Radon, Basements, and Cancer: A Pennsylvania Warning

By Franklin Everett Shaw

May 12, 2026

Radon. It’s the invisible, odorless gas lurking in many Pennsylvania basements, silently increasing the risk of lung cancer. Ignoring it is like playing Russian roulette with your health, especially if you live in radon hotspots like Lancaster or Pittsburgh. This isn’t fear-mongering; it’s a call to action, a guide to taking control of your indoor air quality and protecting your family.

Let’s cut to the chase: you need to test your basement for radon.

Pennsylvania has a significant radon problem due to its geology. The Reading Prong, a geological formation rich in uranium, stretches across southeastern Pennsylvania, releasing radon as uranium decays. This makes areas like Lancaster County particularly vulnerable. Pittsburgh, with its older housing stock and soil composition, also faces elevated radon levels.

First, understand the different types of basements. Finished basements require different testing strategies than unfinished ones. Slab-on-grade foundations present unique challenges for mitigation.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to DIY radon testing, tailored for Pennsylvania homeowners:

Choose a Testing Kit: Purchase a short-term radon test kit from a reputable source. Look for kits certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). These kits are readily available online or at hardware stores.
Prepare the Basement: Close all windows and exterior doors for 12 hours before starting the test. This creates a closed-house condition, allowing radon levels to stabilize. Don’t operate fans that bring air in from outside.
Placement is Key: Place the test kit in the lowest livable area of your basement. For unfinished basements, this is usually the center of the room. For finished basements, choose a frequently used room, away from drafts, exterior walls, and direct sunlight.
Follow Instructions Precisely: Each kit comes with specific instructions. Read them carefully and follow them to the letter. This includes the duration of the test (usually 2-7 days) and how to seal and return the kit.
Send the Kit for Analysis: Mail the completed kit to the lab specified by the manufacturer immediately after the testing period. Prompt analysis ensures accurate results.

Now, let’s talk about the costs. DIY radon test kits typically range from $20 to $50. This includes the cost of the kit and the lab analysis.

What if your test comes back positive? The EPA recommends mitigation if radon levels are 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. Even levels between 2 and 4 pCi/L warrant consideration of mitigation.

Here’s where professional radon mitigation comes in.

A radon mitigation system typically involves installing a vent pipe and fan to draw radon gas from beneath the foundation and exhaust it outside. This is called sub-slab depressurization.

The cost of radon mitigation in Pennsylvania varies depending on the type of foundation, the size of the house, and the complexity of the installation. Expect to pay between $800 and $3,000.

Here’s a breakdown of factors affecting mitigation costs:

Foundation Type: Slab-on-grade foundations often require more extensive mitigation efforts than basements with crawl spaces.
Soil Permeability: Dense clay soils can make it more difficult to draw radon gas from beneath the foundation, increasing the cost.
System Complexity: Houses with multiple foundation types or complex layouts may require more elaborate mitigation systems.

DIY mitigation is strongly discouraged. Radon mitigation requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Improper installation can be ineffective or even create new problems.

Here’s why you should hire a professional:

Expertise: Certified radon mitigation professionals have the training and experience to design and install effective systems.
Equipment: They have access to specialized equipment, such as manometers and smoke pencils, to ensure proper system operation.
Warranty: Most professionals offer warranties on their work, providing peace of mind.

Pennsylvania has specific regulations regarding radon testing and mitigation. The Pennsylvania DEP maintains a list of certified radon testers and mitigators. Always choose a certified professional.

Here’s how to find a certified professional:

Visit the Pennsylvania DEP Website: The DEP website has a searchable database of certified radon professionals.
Verify Certification: Ensure the professional’s certification is current and valid.
Check References: Ask for references from previous clients and contact them to inquire about their experience.

Common mistakes homeowners make include improper test placement, failing to maintain closed-house conditions, and attempting DIY mitigation. Avoid these pitfalls by following the instructions carefully and hiring a qualified professional.

Let’s consider a real-world example. A homeowner in Lancaster, PA, tested their basement and found radon levels of 6 pCi/L. They contacted a certified mitigation professional who installed a sub-slab depressurization system. Post-mitigation testing showed radon levels below 1 pCi/L, significantly reducing their lung cancer risk.

Another scenario: A Pittsburgh homeowner with a slab-on-grade foundation discovered elevated radon levels. The mitigation professional installed a system that involved sealing cracks in the slab and creating a suction point beneath the concrete. This effectively reduced radon levels to acceptable levels.

Radon is a serious health hazard, but it’s also a manageable one. By testing your basement and mitigating if necessary, you can protect your family from the dangers of radon exposure. Don’t delay; take action today. Your health is worth it.

Remember to consult the Pennsylvania DEP for more information and resources. They offer valuable guidance and support for homeowners concerned about radon.

Finally, consider this: radon mitigation isn’t just about protecting your health; it can also increase the value of your home. A radon-free home is a more attractive selling point to potential buyers.