Wie te bellen · Foundation Specialist
High radon levels in basement? Dit is wie je moet bellen
Radon is an odorless, colorless radioactive gas that seeps into homes through cracks and gaps in the foundation where the building contacts the soil. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, responsible for roughly 21,000 deaths per year in the United States alone. The EPA recommends taking action when indoor radon levels reach or exceed 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter). A short-term test kit (2–7 days) provides a screening result, but a long-term test (90+ days) gives a more accurate annual average. The standard mitigation method is sub-slab depressurization: a pipe drilled through the basement slab connects to a fan that draws radon-laden air from beneath the foundation and vents it above the roofline. A foundation specialist or radon mitigation contractor installs the system, seals visible cracks in the slab and walls, and re-tests to confirm levels have dropped below 4 pCi/L. The installation typically costs $800–$2,500 depending on home size and foundation type.
What's going on
How to fix high radon levels in basement
Some "high radon levels in basement" cases look simple, but getting it wrong almost always costs more than calling a pro: hidden leaks, fire risk, code violations, and insurance headaches. A licensed foundation specialist will diagnose the exact cause, use the right professional tools, and stand behind the repair. Most local pros offer free quotes and can visit the same day or the next.
Who to call
Foundation Specialist
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Symptoms to look for
- 01
Short-term or long-term radon test result at or above 4 pCi/L
- 02
Visible cracks in the basement slab or foundation walls that could admit soil gas
- 03
Unfinished or unsealed sump pit without an airtight cover
- 04
Home built in a known high-radon zone (check EPA radon map for your county)
- 05
Persistent musty or damp smell in the basement unrelated to water intrusion
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Who should I call for: High radon levels in basement?
Call a licensed foundation specialist. Foundation Specialists have the specialized training, tools, and insurance to diagnose high radon levels in basement safely and stand behind the fix. Most offer free quotes and can visit the same day or the next.
Can I fix this myself?
Some minor cases can be handled DIY, but most require a licensed foundation specialist to avoid costly rework and safety risks. A free quote takes under a minute.
How fast can a pro come out?
Most foundation specialists offer same-day or next-day visits for non-emergency issues. True emergencies (burst pipes, gas smell, no heat in winter) are typically handled within 1–4 hours.
How much does it cost to fix?
Costs vary by severity and your location. Submit a free quote request to get real pricing from local pros in your area.
What are the signs of: High radon levels in basement?
Short-term or long-term radon test result at or above 4 pCi/L. Visible cracks in the basement slab or foundation walls that could admit soil gas. Unfinished or unsealed sump pit without an airtight cover. Home built in a known high-radon zone (check EPA radon map for your county). Persistent musty or damp smell in the basement unrelated to water intrusion.