radon prevention – Addressing Moisture, Mold and Radon Gas in Basements and Crawl Spaces With Application of a Deep-Pen
In recent years, the idea of indoor air quality control has become a bigger concern to the basement waterproofing industry. When I began working with the industry over 20 years ago, the idea of basement waterproofing was exclusive to the controlling of and prevention of water seepage and flooding. With homeowners becoming more aware of radon gas infiltration, moisture and mildew, and other soil gases, waterproofers have the perfect opportunity to better serve their customers by addressing such needs.
Musty smells, moisture and radon gas - all common problems in a basement and/or crawl space, are solvable by enacting some of the most basic waterproofing techniques. Improving indoor air quality, beginning from the basement and/or crawl space will impact the air quality of the entire home. Over 50 percent of the air that circulates through the home's living space originates from the basement and or crawl space. When the air quality of the basement or crawl space is poor, chances are, the entire home's air quality is poor or soon will be.
One of the first measures a contractor can do to address such concerns is by applying a sodium based silicate spray onto the basement's walls and floors. Such a spray typically reacts with the concrete's free lime, resulting in the formation of an expanded crystalline structure beneath the surface. The application of a deep-penetrating concrete sealer stops water vapor and radon gas from permeating the porous surfaces. This allows the concrete to become dense, increasing its resistance to various vapors and gases. Such sealants usually can be applied with a low-pressure hand sprayer.
When applying the right sodium based silicate spray, some of the additional advantages may include the reduction of spalling from freeze and thaw cycles; improving a concrete structure's resistance to most soils, acids, oils and salts; and protecting against efflorescence and leaching - specific results will vary pending the type of spray that is applied.
It is recommended to clean the concrete surface prior to application. Any dirt, oil or foreign substances may hinder the effectiveness of the spray. After such a spray is applied, the surface should be flushed with water before drying.
The prevention of moisture and soil gases permeating through concrete surfaces goes a long way in reducing the growth of mold and eliminating the musty smell that often plagues a basement and/or crawl space. Waterproofing contractors have always been called to address immediate water problems for the short-term; with indoor air quality control, contractors can now offer a viable long-term service that provides their customers with the ultimate peace of mind.
Lou Cole is the founder and president of Emecole, Inc., a manufacturer and supplier of formulated materials for the repair of concrete cracks and the waterproofing of basements. For more information on sodium based silicates and indoor air quality control, visit http://www.emecole.com or write to 50 E. Montrose Dr., Romeoville IL, 60446.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Louis_Cole
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