the air pressure around a home. On the windward side, it can raise the air pressure, pushing soil gas into the home on that side. As wind blows across the home, it also creates a suction effect, pulling air from leaks downwind and at the top of the building. If possible, don t measure radon levels during high winds, because the results may not show the typical levels in a home. For greater accuracy, measure during normal wind conditions. See slide Finally, other environmental factors that can affect radon entry include those that seal or cap the soil around a home, such as concrete patios or concrete or asphalt driveways. Their effect is similar to that of rain, snow, or frost on the area around the foundation. See slide To summarize: The main mechanism that brings radon into a home is a difference in air pressure between indoor and outdoor air. Can you name the three main causes of air pressure differences? Correct answers: 1. Temperature differences between indoor and outdoor air 2. Mechanical systems 3. Environmental factors See slide Although air pressure differences represent the primary mechanism bringing radon into a home, there are several other mechanisms. Diffusion is one of them. It can occur even when there are no air pressure differences. Diffusion occurs when radon moves from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. Because the soil or the foundation contains a higher concentration of radon than does the air in the home, radon can diffuse into a home Through holes or cracks in the foundation Through foundation materials such as concrete walls or slabs Lesson 3 8

9 Radon can also diffuse from a source that is far from a home to an area under the home, where it can then be drawn inside by air pressure differences. See slide The third mechanism that brings radon into a home is emanation. Here s how emanation works: Some building materials such as rocks, granite, bricks, and concrete contain uranium or radium. As these radioactive materials decay, radon may be created on their surfaces. That radon may be emitted into the room. The rate of emanation depends on the amount of radioactive materials and the surface area of the materials. Only rarely does emanation increase radon levels. However, it does become relevant when you consider where to place a test device. We ll discuss placement in detail in a later lesson. See slide Note: Click to animate the slide. The fourth mechanism is outgassing, the release of radon gas that has been trapped in water. We ve already discussed how radon can be released into the air when people shower, wash clothes or dishes, flush toilets, or use water for other household purposes. See slide Do you have any questions about the mechanisms that transport radon into a home? Now we need to consider the third requirement: openings or pathways into the home. See slide Some of the pathways by which radon enters a home are natural: Pores or empty spaces in the soil Cracks in the underlying rocks Earthen areas in basements Other pathways are artificial: Openings for utility lines and plumbing Water drainage systems Lesson 3 9

10 Other openings in foundations See slide In terms of radon entry, the important characteristics of a pathway are: The ease with which air moves through the pathway The distance from radium Connections with other air pathways into the home See slide We ve talked about the three requirements for radon to enter a home: 1. A radon source 2. A mechanism to transport radon from the source into the home 3. An opening or pathway in the home that allows radon to enter These factors determine the amount of radon that enters a home. See slide We ve already mentioned that radon levels vary in space: From one geographic area to another From one home to the next Within a home: from one level to another o Radon levels are usually highest in the lowest levels of a home. o If radon levels are higher in upper levels of a home, unusual factors may be the cause and the situation should be investigated. See slide Radon levels also vary in time: From season to season o In the winter, when doors and windows are closed and indoor air is heated, homes exert the greatest vacuum affect, most radon enters, and radon levels are usually highest. From day to day From hour to hour Some of the factors that affect the daily and hourly variation include Air pressure changes Wind speed and direction Indoor and outdoor temperature changes Lesson 3 10

11 Rain, snow, and frost Use of mechanical exhaust systems Somewhat surprisingly, this variation in radon levels does not seem to relate clearly to ventilation rates, probably because the effects of ventilation are quite complicated. Finally, radon levels vary with changes to the home, such as additions. Because radon levels vary, testing must be done over a period of time. See slide When we move on to measuring radon, we ll see that the required procedures are designed to control for factors that we ve discussed in this section: Air pressure differences Ventilation Environmental effects See slide Let s review what we ve covered in this section. First, we explained the importance of measuring the radon level in every home. It is impossible to predict the level in one home on the basis of levels in neighboring homes. Next, we talked about the three requirements for radon to enter a home. What are they? Correct answers: 1. Sources of radon 2. Mechanisms to carry radon into a home 3. Pathways for the radon to travel See slide This slide is also animated. Ask questions and click after learners have answered to show correct answers. The first requirement for radon entry is a source of radon. We talked about three possible sources. Can you name them and identify the most common of those sources? Correct answers: 1. Soil and rock Lesson 3 11

12 2. Groundwater 3. Building materials 4. Soil and rock at the most common sources. The second requirement for radon entry is a mechanism to carry the radon into a home. We talked about four possible mechanisms. Can you name them and identify the most significant one? Correct answers: 1. Air pressure differences 2. Diffusion 3. Emanation 4. Outgassing Air pressure differences constitute the most significant mechanism. The third requirement for radon entry is a pathway into the home. We noted that pathways could be natural or artificial. Can you name the important characteristics of a pathway? Correct answers: 1. Distance from the radon source 2. Ease with which air moves through the pathway 3. Connections with other pathways We noted that the radon level varies in several dimensions. Do you recall what they are? Correct answers: In space In time With changes in a home See slide This illustration summarizes what we have talked about. See slide Imagine that a client asks you how radon enters a home. Assume that the client is an attorney, who has no technical knowledge related to radon. Write a short, simple explanation that you could use to answer this question for your client. Lesson 3 12

13 Be sure to cover: The importance of testing every home for radon Factors that determine the radon level in a home The most common sources of radon The common mechanisms that make radon enter a home The pathways that radon follows into a home Variations in radon levels over space and time Answer the following questions. Is the explanation complete? Is the explanation clear? Does the explanation contain the right level of technical detail for this client? See Handout 3 2, which is a sample explanation. Handout 3 2 is a sample explanation. You can compare it with the explanation that you wrote. Yours does not need to be identical to this handout, so long as it covers the same important information. See Handout 3 3, which summarizes this section. The next handout is a short summary of this section. Check comprehension. See Handout 3 4A. This comprehension check is not graded. Now you re going to see whether you remember the main points that we ve discussed in this lesson. Please answer the questions on handout 3 4A. When you all finish, we ll review the answers together. Review the answers. See Handout 3 4B, the answer key. Lesson 3 13

14 Formatted: Header Measuring radon in residential properties Handout 3 1: Uranium decay series 1 Element Protons / neutrons Radiation emitted Half life on decay Uranium / 146 α + γ 4.5 billion years Thorium / 144 β + γ 24.5 days Protactinium / 143 β + γ 1.2 minutes Uranium / 142 α + γ 240,000 years Thorium / 140 α + γ 77,000 years Radium / 138 α + γ 1600 years Radon / 136 α + γ 3.8 days 1 Source: Environmental Assessment Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Human Health Fact Sheet, August decay series.pdf Lesson 3 14

15 Handout 3 2: Sample summary for hypothetical client Homes with high radon levels have been found all over the United States. Radon can also be a problem in any home old or new, drafty or well sealed, with or without a basement. Even neighboring homes may have very different radon levels. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that all homes be tested for radon. Testing is the only accurate way to determine the radon level in any home. Radon may be present in soil gas, which is always entering your home. There are three requirements for radon to enter a home: 1. A radon source 2. A mechanism to transport radon from the source into the home 3. An opening or pathway in the home that allows radon to enter Radon sources include soil and rocks, groundwater from wells, and sometimes building materials. The main mechanism that carries radon into a home is a difference between indoor and outdoor air pressure. A home acts like a vacuum, sucking in soil gas that contains radon. This air pressure difference can arise from a temperature difference (the stack effect), from the use of mechanical systems such as exhaust fans, and from environmental effects, such as weather conditions. Pathways into the home may be natural (such as cracks in underlying rocks or sandy soil) or artificial (such as utility trenches). Pathways may differ in the ease with which air moves through them, the distance between the radon source and the home, and connections with other pathways. The radon level in a home depends on several factors. The strength of the radon sources: this is the most important factor in determining the level of radon in a home The distance of the radon sources from the home The ease with which radon can be transported into the home The home s ventilation (to a relatively small degree) Environmental factors (such as weather) Radon levels vary in space (from one geographic area to another and from home to home). They also vary in time (from season to season, day to day, and hour to hour). To repeat: The only way to know the radon level in your home is to test. Lesson 3 15

16 Handout 3 3: Summary Every home should be tested for radon. For radon to enter a home, there are three requirements: 1 Radon sources Soil and rock Groundwater Building materials 2 Mechanisms to transport radon into the home Air pressure differences o Stack effect o Mechanical systems o Environmental effects Diffusion Emanation Outgassing 3 Pathways for radon to enter the home Types o Natural o Artificial Characteristics o Ease with which air moves through the pathway o Distance from the radon source o Connection with other pathways Variation in radon levels in a home In space From one geographic area to another From home to home From level to level within a home In time From season to season From day to day From hour to hour With changes in the home Lesson 3 16

17 Handout 3 4A: Check your understanding Select the best answer from the choices below. Circle the correct answer. 1. If two homes are next to each other a. You can assume they have similar radon levels b. You can determine their radon levels using EPA maps c. You must test both homes to determine their radon levels d. You can measure the radon source and its distance from the homes and then calculate their radon levels 2. The most common radon sources in homes are a. Uranium refuse from mines and groundwater b. Rock and soil, groundwater, and building materials c. Rock and soil, reservoir water, and building materials d. Sand, gravel, and shale 3. The main mechanism for radon entry into a home is a. Air pressure difference between indoor and outdoor air b. Emanation c. Diffusion d. High winds blowing radon gas into the soil 4. Match the mechanism of radon entry with its definition. a. Air pressure difference i. Movement from area of higher concentration to area of lower concentration b. Diffusion ii. Difference in indoor and outdoor air pressure c. Emanation iii. Release of trapped gas from water d. Outgassing iv. Emission of gas from a surface by radioactive decay 5. The following factor does not contribute to the radon level in a home a. The strength of the radon sources b. The ease with which radon can be transported into the home c. Weather d. The distance of the home from its neighboring homes 6. The key characteristics of radon pathways are a. Ease of air movement, distance from radon source, and connections with other pathways b. Susceptibility to weather conditions, strength of radon source, and connections with other pathways c. Seasonal variation, temperature sensitivity, and alignment with radon source Lesson 3 17

18 7. One of the following statements is not true: a. Radon levels vary from one home to the next b. Radon levels vary from day to day c. Radon levels vary depending on the number of people in the household d. Radon levels vary depending on whether snow seals the area around a foundation Lesson 3 18

19 Handout 3 4B: Check your understanding Answer key The correct answers are shown in bold. 1. If two homes are next to each other a. You can assume they have similar radon levels b. You can determine their radon levels using EPA maps c. You must test both homes to determine their radon levels d. You can measure the radon source and its distance from the homes and then calculate their radon levels 2. The most common radon sources in homes are a. Uranium refuse from mines and groundwater b. Rock and soil, groundwater, and building materials c. Rock and soil, reservoir water, and building materials d. Sand, gravel, and shale 3. The main mechanism for radon entry into a home is a. Air pressure difference between indoor and outdoor air b. Emanation c. Diffusion d. High winds blowing radon gas into the soil 4. Match the mechanism of radon entry with its definition. a. Air pressure difference ii. Difference in indoor and outdoor air pressure c. Diffusion i. Movement from area of higher concentration to area of lower concentration c. Emanation iv. Emission of gas from a surface by radioactive decay d. Outgassing iii. Release of trapped gas from water 5. The following factor does not contribute to the radon level in a home a. The strength of the radon sources b. The ease with which radon can be transported into the home c. Weather d. The distance of the home from its neighboring homes 6. The key characteristics of radon pathways are a. Ease of air movement, distance from radon source, and connections with other pathways Lesson 3 19

20 b. Susceptibility to weather conditions, strength of radon source, and connections with other pathways c. Seasonal variation, temperature sensitivity, and alignment with radon source 7. One of the following statements is not true: a. Radon levels vary from one home to the next b. Radon levels vary from day to day c. Radon levels vary depending on the number of people in the household d. Radon levels vary depending on whether snow seals the area around a foundation Lesson 3 20

21 Resources Great Lakes Centers for Occupational and Environmental Safety and Health, School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago UIC Radon Mitigation Course: An Illinois Specific Course. Accessed January 20, Kladder, Doug Radon Awareness for Public Service Professionals. Colorado Vintage Companies. Air Check Inc. Last updated December 16, 2002; accessed January 20, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Consumer s guide to radon reduction: How to fix your home. 402 K Revised February. Indoor Environments Division A Citizen s Guide to Radon: The Guide to Protecting Yourself and Your Family from Radon. EPA 402 K Revised May U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry Radon Toxicity. Case Studies in Environmental Medicine. Lesson 3 21

Florida Energy Extension Service

Florida Energy Extension Service Florida Energy Extension Service Radon: The Gas, Threat, Detection, and Control 1 Gary D. Cook 2 THE GAS Radon is a potentially dangerous radioactive gas occurring naturally in the environment. It is one

More information

2001 National Workshop on State Building Energy Codes July th, 2001 Burlington, Vermont

2001 National Workshop on State Building Energy Codes July th, 2001 Burlington, Vermont 2001 National Workshop on State Building Energy Codes July 16-19 th, 2001 Burlington, Vermont A Systems Engineering Approach to the Design of Energy and Resource Efficient Homes Presented By: Mark LaLiberte

More information

Radon Vent Pipe System. Labeling Performance Indicators

Radon Vent Pipe System. Labeling Performance Indicators Section 6 Radon Vent Pipe Labeling Performance Indicators Radon Vent Pipe System Connected after sub-grade system installed Pipe cannot be trapped Provide space in chases Support at each floor level Discharge

More information

Attached Solar Greenhouse Plans for a solar heated greenhouse attached to your home

Attached Solar Greenhouse Plans for a solar heated greenhouse attached to your home Attached Solar Greenhouse Plans for a solar heated greenhouse attached to your home Designed and built by New Mexico landscape architect John Mosely for his own Santa Fe home. The solar greenhouse shown

More information

Chapter 2: Foundation

Chapter 2: Foundation Chapter 2: Foundation Crawlspace [V502.1.2] [V502.1.2] [V502.1.3] Vents. Vents in the crawlspace help keep floor insulation and floor framing dry. Crawlspace vents also reduce the potential for radon buildup

More information

Outdoor Air Pollution. Primary vs. Secondary Air Pollutants

Outdoor Air Pollution. Primary vs. Secondary Air Pollutants Air Pollution Outdoor Air Pollution Primary vs. Secondary Air Pollutants Primary Pollutant a pollutant that is put directly into the air by human activity. Examples: CO, NOx, PM, SOx, VOCs Sources: Electricity

More information

Before You Start Renovating Your Bathroom

Before You Start Renovating Your Bathroom Before You Start Renovating Your Bathroom Renovating your bathroom is a great way to add value to your home both for your family s daily living and for future resale. Before you decide to go ahead with

More information

Keep your home. FREE from DAMP, CONDENSATION and MOULD

Keep your home. FREE from DAMP, CONDENSATION and MOULD Keep your home FREE from DAMP, CONDENSATION and MOULD 1 2 This booklet gives some basic information about the different types of dampness that may affect your home. Condensation is probably the biggest

More information

10 Steps to Save Energy in Your House

10 Steps to Save Energy in Your House 10 Steps to Save Energy in Your House Sealing and insulating your home is one of the most cost-effective ways to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient. You can do it yourself. In this chapter,

More information

Indoor Building Survey and Product Inventory

Indoor Building Survey and Product Inventory Indoor Building Survey and Product Inventory Preparer s Name Date/Time Prepared Preparer s Affiliation Phone No. Purpose of Investigation 1. OCCUPANT: Interviewed: Y / N Last Name: First Name: Address:

More information

CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF ENERGY EFFICIENT CONSTRUCTION

CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF ENERGY EFFICIENT CONSTRUCTION Chapter 1: Overview of Energy Efficient Construction 1 CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF ENERGY EFFICIENT CONSTRUCTION Chapter 1 is a quick reference guide that discusses the key components and features of energy

More information

Water Intrusion Into Buildings Forensic Investigations

Water Intrusion Into Buildings Forensic Investigations Water Intrusion Into Buildings Forensic Investigations How does water flow? Let me count the ways. Major building structural and operational failures are caused by three problems: water, water, and water.

More information

GC2: Components of the Earth System Working Together

GC2: Components of the Earth System Working Together Global Connections: Earth Systems at the Global Scale GC2: Components of the Earth System Working Together Purpose To develop familiarity with interactions among the major components of the Earth system

More information

STEP UP TO THE ENERGY STAR INDOOR AIR PACKAGE. A new opportunity for leading builders to create better environments inside and out

STEP UP TO THE ENERGY STAR INDOOR AIR PACKAGE. A new opportunity for leading builders to create better environments inside and out STEP UP TO THE ENERGY STAR INDOOR AIR PACKAGE A new opportunity for leading builders to create better environments inside and out WHY DOES INDOOR AIR QUALITY MATTER? People are increasingly concerned about

More information

GROUNDWATER. Narrative

GROUNDWATER. Narrative GROUNDWATER Narrative BIG IDEAS: Groundwater. is between the grains of sand and gravel.. moves because gravity works underground just like it does above ground.. is connected to surface water. 4. is part

More information

RADON WELLISUMP BASIN FOR NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION

RADON WELLISUMP BASIN FOR NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION RADON WELLISUMP BASIN FOR NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION Paul V. Jennemann Maryland Radon Laboratory, Inc. Ellicott City, MD ABSTRACT This paper will describe a radon-well/sump-basin (patent applied for) for installation

More information

Of Building Science: From Control Layers to High Performance Enclosures

Of Building Science: From Control Layers to High Performance Enclosures Of Building Science: From Control Layers to High Performance Enclosures Energy Design Conference February 24, 2016 Duluth, MN Patrick H. Huelman Cold Climate Housing Coordinator University of Minnesota

More information

Foundation/Site Work Code Requirements

Foundation/Site Work Code Requirements Q: What is a Foundation Only permit and why did I receive one when I filed for a full Building Permit? All Building Permits for new construction and additions are reviewed for zoning compliance. This review

More information

Solar Passive Techniques: Earth Air Tunnel

Solar Passive Techniques: Earth Air Tunnel International Journal of Engineering Inventions e-issn: 2278-7461, p-issn: 2319-6491 Volume 4, Issue 12 [August 2015] PP: 06-10 Solar Passive Techniques: Earth Air Tunnel Vishal Yardi 1, Utkarsh Jain 2,

More information

THERMAL MASS CHAPTER 6. Understanding thermal mass. Seasonal effects of thermal mass

THERMAL MASS CHAPTER 6. Understanding thermal mass. Seasonal effects of thermal mass CHAPTER 6 THERMAL MASS mud brick concrete block brick The contents of this chapter explain the effect of thermal mass and provide guidelines for its location and extent. Summer and winter effects of thermal

More information

City of Grosse Pointe Park Sanitary Sewer System Inflow and Infiltration Investigation Smoke Testing

City of Grosse Pointe Park Sanitary Sewer System Inflow and Infiltration Investigation Smoke Testing City of Grosse Pointe Park Sanitary Sewer System Inflow and Infiltration Investigation Smoke Testing August 2017 Definitions Sanitary Sewer System Sanitary sewer pipes and pump stations that collect wastewater

More information

by Richard D. Seifert Energy and Building Specialist Cooperative Extension Service University of Alaska Fairbanks

by Richard D. Seifert Energy and Building Specialist Cooperative Extension Service University of Alaska Fairbanks RADON ALASKA EXPERIENCES, COSTS, RESULTS Mitigation by Richard D. Seifert Energy and Building Specialist Cooperative Extension Service University of Alaska Fairbanks RAD-00755 INTRODUCTION Late in 1986,

More information

Evergreen Project Implementation Plan Instructions Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program

Evergreen Project Implementation Plan Instructions Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program Evergreen Project Implementation Plan Instructions Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program The following table provides a brief description of the documentation that will be required of successful LIHTC

More information

Advanced Ventilation for Residential applications FBC Res 2010.

Advanced Ventilation for Residential applications FBC Res 2010. Advanced Ventilation for Residential applications FBC Res 2010. Course Description Review of the Residential Ventilation requirements in the Florida Building Code, Residential 2010. I. Introduction Dean

More information

Radiation

Radiation Radiation 04 Background radiation occurs all around us and is easily measured and controlled. In fact, the radiation risks to those working and living near a mine are very low. June 2016 WWW.ARULTD.COM

More information

TEKS Lesson 7.8C: Effects of Human Activity on Surface Water and Groundwater

TEKS Lesson 7.8C: Effects of Human Activity on Surface Water and Groundwater Class ----- Date -------- TEKS Lesson 7.SC TEKS 7.8e Model the effects of human activity on groundwater surface water in a watershed. and TEKS Lesson 7.8C: Effects of Human Activity on Surface Water and

More information

When R-Value Doesn t Measure Up

When R-Value Doesn t Measure Up C. J. Schumacher B.Tech (Arch.Sci.), B.A.Sc.(Civ.Eng.), M.A.Sc.(Bldg.Sci.) When R-Value Doesn t Measure Up NESEA Building Energy10 Outline Why R-Values? Heat, Temperature & Heat Flow Insulating Materials

More information

Case Studies of Innovative Use of Tracers, Indicators and Field GC/MS for Assessing the Vapor Intrusion Pathway

Case Studies of Innovative Use of Tracers, Indicators and Field GC/MS for Assessing the Vapor Intrusion Pathway AEHS Westcoast Conference Work Shop, March 22, 2017 San Diego, CA Case Studies of Innovative Use of Tracers, Indicators and Field GC/MS for Assessing the Vapor Intrusion Pathway Stack effect & temperature

More information

Radon Mitigation Technology

Radon Mitigation Technology Radon Mitigation Technology Field Exercise Package Includes: Description of Mentoring Program Mentor Selection Criteria Field Exercises Field Exercise Verification Form Course Evaluation This field exercise

More information

Vapor Intrusion Mitigation Methods & Strategies

Vapor Intrusion Mitigation Methods & Strategies Vapor Intrusion Mitigation Methods & Strategies NEWMOA Workshop on Vapor Intrusion Chelmsford, MA April 12, 2006 David J. Folkes P.E. Topics Overview of Mitigation Approaches Commercial Buildings Sub-Slab

More information

DESIGNING COMMERCIAL SUB-SLAB DEPRESSURIZATION SYSTEMS

DESIGNING COMMERCIAL SUB-SLAB DEPRESSURIZATION SYSTEMS DESIGNING COMMERCIAL SUB-SLAB DEPRESSURIZATION SYSTEMS Presented at the 2002 - AARST - 12 th Annual International Radon Symposium in Reno, Nevada Bill Brodhead WPB Enterprises, Inc., 2844 Slifer Valley

More information

EDUCATIONAL EFFORTS TO REDUCE RADON LEVELS IN THE HOME

EDUCATIONAL EFFORTS TO REDUCE RADON LEVELS IN THE HOME Journal of Family and Consumer Sciences Education, Vol. 22, No. 2, Fall/Winter 2004 EDUCATIONAL EFFORTS TO REDUCE RADON LEVELS IN THE HOME Kenneth R. Tremblay, Jr. Colorado State University Michael P.

More information

Crawl Space Moisture Control

Crawl Space Moisture Control Crawl Space Moisture Control Crawl space foundations are found in many homes. Typically, these foundation types are equipped with operable vents designed to provide ventilation for moisture control. Unfortunately,

More information

Crawl Spaces and Basements: Defining the Building Envelope

Crawl Spaces and Basements: Defining the Building Envelope Crawl Spaces and Basements: Defining the Building Envelope Rich Jones: INCAA, Charlie Smith: Kentucky Housing Corporation, Albert McMahon: NYSWDA 1 By attending this session, participants will: Identify

More information

Visible and Invisible Pollutants How do different types of pollutants affect human and environmental health?

Visible and Invisible Pollutants How do different types of pollutants affect human and environmental health? Activitydevelop Visible and Invisible Pollutants How do different types of pollutants affect human and environmental health? Overview Students explore data about the sources and consequences of different

More information

Nuclear Power Plant Incidents

Nuclear Power Plant Incidents Nuclear Power Plant Incidents Find out what could happen to you. If there is a nuclear power plant in your area, contact the plant s community relations officials or contact local, state, or federal emergency

More information

What We Are Hoping For: Learning Goals. Runoff Human Impact o A, B, C. Learning Goals:

What We Are Hoping For: Learning Goals. Runoff Human Impact o A, B, C. Learning Goals: LESSON Exploring: Water in Our Lives Introduce how salt moves into waterways by looking at where our water comes from and how runoff impacts the environment. What We Are Hoping For: Learning Goals Runoff

More information

ASHRAE and Indoor Air Quality

ASHRAE and Indoor Air Quality ASHRAE 62.2-2013 and Indoor Air Quality Weatherize Ohio Conference October 27 29, 2015 The State of Ohio is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Provider of ADA Services Introduction ASHRAE: Why is it needed?

More information

This policy will generally explain the following in regards to the City sewerage collection systems:

This policy will generally explain the following in regards to the City sewerage collection systems: CITY OF SACO POLICY ON SEWER AND STORMWATER BACK-UPS PURPOSE The purpose of this policy is to explain how and why sewer or stromwater backups occur, what to do in the event a homeowner has a backup, and

More information

Inspection Report. 1 of 8

Inspection Report. 1 of 8 Inspection Report Dayvolt's Home Inspections L.L.C. Date&Time of Inspection: 5/9/17, 12:10 PM Inspector's Name: Dustin Dayvolt Building Address: Sample City: State: Zip Code: Type of property inspected:

More information

Fact Sheet #3 Reducing the Risk of Groundwater Contamination by Improving Fertilizer Storage and Handling

Fact Sheet #3 Reducing the Risk of Groundwater Contamination by Improving Fertilizer Storage and Handling Fact Sheet #3 Reducing the Risk of Groundwater Contamination by Improving Fertilizer Storage and Handling N E W M E X I C O FARM A SYST Farmstead Assessment System Fact Sheet #3 Reducing the Risk of Groundwater

More information

INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT

INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT CHAPTER 12 INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT > SECTION 1201 GENERAL 1201.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern ventilation, temperature control, lighting, yards and courts, sound transmission, room dimensions,

More information

Insulating Basements: Part 1 Fundamentals

Insulating Basements: Part 1 Fundamentals The Pennsylvania Housing Research Center Insulating Basements: Part 1 Fundamentals Builder Brief: BB0510 Brian Wolfgang, PHRC Fellow INTRODUCTION The perception of a basement has changed significantly

More information

Knauf Makes It Easy to Insulate

Knauf Makes It Easy to Insulate BI-CL-03 10-06 Knauf Insulation GmbH One Knauf Drive Shelbyville, IN 46176 Sales and Marketing (800) 825-4434, ext. 8300 Technical Support (800) 825-4434, ext. 8212 Customer Service (866) 445-2365 Fax

More information

Manure Storage for Environmental Management Systems

Manure Storage for Environmental Management Systems WiMStor01 MStor Manure Storage for Environmental Management Systems Key: 1)Low Risk 2)Low-Moderate Risk 3)Moderate-High Risk 4)High Risk Location of Manure Storage Are the manure storage facilities in

More information

Summer Indoor Radon Exceeds Winter Indoor Radon

Summer Indoor Radon Exceeds Winter Indoor Radon Proceedings of the Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments, Water and Energy Volume 11 Article 13 January 2010 Summer Indoor Radon Exceeds Winter Indoor Radon Douglas G. Mose George Mason University

More information

Annex A STATEMENT OF WORK Radon Mitigation

Annex A STATEMENT OF WORK Radon Mitigation Annex A STATEMENT OF WORK Radon Mitigation OBJECTIVE Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) requires reduction of the annual radon concentration levels within the noted 15 properties (found on Appendix B)

More information

BEST4 Conference April 13-15, 2015

BEST4 Conference April 13-15, 2015 National Institute of Building Sciences Provider #G168 BEST4 Conference April 13-15, 2015 Design Considerations for Climate Change Paul Totten, Vice President, WSP Alexandra Connor, Project Associate,

More information

Healthy Homes Provisions of Lansing, Michigan Ordinances Extracted from by National Center for Healthy Housing

Healthy Homes Provisions of Lansing, Michigan Ordinances Extracted from  by National Center for Healthy Housing TITLE 6. HOUSING CHAPTER 1460. HOUSING AND PREMISES CODE Selected Provisions Related to Healthy Homes 1460.02. Applicability. (h) Historic Buildings. The provisions of this Code shall not be mandatory

More information

This presentation. Basements: New & Retrofit. Basements Part of the Enclosure. Basements are Changing. Basement functions Basement Performance

This presentation. Basements: New & Retrofit. Basements Part of the Enclosure. Basements are Changing. Basement functions Basement Performance This presentation John Straube, Ph.D., P.Eng Basements: New & Retrofit Energy Efficient, Durable, Healthy Building Science Corporation presented by www.buildingscience.com Basement functions Basement Performance

More information

Property Condition Assessment

Property Condition Assessment Property Condition Assessment Pewaukee, WI 53072 Inspection Date: 1/6/15 Prepared For: Report Number: Prepared By: Shamrock Building Inspection Consultants LLC N29 W29951 Shel-Mar Dr. Pewaukee, WI 53072

More information

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement, 7 th Edition. Chapter 6 Building Construction: Components Inspector II

Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement, 7 th Edition. Chapter 6 Building Construction: Components Inspector II Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement, 7 th Edition Chapter 6 Building Construction: Components Today we will Discuss fire walls, party walls, fire partitions, and curtain walls Discuss roof types and coverings

More information

One and Two Family Additions

One and Two Family Additions One and Two Family Additions An addition to a house, duplex, garage, or an accessory structure requires a building permit prior to performing any construction. Building Department & Permit Office Mon-Fri

More information

1 BASE HOME CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS: TOWNHOMES 5-13-2015 Note: Specifications noted below may change based on selected options. Verify upgrades from the base specifications with the option sheets and

More information

CTD (CONDUCTIVITY-TEMPERATURE-DEPTH)

CTD (CONDUCTIVITY-TEMPERATURE-DEPTH) CTD (CONDUCTIVITY-TEMPERATURE-DEPTH) Related lesson plan Fresh and Seawater Density What is this sensor? CTD is an acronym for Conductivity, Temperature and Depth. However, this is somewhat misleading

More information

Senior Design Project for UNO. Design of the International Studies Building: An Environmental Analysis

Senior Design Project for UNO. Design of the International Studies Building: An Environmental Analysis Senior Design Project for UNO Design of the International Studies Building: An Environmental Analysis Design Intent Implement Passive & Active design strategies in order to make the building: More Energy

More information

PRE-FABRICATED HOUSING

PRE-FABRICATED HOUSING Building Department 200 W. Oak Street 3 rd Floor Fort Collins, CO 80521 970-498-7700 www.larimer.org/building PRE-FABRICATED HOUSING PRE-FABRICATED HOUSING When you are buying a pre-fabricated home, you

More information

Edouard AVANT GROVE U I C U I C. Modern Living Made Easy uichomes.com

Edouard AVANT GROVE U I C U I C. Modern Living Made Easy uichomes.com Edouard Modern Living Made Easy uichomes.com - new construction - 3 stories + full basement - 4 bedrooms - 2.5 baths - 2,380 s.f. call 314.881.2333 or e-mail sales@uicstl.com PLAN NTS DECK 13' 0" X 12'-0"

More information

GUIDELINES FOR SANITARY DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF MILK PRODUCTS PLANTS (rev )

GUIDELINES FOR SANITARY DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF MILK PRODUCTS PLANTS (rev ) Milk and Dairy Food Safety Branch 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 GUIDELINES FOR SANITARY DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF MILK PRODUCTS PLANTS (rev. 10-20-2011) The outline below lists sanitary requirements

More information

TOWNSHIP OF LOGAN 125 MAIN STREET, PO BOX 314 BRIDGEPORT, NJ FAX

TOWNSHIP OF LOGAN 125 MAIN STREET, PO BOX 314 BRIDGEPORT, NJ FAX TOWNSHIP OF LOGAN 125 MAIN STREET, PO BOX 314 BRIDGEPORT, NJ 08014 856-467-3626--- FAX 856-467-9260 Application for Certificate of Occupancy for Change of Occupancy Pursuant to Chapter 119 of the Township

More information

Indoor Air Quality Testing at the Middle River Complex. Indoor Air Quality Testing at the Middle River Complex. For More Information

Indoor Air Quality Testing at the Middle River Complex. Indoor Air Quality Testing at the Middle River Complex. For More Information Indoor Air Quality Testing at the Middle River Complex September 2017 Indoor Air Quality Testing at the Middle River Complex Lockheed Martin has been investigating and, more recently, cleaning up soil

More information

RESIDENTIAL NEW CONSTRUCTION PLAN REVIEW CHECKLIST

RESIDENTIAL NEW CONSTRUCTION PLAN REVIEW CHECKLIST This list is provided as a guide to help you understand the information that must be contained on the construction drawings. This list is not all-inclusive of all building codes but is used as a general

More information

Energy-Efficient Passive House using thermal mass to achieve high thermal comfort

Energy-Efficient Passive House using thermal mass to achieve high thermal comfort Energy-Efficient Passive House using thermal mass to achieve high thermal comfort Loa Andersson Managing Director RLI Byggdata AB rli@termodeck.com Alexander Engström Technical Director RLI Byggdata AB

More information

THE STRATA UNIT May 25, 2008

THE STRATA UNIT May 25, 2008 THE STRATA UNIT May 25, 2008 Over the years, we have been asked time and time again from our experience as a cost consultant and a project manager from both a restoration and renovation point of view What

More information

Radon and the Alberta Building Code 2014

Radon and the Alberta Building Code 2014 Radon and the Alberta Building Code 2014 Presented by: Karin Dumais, B.Sc. President, Radon West Ltd. Director, Canadian National Radon Training Centre www.radonwest.com Ph. 403. RADON OK (403.723.6665)

More information

Planning for Biomed Facility Puts Energy Efficiency Under Microscope

Planning for Biomed Facility Puts Energy Efficiency Under Microscope Planning for Biomed Facility Puts Energy Efficiency Under Microscope Chilled beams, runaround-loop ERV system included May 19, 2014 By DAN VASTYAN, Common Ground, Manheim, Pa. HPAC Engineering Constructing

More information

Directions 1. Activate students' prior knowledge about secondary pollutants. 1 of 10. Activitydevelop

Directions 1. Activate students' prior knowledge about secondary pollutants. 1 of 10. Activitydevelop Activitydevelop Pollutants Making More Pollutants How do pollutants interact with the environment to create more pollution, and what effects do secondary pollutants have on the environment and human health?

More information

The Ashland Project. Total Area: 1,778 Sq.Ft. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage

The Ashland Project. Total Area: 1,778 Sq.Ft. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage The Ashland Project Total Area: 1,778 Sq.Ft. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage The garage and bedroom extend from the front of this three bedroom home, drawing you visually into the entryway. Brick and stucco

More information

Experimental investigation of zero energy office under natural and forced ventilation

Experimental investigation of zero energy office under natural and forced ventilation Experimental investigation of zero energy office under natural and forced ventilation Hussain H. Al-Kayiem 1, Syed I. U. Gilani 1, * and Mahmoud S. Abdalfatah 2 1 Mech. Eng. Dept., Universiti Teknologi

More information

Background. AEM Tier 2 Worksheet Greenhouse Maintenance

Background. AEM Tier 2 Worksheet Greenhouse Maintenance AEM Tier 2 Worksheet Greenhouse Maintenance Glossary Ambient Temperature: The outdoor temperature surrounding the greenhouse. It determines indoor temperature trends. Evaporative Cooling: The introduction

More information

Healthy Buildings 2017 Europe July 2-5, 2017, Lublin, Poland. Research on indoor thermal environment of stilted buildings in Chongqing, China

Healthy Buildings 2017 Europe July 2-5, 2017, Lublin, Poland. Research on indoor thermal environment of stilted buildings in Chongqing, China Healthy uildings 2017 Europe July 2-5, 2017, Lublin, Poland Paper ID 0270 ISN: 978-83-7947-232-1 Research on indoor thermal environment of stilted buildings in Chongqing, China Ya nan Xu 1, Zhenjing Yang

More information

PRESENTED BY: ERIC APPELWICK MN ASSOCIATION OF TOWNSHIPS NOV 17, 2017

PRESENTED BY: ERIC APPELWICK MN ASSOCIATION OF TOWNSHIPS NOV 17, 2017 ONSITE WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS IMPACTS ON LAKES Definitions Regulations Types Operations Birch Point Subordinate Sanitary District System Information PRESENTED BY: ERIC APPELWICK MN ASSOCIATION OF

More information

Passive Solar Building Design Guidelines and Recognition Program

Passive Solar Building Design Guidelines and Recognition Program Passive Solar Building Design Guidelines and Recognition Program EXHIBIT B December 2006 Proposal Prepared by City of Santa Barbara Community Development Department Purpose of These Guidelines These guidelines

More information

Size: length ft., bay width ft., number of bays: Square feet of floor space: Sq. ft. of bench/floor space covered by crops:

Size: length ft., bay width ft., number of bays: Square feet of floor space: Sq. ft. of bench/floor space covered by crops: Greenhouse Energy Conservation Checklist/Audit (Adapted by A.J. Both, Rutgers University, and Paul Fisher, University of Florida from a checklist developed by John W. Bartok Jr., Professor Emeritus, University

More information

LESSON 3 OTHER LAND RESOURCES C H A P T E R 6, C O N S E R V I N G O U R R E S O U R C E S

LESSON 3 OTHER LAND RESOURCES C H A P T E R 6, C O N S E R V I N G O U R R E S O U R C E S LESSON 3 OTHER LAND RESOURCES C H A P T E R 6, C O N S E R V I N G O U R R E S O U R C E S OBJECTIVES Compare renewable and nonrenewable resources. Describe how human activities affect the environment.

More information

6.1 Introduction to Wastewater Issues

6.1 Introduction to Wastewater Issues Section 6: Water Pollution This Section will help you: Understand if you generate industrial wastewater; Understand where your wastewater goes; Make sure you meet requirements for floor drains; Properly

More information

Radon in civil engineering building code, building standards, guidelines for building professionals

Radon in civil engineering building code, building standards, guidelines for building professionals Radon in civil engineering building code, building standards, guidelines for building professionals STUK - Radiation and nuclear safety authority Finland IAEA Regional Workshop, Sofia, Bulgaria Oct 16,

More information

Double Glazed Windows & Doors

Double Glazed Windows & Doors Double Glazed Windows & Doors FormView Profile FormView double glazed windows & doors was created to meet the need for a superior energy efficient window and door system, at an affordable price, without

More information

SpaVault TM Installation Guide for Bullfrog Spas (7-10 x 7-10 x 38 )

SpaVault TM Installation Guide for Bullfrog Spas (7-10 x 7-10 x 38 ) SpaVault TM Installation Guide for Bullfrog Spas (7-10 x 7-10 x 38 ) WARNING - When unpacking SpaVault, DO NOT discard styrofoam pieces, these are not packaging materials. Step 1 Excavation Important:

More information

SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COLLEGE LOW CARBON TEACHING BUILDING TECHNICAL CASE STUDY

SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COLLEGE LOW CARBON TEACHING BUILDING TECHNICAL CASE STUDY SOUTH LANARKSHIRE COLLEGE LOW CARBON TEACHING BUILDING TECHNICAL CASE STUDY PROJECT INTRODUCTION For this project our brief from South Lanarkshire College was a very simple one to design a new eight classroom

More information

White Paper. Geothermal Heating and Cooling

White Paper. Geothermal Heating and Cooling White Paper Geothermal Heating and Cooling The fundamentals of a geoexchange system (geothermal heating and cooling system) are well understood and although many factors need to be considered when designing

More information

CRAWL-SPACE CONSTRUCTION

CRAWL-SPACE CONSTRUCTION CRAWL-SPACE CONSTRUCTION Many basementless houses are built over a crawl space- that is, the grade-level floor is over an excavation which is deep enough to allow a man to gain access to the underfloor

More information

A Design Review of Waterproofing Codes

A Design Review of Waterproofing Codes A Design Review of Waterproofing Codes Section 1807 of Chapter 18 of the International Building Code addresses waterproofing under the section title of Dampproofing and Waterproofing. The section defines

More information

APPENDIX C. Chapter 9B-53 STANDARD FOR MITIGATION OF RADON IN EXISTING BUILDINGS

APPENDIX C. Chapter 9B-53 STANDARD FOR MITIGATION OF RADON IN EXISTING BUILDINGS Chapter 9B-53 STANDARD FOR MITIGATION OF RADON IN EXISTING BUILDINGS 9B-53.001 9B-53.002 9B -5 3.003 9B-53.004 Purpose and Intent. (Repealed) Definitions. Department Activities. Florida Standard for Mitigation

More information

Georgia IS HUMAN ACTIVITY A SUBSTANTIAL CAUSE OF GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE? ARGUMENTATIVE Task: Copyright 2014 by Write Score, LLC

Georgia IS HUMAN ACTIVITY A SUBSTANTIAL CAUSE OF GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE? ARGUMENTATIVE Task: Copyright 2014 by Write Score, LLC Georgia ARGUMENTATIVE Task: IS HUMAN ACTIVITY A SUBSTANTIAL CAUSE OF GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE? Copyright 2014 by, LLC Humans and Global Climate Change The yearly global temperature has been above normal

More information

ACHIEVING HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-UNIT RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: THE OPPORTUNITIES

ACHIEVING HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-UNIT RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: THE OPPORTUNITIES ACHIEVING HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-UNIT RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: THE OPPORTUNITIES CHALLENGES OF MURB PERFORMANCE Energy intensity of multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs) has been marginally increasing

More information

2. All of the following are primary air pollutants except a. carbon monoxide. c. sulfur oxides. b. nitric acid. d. VOCs. ANS: B DIF: 1 REF: 1 OBJ: 1

2. All of the following are primary air pollutants except a. carbon monoxide. c. sulfur oxides. b. nitric acid. d. VOCs. ANS: B DIF: 1 REF: 1 OBJ: 1 Chapter 12 Air MULTIPLE CHOICE 1. What pollutant forms when automobile emissions react with oxygen gas and ultraviolet rays? a. ozone c. radon b. carbon dioxide d. sulfur dioxide A DIF: 1 REF: 1 OBJ: 1

More information

HOUSE REPAIRS & RENOVATIONS BUILDING PERMIT REQUIREMENTS

HOUSE REPAIRS & RENOVATIONS BUILDING PERMIT REQUIREMENTS St. Louis County Department of Public Works Division of Code Enforcement HOUSE REPAIRS & RENOVATIONS BUILDING PERMIT REQUIREMENTS This guide is intended to provide the homeowner or contractor with the

More information

CHECKLIST Inspecting a Garage

CHECKLIST Inspecting a Garage CHECKLIST Inspecting a Garage By Ben Gromicko This section deals with the details of the garage or carport inspection that may be performed. At the end of this section, you shall be able to: describe the

More information

EXTERNAL/SOIL 8 ABATEMENT

EXTERNAL/SOIL 8 ABATEMENT Chapter 8 External/Soil Abatement EXTERNAL/SOIL 8 ABATEMENT In this chapter you will learn about: Protecting yourself on an outdoor or external abatement job; Steps in an external abatement setup job;

More information

Storm Damage Assessment Report For: 1234 Example Street., Houston, TX 77002

Storm Damage Assessment Report For: 1234 Example Street., Houston, TX 77002 Storm Damage Assessment Report For: 1234 Example Street., Houston, TX 77002 Prepared For: Miriam Saliba nspection Date: 9/6/2017 Prepared By: Adam Wells TREC License # 21140 105 E Spreading Oaks Ave, Friendswood,

More information

Sapporo Net-Zero Energy Home Hokkaido, Japan. Description. Setting. Super E Canadian Member. Super E Japanese Member. Super E Case Study

Sapporo Net-Zero Energy Home Hokkaido, Japan. Description. Setting. Super E Canadian Member. Super E Japanese Member. Super E Case Study Sapporo Net-Zero Energy Home Hokkaido, Japan Description The first Super E net-zero energy house was built by the oldest Super E partnership. Tsuchiya Two-by and K. Ito and Associates constructed the very

More information

Sealing a Crawlspace. Close the vents and let a heavy-duty vapor barrier keep moisture, mold and radon out of the living space BY LARRY JANESKY

Sealing a Crawlspace. Close the vents and let a heavy-duty vapor barrier keep moisture, mold and radon out of the living space BY LARRY JANESKY Sealing a Crawlspace Close the vents and let a heavy-duty vapor barrier keep moisture, mold and radon out of the living space BY LARRY JANESKY Dramatic transformation. Proper detailing changed this crawlspace

More information

1. Activate students' prior knowledge about the environmental effects of extracting energy resources.

1. Activate students' prior knowledge about the environmental effects of extracting energy resources. This website would like to remind you: Your browser (Apple Safari 7) is out of date. Update your browser for more security, comfort and the best experience on this site. Activitydevelop Evaluating Natural

More information

EPA S 2015 vapor intrusion guides What do they mean for your facility?

EPA S 2015 vapor intrusion guides What do they mean for your facility? Environmental law alert Nixon peabody LLP July 22, 2015 EPA S 2015 vapor intrusion guides What do they mean for your facility? By J. Timothy Ramsey and Jean McCreary The United States Environmental Protection

More information

FOOTINGS AND FOUNDATIONS

FOOTINGS AND FOUNDATIONS DHI_Book15_C01.qxd 28/05/2003 12:37 Page 3 I P A R T O N E FOOTINGS AND FOUNDATIONS We re going to talk about footings and foundations from a performance standpoint. We re looking to see whether they re

More information

Date Rater Verified. Rater Verified. Slab / Pre-Drywall / Thermal Inspection

Date Rater Verified. Rater Verified. Slab / Pre-Drywall / Thermal Inspection Slab on Grade & Basements: A capillary break is installed on top of all footings Slab / Pre-Drywall / Thermal Inspection A minimum of 4" of clean or washed gravel (0.5" diameter or greater) is placed over

More information

Infrared Inspection Report

Infrared Inspection Report Infrared Inspection Report 716 Glen Oaks Dr., Franklin, TN. David A. Andersen & Associates Building Science Thermographer #33784 TN HI Lic#40 4772 Chester Harris Rd Woodlawn Tennessee 37191 (615)406-6808

More information

EC The Effective Detective : Finding Energy Savings at Home

EC The Effective Detective : Finding Energy Savings at Home University of Nebraska - Lincoln DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln Historical Materials from University of Nebraska- Lincoln Extension Extension 1978 EC78-2051 The Effective Detective : Finding

More information

Macro and Micro Climate Climate

Macro and Micro Climate Climate The following text is taken from University of Strathclyde's Energy Systems Research Unit ESRU's web site (file type '16-Climate.pdf') Macro and Micro Climate Climate The climate of the earth consists

More information