How to Limit In-Home Radon

Cover Sump Pit

• 1

  Cover the sump pit with a lid that has a clear viewing panel.

• 2

  Apply silicone caulk all around the lid to keep it from moving. Caulking it makes it airtight and prevents radon escaping.

• 3

  Caulk around each entry point in the lid making them airtight. Wipe off extra caulk with a damp cloth.

Have Water Tested

• 4

  Call your public water company or a private company that offers water testing and request a radon test for your water supply.

• 5

  Take a sample of well water, if you have your own private water supply, and take it to a certified laboratory for testing.

• 6

  Install carbon filters into your piping system. The carbon absorbs the radon particles, removing it from the water.

Seal Cracks

• 7

  Circle all visible cracks in the walls and floor with chalk.

• 8

  Force filler into the cracks. Smooth it with a scraper tool and allow it to harden for about two hours.

• 9

  Check if the filler is dry before sanding it down.

• 10

  Paint the area to seal it.

• 11

  Brush sealant over the sanded area. However, if the basement is in poor condition, prepare to coat the entire wall and floor with sealant to stop radon from entering.