Soil Vapor Intrusion Mitigation

Home » Soil Vapor Intrusion Mitigation

• Vapor Intrusion Mitigation

• The Importance of a Vapor Mitigation System

• The Vapor Intrusion Mitigation Systems We Offer

• Sub-Slab Depressurization (SSD)

• Sump Pit Depressurization Systems (SPDs)

• Sub-Membrane Depressurization Systems

• Pressure Field Extension Testing

• Vapor Pins

• Choose Proper Environmental for Soil Vapor Intrusion Mitigation

Vapor Intrusion Mitigation

Spilled or dumped chemicals can pollute soil and water. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that evaporate into the air. When VOCs evaporate from polluted soil and water, they create underground chemical vapors.

These vapor contaminants can migrate through surface soil and into a nearby building via the foundation or pipe system. This phenomenon, called soil vapor intrusion, negatively impacts indoor air quality. Exposure to VOCs can cause acute health effects, whether over a short- or long-term period.

Don’t hesitate to contact Proper Environmental if you suspect your home or building’s air quality has been affected. Our team can perform critical testing and implement proven mitigation techniques to help you breathe easier.

The Importance of a Vapor Mitigation System

Unlike radon, a naturally occurring compound, humans create and produce harmful VOCs in various activities. The two most common include accidents and industrial processes.

Humans create and produce these VOCs when manufacturing:

Fuels
Paints
Medications
Refrigerants

Further, VOCs are also present in:

Industrial solvents
Paint thinners
Dry cleaning fluid
Fuel
Chlorine water

When these contaminants enter the foundation or basement of your home or building, they pose a significant health hazard. Therefore, you must seek the guidance and skill of a professional to install a vapor intrusion mitigation system. Doing so protects your family, residents, and employees from harm.

The Vapor Intrusion Mitigation Systems We Offer

Proper Environmental is a proud National Radon Defense dealer. Therefore, we have access to superior training and support regarding soil vapor intrusion issues. You can trust our team of highly trained technicians with any of the following vapor intrusion mitigation techniques:

Sub-Slab Depressurization (SSD)
Sump Pit Depressurization Systems (SPDs)
Sub-Membrane Depressurization Systems
Pressure Field Extension (PFE) Testing
Vapor Pins

Sub-Slab Depressurization (SSD)

Sub-slab depressurization (SSD) is a commonly utilized vapor intrusion mitigation technique for existing and new structures. The technology uses a fan-powered vent to draw harmful soil vapors downward rather than upward. Therefore, an SSD system prevents toxic vapors from entering your home or building.

Sump Pit Depressurization Systems (SPDs)

The sump pit depressurization system (SPD) is an excellent option for homes or buildings in areas with a high water table. A PVC pipe connects a fan to your pump pit in the SPD system. This fan simulates a vacuum by collecting and discharging harmful VOCs outside.

Sub-Membrane Depressurization Systems

Although sub-membrane depressurization systems are similar to sub-slab (SSD) methods, they can apply to buildings with crawl spaces. Our technicians place a vapor barrier (membrane) under the floor or directly into the soil. Further, we set one or more suction pits beneath the membrane to ensure no gas flows. Like the SSD method, sub-membrane depressurization systems create a negative pressure beneath the building. As a result, vapors can’t flow upward into your home.

Pressure Field Extension Testing

Pressure field extension (PFE) testing is a diagnostic method used in radon and soil vapor extraction. This soil communication test determines how easily air moves beneath your home or building’s foundation. We also sometimes perform the PFE test to ensure the effectiveness of a recently installed vapor mitigation system.

Vapor Pins

Our professionals install vapor pins, defined as reusable sub-slab gas sampling devices, for diagnostics and annual maintenance. Combining a single metal piece and silicon sleeve eliminates any potential leaking. We install vapor pins to provide a sealable measurement point for annual system maintenance.

Choose Proper Environmental for Soil Vapor Intrusion Mitigation

As members of the National Radon Defense Network, we understand the importance of properly mitigating soil vapor intrusion. We do so by sealing, depressurizing, and communicating all potential entry points of harmful contaminants. The detailed PFE testing we perform ensures your vapor intrusion mitigation system works effectively. At Proper Environmental, we pride ourselves on comprehensive testing, quick turnarounds, accurate reports, and exceptional customer service offerings. Customers across the St. Louis area trust our experienced professionals to install vapor intrusion mitigation systems, and so can you. Schedule an appointment with us today for soil vapor intrusion guidance, testing, extraction, and mitigation. We look forward to assisting you with your indoor air quality needs!