Radon solutions in older homes GR 38
BRE (Building Research Establishment) is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries.
Radon solutions in older homes (GR 38) was written by Chris Scivyer and published by BRE on 2 April 2014.
Radon is a natural, colourless, odourless, radioactive gas formed by the radioactive decay of small amounts of uranium that occur naturally in all rocks and soils. It can move through cracks and fissures in the subsoil and eventually to the atmosphere. Most of this radon will disperse harmlessly, but some will collect in spaces under or within buildings.
For most UK residents, radon accounts for half the annual radiation they receive. Exposure to particularly high levels of radon may increase the risk of developing lung cancer. While it is recognised that the air inside every building contains radon, some buildings in certain areas of the UK might have unacceptably high concentrations unless precautions are taken. South-west England is of principal concern, but high concentrations of radon are also found in many other areas.
This 8-page Good Repair Guide provides guidance for builders and homeowners carrying out works to reduce indoor radon levels in older homes. It describes features found in older properties and explains how commonly-used radon remedial measures can be tailored to suit older buildings, including listed buildings or those located within conservation areas.
GR 38 supplements Good Repair Guides 37/1, 37/2 and 37/3.
Its contents are:
- Background.
- Construction features and their impact upon radon solutions.
- Other issues.
- References.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- BRE articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE Buzz articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE Buzz.
- BREEAM.
- Building Research Establishment.
- Methane and other gasses from the ground.
- Radon protection for new domestic extensions and conservatories with solid concrete ground floors (GG 73 revised).
- Radon protection for new dwellings GG 74.
- Radon protection for new large buildings GG 75.
- Radon.
- Radon: Guidance on protective measures for new buildings BR 211.
Featured articles and news
Government responds to the final Grenfell Inquiry report
A with a brief summary with reactions to their response.
A brief description and background to this new February law.
Everything you need to know about building conservation and the historic environment.
NFCC publishes Industry White Paper on Remediation
Calling for a coordinated approach and cross-departmental Construction Skills Strategy to manage workforce development.
'who blames whom and for what, and there are three reasons for doing that: legal , cultural and moral"
How the Home Energy Model will be different from SAP
Comparing different building energy models.
Mapping approaches for standardisation.
UK Construction contract spending up at the start of 2025
New construction orders increase by 69 percent on December.
Preparing for the future: how specifiers can lead the way
As the construction industry prepares for the updated home and building efficiency standards.
Embodied Carbon in the Built Environment
A practical guide for built environment professionals.
Updating the minimum energy efficiency standards
Background and key points to the current consultation.
Heritage building skills and live-site training.
Shortage of high-quality data threatening the AI boom
And other fundamental issues highlighted by the Open Data Institute.
Data centres top the list of growth opportunities
In robust, yet heterogenous world BACS market.
Increased funding for BSR announced
Within plans for next generation of new towns.