Visqueen,
the leading manufacturer of gas protection and waterproofing membranes, has
released a high-performance radon barrier membrane designed specifically for
the environmental challenges of the Irish market.
The
Visqueen Ultimate RadonBlok 400 & 600 barriers draw on the company’s
extensive knowledge and expertise in gas protection to help protect Irish homes
and businesses from the health risks posed by radon.
With its
unique polymer blend, Visqueen Ultimate RadonBlok has twice the impact strength
of typical reinforced radon barriers and its increased flexibility, even in
sub-zero temperatures, making installation easier and preventing issues with
cracking. Both membranes are suitable for use in areas deemed at high risk of
radon gas ingress and are certified by the Irish Agrément Board.
Typically,
traditional radon barrier membranes can be prone to punctures due to weaknesses
in their grid style reinforcement design and can also crack during installation
due to stiffness at low temperatures which greatly reduces their effectiveness.
Long-term
radon gas exposure is the leading cause of cancer in non-smokers and can
accumulate to dangerous levels in buildings. Elevated levels of indoor radon
gas risks particles being inhaled by inhabitants, where the radioactivity
within the lungs can greatly increase the risk of cancer developing. The risk
posed by radon gas in Ireland is significant with Trinity College Dublin
estimating that 10% of the country’s population is exposed to radon levels that
exceed the maximum safe amount.
Ultimate RadonBlok 400 is a taped system & the 600 membrane is a
welded solution. Available in 2m X 25m X 0.4mm (50m2) rolls each are suitable for sealing walls, floors and complex
detailing such as service pipe penetrations and difficult corners.
“More and
more people are becoming aware of radon gas exposure and its potential impact
on health in Ireland”, said Cameron Yates, Visqueen Technical Product Manager.
“Providing a solution to developers and builders that delivers effective
protection alongside being capable of dealing with the real-life challenges of
application, was therefore paramount, and we believe RadonBlok is the ultimate
barrier to protect new builds and homes in Ireland from radon gas.”
In
addition, Visqueen’s established Zedex Damp Proof Course can also form an
integral part of a complete radon protection solution for use over difficult
jointing and brickwork. Zedex functions as a high-performance, radon resistant
damp proof course which is also manufactured to withstand the rigours of
installation. Zedex DPC has exceptional mortar bond properties and
therefore can be used in cavity tray applications and also enjoys Irish
Agrément board certification.
