Preventing Basement Radon and Moisture-Driven Gases

Basements are built below ground, which makes them more likely to be affected by the surrounding soil. The soil around your foundation can hold both water and gases. One of these gases is radon, a radioactive substance that you cannot see or smell. Radon comes from decaying uranium in rocks and can collect in basements, creating a serious health risk. Moisture problems and radon are often connected because both can enter your home through the same cracks and joints in the floor and walls. By fixing dampness, you can also help block harmful gases from getting inside.

The Stack Effect and Gas Entry

Your home works a bit like a chimney. As warm air rises to the upper floors and escapes through the roof or attic vents, it creates negative pressure in the lower parts of the house. This causes the house to pull air up from the ground, which can bring in gases from the soil. When the soil is wet, it puts extra pressure on the foundation and can push gases through tiny openings in the concrete. Preventing gas from getting into your basement is important, and keeping the basement dry helps block these gases. The key is to separate your living space from the soil as much as possible.

Physical Barriers and Ventilation

To stop leaks, you need to seal your foundation. Check for gaps around pipes and the sump pump pit, and fill them with a high-quality sealant. When sealing foundation cracks to keep out radon, use flexible materials that can handle small shifts in the concrete. Installing a vapor barrier, which is a thick plastic sheet placed on the walls or floor, also helps block moisture and gases. Sometimes, sealing alone is not enough to lower radon levels. In that case, you may need a radon mitigation system. This system uses a fan and pipe to pull gas from under the slab and vent it safely above the roof.

Secure Your Home with Spohrs Landscaping

The only way to find out if you have radon is to test for it. The EPA recommends taking action if your radon level is 4 pCi/L or higher. If your test shows a higher reading, repairs are needed. Don’t wait for mold or health problems to develop. At Spohrs Landscaping, our team knows how to manage drainage and soil contact. We can check your property and install moisture barriers to help improve your basement’s air quality. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help keep your home dry and safe.

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