Radon Basements: Why Pennsylvania’s Damp Hurts Lungs

By Franklin Everett Shaw

March 12, 2026

Is your basement silently poisoning you? It’s a chilling thought, but for many Pennsylvania homeowners, especially those in older homes, it’s a very real possibility. Radon, an invisible, odorless gas, is a significant health hazard, and Pennsylvania’s geology, combined with our often-damp basements, creates a perfect storm for elevated radon levels.

This isn’t just another scare tactic. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, and Pennsylvania consistently ranks among the states with the highest radon concentrations. We’re not talking about a slight risk; we’re talking about a potentially life-threatening situation that demands immediate attention.

Let’s get practical. This guide is specifically for Pennsylvania homeowners, particularly those in older homes in counties like Allegheny and Lancaster, where radon levels are known to be elevated. We’ll walk you through testing your basement for radon, understanding the risks, and taking concrete steps to protect your family.

First, understand why Pennsylvania is particularly vulnerable. Our geology, rich in uranium-bearing shale and granite, naturally releases radon gas as these materials decay. This gas seeps into the ground and can enter your home through cracks in the foundation, gaps around pipes, and even through porous concrete.

Pennsylvania’s damp basements exacerbate the problem. Radon is more soluble in water, so damp soil around your foundation can actually draw more radon gas towards your home. The moisture also reduces the effectiveness of natural ventilation, trapping the gas inside.

Now, let’s talk testing. You have two main options: DIY testing kits and professional radon testing services. DIY kits are readily available at hardware stores and online, and they’re a relatively inexpensive way to get an initial reading.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to using a DIY radon test kit:

1. Purchase a short-term radon test kit. These kits typically require you to expose a collection device to the air for 2-7 days.
2. Choose a suitable location in your basement. The ideal location is in the lowest livable level of your home, away from drafts, exterior walls, and direct sunlight.
3. Carefully follow the instructions provided with the kit. This usually involves placing the collection device in the designated location and recording the start and end dates.
4. After the exposure period, seal the collection device and mail it to the lab for analysis. The lab will send you a report with your radon level.

However, DIY kits have limitations. They only provide a snapshot in time, and the results can be affected by factors like ventilation and weather conditions. For a more accurate and reliable assessment, consider hiring a professional radon testing service.

Professional testers use specialized equipment to measure radon levels over a longer period, typically 48-72 hours. They can also identify potential entry points for radon gas and provide recommendations for mitigation.

Here’s what to expect from a professional radon test:

1. The tester will place radon monitors in strategic locations throughout your basement.
2. They will seal windows and doors to minimize ventilation during the testing period.
3. After the testing period, the tester will collect the monitors and analyze the data.
4. You will receive a detailed report with your radon levels and recommendations for mitigation, if necessary.

The EPA recommends taking action if your radon level is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. Even levels between 2 pCi/L and 4 pCi/L warrant consideration of mitigation.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: mitigation. If your radon levels are elevated, you need to take action to reduce them. The most common mitigation method is soil suction, which involves installing a vent pipe and fan to draw radon gas from beneath your foundation and vent it safely outside.

Pennsylvania basements present unique challenges for radon mitigation. Many older homes have stone foundations, which are more porous than concrete and can allow radon to enter more easily. Homes with concrete block foundations can also be problematic, as radon can seep through the blocks and into the basement.

Here’s how mitigation strategies are tailored to common Pennsylvania basement types:

• Stone Foundations: Mitigation often involves sealing cracks and gaps in the stone foundation with a special sealant. A sub-slab depressurization system may also be necessary to draw radon gas from beneath the foundation.
• Concrete Block Foundations: Mitigation may involve sealing the blocks with a sealant or installing a vent pipe inside the block walls to draw radon gas out.
• Concrete Slab Foundations: Sub-slab depressurization is the most common mitigation method for concrete slab foundations. This involves drilling a hole through the slab and installing a vent pipe to draw radon gas from beneath the slab.

Don’t try to DIY radon mitigation. This is a job for a qualified professional. A certified radon mitigation contractor will have the knowledge and experience to design and install a system that effectively reduces radon levels in your home.

Finding a qualified contractor is crucial. Look for contractors certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) or the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP).

Here’s how to find a certified radon mitigation contractor in Pennsylvania:

1. Visit the Pennsylvania DEP website.
2. Search for certified radon service providers in your area.
3. Verify the contractor’s certification status with the DEP or NRPP.
4. Get multiple quotes from different contractors.
5. Check references and read online reviews.

Cost is a significant factor. Radon mitigation systems can range in price from $800 to $2,500 or more, depending on the complexity of the installation.

Fortunately, financial assistance may be available. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) offers a Radon Mitigation Assistance Program (RMAP) that provides grants to eligible homeowners to help cover the cost of radon mitigation.

Here’s how to apply for the Pennsylvania Radon Mitigation Assistance Program:

1. Visit the Pennsylvania DEP website.
2. Review the eligibility requirements for the RMAP.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Submit the required documentation, such as proof of income and radon test results.

Don’t delay. Radon is a serious threat, but it’s a threat you can address. Test your home, understand your risk, and take action to protect your family. Your health is worth it.