Lifetime Environmental Solutions
Vapor Intrusion Mitigation Systems For Multi-Family
Vapor Intrusion Mitigation Systems For Multi-Family Buildings
Vapor intrusion can occur in multi-family buildings such as condos, apartments, duplexes, HUD properties, nursing homes, and dorms. Vapor intrusion occurs when toxic chemicals in the subsurface turn to vapor form and rise up through the soil and enter a building through gaps and cracks in the slab. These toxic vapor forming chemicals can include volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) such as trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), and benzene, or explosive risks including methane, gasoline, and diesel vapors. Buildings with vapor intrusion issues are typically located near current or former dry cleaning sites, metal manufacturers, gas stations, and any other industry that utilizes these types of chemicals.
If high concentrations of toxic vapors are found to be inside of a structure and determined to be detrimental to the health of the occupants inside, actions need to be taken to remedy this. Health effects from vapor intrusion depend largely on the type of chemical and each individual’s health history, however the most common effects include nervous system damage, kidney and liver damage, birth defects, and cancer. Fortunately, harmful vapor intrusion issues can be resolved with the implementation of a vapor intrusion mitigation system. Vapor intrusion mitigation systems are designed to deter rising soil gasses from collecting underneath a building.
What Does Vapor Mitigation Involve?
Vapor intrusion systems use negative pressure to draw the rising vapors out before they can enter the building. There are two main types of vapor mitigation systems which include sub-slab depressurization systems (SSD) and sub-membrane depressurization systems (SMD). The type of system used for each particular vapor mitigation project is largely dictated by the test results, and the construction of the building itself. Aesthetically, these systems look very similar on the exterior as a radon mitigation system does.
Vapor mitigation systems are comprised of PVC, a specially designed in-line fan, and a system monitoring equipment to measure the pressure. Pressure field extension (PFE) testing must be done at each property to ensure that we properly cover the entire footprint of the building to keep the harmful vapors from entering.
Our team of commercial vapor intrusion specialists brings years of expertise in identifying and resolving hazardous air quality issues. We employ advanced barrier and venting techniques to ensure effective, long-term solutions.
Vapor Intrusion Risks
After a building has undergone vapor intrusion sampling to assess potential contamination, the next concern is understanding the health risks associated with chemical vapors in the structure. The severity of health effects depends on the specific chemicals present, their concentration, and the duration of exposure. Contaminants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can pose serious risks, including respiratory issues, nervous system damage, reproductive harm, and even cancer. Identifying the contaminants and their potential impact is a critical step in determining the appropriate mitigation measures to ensure a safe indoor environment.
Most chemical vapors that make it into a structure won’t cause immediate health effects, but over time you may get sick and develop terminal diseases. Certain groups of people are much more susceptible to getting sick or suffering from complications of breathing in chemical vapors. These groups include: pregnant women, children, the elderly, and people who are living with chronic disease or a compromised immune system. It is important to have your building sampled for vapor intrusion and mitigated if necessary by a professional.
Apartments
Rented residential units within a building or complex, offering housing for multiple tenants with shared access to amenities.
Condos
Individually owned residential units within a building or complex, offering shared access to amenities and maintenance services.
Townhouses
Multi-level residential homes that share walls with adjacent units, offering individual ownership with private entrances and outdoor spaces.
Duplexes
Residential buildings divided into two separate units, providing housing for two families or tenants under one roof.
Student Housing
Residential accommodation for college students, offering convenient, community-oriented living spaces near educational institutions.
Assisted Living
Facilities that provide housing, personalized care, and support for seniors who need help with daily activities while maintaining independence.Sub-Slab Depressurization Systems
Sub-slab depressurization is the most common and effective method for vapor mitigation. It works by creating negative pressure beneath the building’s slab to redirect harmful soil gases away from the structure. This involves coring a hole, creating a collection point, and installing a sealed pipe that vents gases safely above the roofline using an in-line fan. Larger or complex structures may require multiple systems for optimal results.
At Lifetime Environmental Solutions, we design and install systems according to EPA, state guidelines, and AARST/NRPP standards, ensuring professional and compliant solutions.
Sub-Membrane Depressurization Systems
Sub-membrane depressurization systems are utilized for properties that have and open dirt or gravel crawlspace, or a structure that includes rooms that are open directly to the soil. SMDS systems are installed with an air tight vapor mat that is placed over the foundation.
Once that vapor mat is tightly sealed as to not allow any rising vapor through, a pipe is sealed to the mat to allow all of the trapped gases underneath to be vented. The rest of the system is similar to the sub-slab depressurization system as the piping simply extends up and out of the building where a fan is installed to vent the vapor above the roofline.
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For A Safe & Healthy Environment
Trust a certified and licensed radon mitigation expert to keep your commercial property safe. Our specialists ensure clean air, protect occupants, and reduce liability risks. Contact us for professional radon testing and mitigation to get a free quote for your business.