How to Guard Against Radon

Check Radon Levels

• 1

  Search a U.S. government-approved radon map to see what level of the gas exists in your area.

• 2

  Install a radon testing kit in your home. If the level of emission is very low, further precautions may not be necessary.

• 3

  If the detector shows a measurement of 4 pCi/l or more, then take steps to reduce the presence of radon. The Environmental Protection Agency advises that there is no such thing as a safe level of radon.

Cover Sump Basin

• 4

  Place a cover, with a viewing window, over the sump pump basin.

• 5

  Apply caulk sealant around each exit in the cover, rendering them impenetrable to radon.

• 6

  Squeeze silicone caulk all around the edge of the cover to secure it and keep it airtight.

Seal All Cracks

• 7

  Examine every inch of the basement to find where the leaks are. Check walls and floors for fine cracks. Radon will seep through the tiniest fissures, so use a magnifying glass if needed. Mark visible cracks with colored chalk.

• 8

  Replace window frames if they are in poor condition. Old wooden frames likely have splits and cracks, that let radon seep through. Close gaps by applying filler around the casing.

• 9

  Press the filler into the cracks and smooth it over. Do the same for gaps around piping. Let the filler dry.

• 10

  Sand down the filled areas with n electric sander or sandpaper.

• 11

  Dust then paint all sanded areas.

• 12

  Apply a good quality sealant to all painted and sanded surfaces. Consider covering all walls and floor with sealant, to cover cracks not visible to the naked eye.

Test Water Supply

• 13

  Contact your public water supplier and request a water test for the presence of radon.

• 14

  If you have a private water supply, find a certified laboratory that will perform radon tests on wells. Groundwater flowing into a well is more likely to contain radon from the surrounding soil.

• 15

  Install a carbon filter inside your water system. The carbon will attract radon gas particles and ensure that the water flowing from shower-heads and faucets is free of radon.